Blaze Church: Recent Episodes
Blaze Church
We exist to blaze the way for people to know God, find freedom, discover purpose, and make a difference! Visit us at www.blazechurch.org
Goodness is more than doing good things—it is becoming the kind of person whose character reflects the goodness of God. Through the story of the rich young ruler, Jesus reveals that goodness is not measured by comparison or achieved through moral effort, but is found in God's perfect character. The good news of the gospel is that Jesus accomplished what we never could, offering us forgiveness, new life, and the gift of His Holy Spirit. As we follow Jesus, the Holy Spirit transforms us from the inside out, producing a life that increasingly reflects the goodness of God for the benefit of others.
When the Bible talks about the fruit of the Spirit, patience isn't simply learning to wait longer. It's learning to have a longer fuse. In this message, we discover that biblical patience is the Spirit-produced ability to absorb an offense without retaliation. As we experience God's incredible patience toward us, our hearts begin to change, making forgiveness possible and transforming the way we respond to the people who hurt us.
Everyone wants peace, but why does it always seem just out of reach? We tell ourselves, "I'll have peace when..."—when the bills are paid, the diagnosis comes back clear, the kids are okay, or life finally slows down. But the Bible offers a different kind of peace.
Discover how the gospel frees us from guilt over yesterday, fear about today, and uncertainty about tomorrow through the powerful truths of justification, sanctification, and glorification. When we trust what Jesus has already done, what He is doing, and what He has promised to do, the Holy Spirit produces a peace that no circumstance can take away.
Can joy really exist in the middle of suffering? In Part 2 of The Good Life, we discover that biblical joy is far deeper than happiness. Happiness comes and goes with our circumstances, but the joy Jesus gives is a lasting fruit of the Holy Spirit. Through Scripture, we'll see where joy begins, how it remains through life's hardest seasons, and how it overflows to impact others. If you've been searching for something more permanent than happiness, this message is for you.
What does the "good life" really look like? Our culture says it's found in what you have, but Jesus says it's found in who you're becoming. In the first message of our series, The Good Life, we discover that love isn't something we manufacture—it's the first fruit the Holy Spirit produces in a life surrendered to Christ. As we explore Galatians 5 and 1 John 4, we'll learn how God's love changes us from the inside out and answers one life-changing question: What does love require of me?
What happens when life leaves you stuck on the mat? In this Summer Kickoff message, we’re reminded that the church exists to carry people to Jesus when they can’t get there on their own. Like the four friends in Mark 2, we’re called to grab a corner, remove barriers, and do whatever it takes to help others find healing and hope. You don’t need to have it all together. Jesus meets you right where you are.
What makes a man? In a culture confused about masculinity, God's Word offers a clear answer. Looking at David's greatest failure, we'll see how boys avoid responsibility, follow their appetites, and hide their sin. But through the grace of Jesus, men are called to embrace responsibility, exercise self-control, confess their failures, and build God's Kingdom instead of their own sand castles.
When was the last time you truly stopped? In this final This Isn’t Working message, we learned that Sabbath isn’t just a day off—it’s God’s gift of rhythm and renewal. We’re invited to stop, rest, delight, and worship. In a culture obsessed with filling every empty space, Sabbath reminds us that our worth isn’t found in productivity but in God’s presence. Stop striving—Jesus Himself is your true rest.
We live in a world of excess. Every craving can be satisfied instantly. Every desire can be fed immediately. But Jesus taught that true freedom isn't found in saying yes to ourselves—it's found in learning to say yes to God. In this message, we explore the forgotten practice of fasting. Discover why Jesus expected His followers to fast, how fasting helps us reorder our desires, and why the goal of fasting isn't to get more from God—but to give more of ourselves to Him.
Shame has a way of making us hide. We isolate, pretend we’re fine, and carry struggles alone — but that way of living isn’t working. In this Pentecost Sunday message, we look at Peter’s journey from denying Jesus in shame to standing “with the eleven” filled with boldness and purpose. Through Peter’s story, we discover that Jesus doesn’t abandon ashamed people — He restores them into community. If you’ve been hiding, struggling alone, or feeling disconnected, this message will challenge you to step out of isolation and into the kind of Spirit-filled relationships where healing, encouragement, and freedom can happen. You were never meant to follow Jesus alone.
In a world where everything feels more expensive and financial pressure keeps rising, many people feel like generosity is impossible. But what if the problem isn’t just lack of resources — what if we’ve been following a financial system that simply isn’t working? In this message, “God Doesn’t Want A Tip,” Pastor Keith explores God’s plan for generosity through three simple questions: When should I give? How much should I give? And why should I give? Discover how biblical generosity is not about guilt or pressure, but trust, worship, and becoming more like Jesus.
In a world full of noise, distraction, and nonstop schedules, Jesus invites us into a different rhythm: solitude. Through intentional moments of quiet with God, we learn to slow down, confront the lies shaping us, hear God’s voice through Scripture, and experience His presence. Solitude isn’t escape—it’s making space to be filled by God so we can live, love, and lead from a healthy soul. Ultimately, Jesus invites every weary person to come to Him and find true rest.
Why does sharing our faith feel so difficult? In this message, we discover that while the definition of evangelism is simple—sharing good news—the practice has often become confusing and uncomfortable. Jesus invites us into a better way. Through the picture of salt and light, we learn that being a witness isn’t about pressure or perfection—it’s about living differently, loving people well, and speaking clearly when the moment comes. When we embrace this rhythm, our lives begin to create curiosity, spark conversations, and ultimately point people to God.
In a world that tells us to focus on ourselves, Jesus shows us a completely different way. In this message, we discover that serving isn’t optional for followers of Jesus—it’s essential. Because Jesus served us by giving His life, we now have both the responsibility and the opportunity to serve others. And when we do, we don’t lose—we gain purpose, joy, and get to be part of a greater harvest of lives being changed. If life feels full but unfulfilled, maybe the missing piece isn’t more for you… it’s giving your life away for others.
We’re more informed than ever—but also more anxious, confused, and overwhelmed. What if the issue isn’t that we’re not searching for truth, but that we’re searching in the wrong places? In this message, discover how Jesus uses Scripture to bring clarity, renew your mind, and reignite your heart through a simple daily rhythm: read it, meditate on it, study it, and memorize it. It’s time to stop looking everywhere else for truth and start letting God’s Word come alive in you again.
Have you ever felt like life just isn’t working—like you’re doing all the right things but still feel empty? In this message from John 15, we explore how Jesus invites us into a better way to live—not by trying harder, but by staying connected to Him. When we abide in Jesus, we discover our true identity, grow in maturity, and experience real fullness and joy. This message will challenge you to stop striving and start abiding.
What if it’s not too late for your life to change? In John 11, we meet three people in three different seasons—delay, despair, and death. And in every situation, Jesus reveals something powerful: He is the resurrection and the life. Whether you feel stuck waiting, overwhelmed with hopelessness, or spiritually empty, this message will help you see how the resurrection power of Jesus brings revival to every area of life. This Easter, discover how Jesus doesn’t just make bad people good—He makes dead people alive.
What if Jesus isn’t who you expected… but better than you imagined? On Palm Sunday, the crowd welcomed Jesus as King—waving palm branches and shouting “Hosanna!” But they were really cheering for the kind of Jesus they wanted. In this message, we explore John 12 and John 14 to see how people projected their own version of truth onto Jesus—while He came to reveal something far greater. He didn’t come to be our way… He came to be THE way, the truth, and the life. If you’ve ever wrestled with disappointment, confusion, or unmet expectations in your faith, this message will challenge and encourage you to see Jesus for who He truly is. He’s not the King we expect… He’s the Savior we need.
Are you trying to lead your own life or following the Good Shepherd? In this message, we’re reminded that Jesus doesn’t just watch over us—He knows us, leads us, and laid down His life for us. In a world full of “hired hands” and competing voices, His voice brings peace and purpose. Stop striving, surrender control, and let Him lead. You are fully known, deeply loved, and never alone.
Ever feel like no matter what you achieve, fix, or improve… it’s still not enough? In John 6, Jesus makes a bold claim: “I am the Bread of Life.” After feeding thousands, He tells the crowd they’re chasing the wrong thing — and most of them walk away. This message explores why success, religion, and even self-improvement can leave you spiritually hungry — and what it really means to find lasting satisfaction.
In the opening message of our See Jesus series, we look at John 4 and the unexpected introduction of Jesus as the great “I AM.” Instead of revealing Himself to a priest or religious leader, Jesus declares His identity to a Samaritan woman with a complicated past. Through loving “gospel surgery,” He confronts her sin, exposes her thirst, and offers her living water. The Living Water later became thirsty on the cross so that we could be fully satisfied in Him. Are you drinking from wells that cannot satisfy? Come and see Jesus.
Conflict is inevitable in every relationship, but destruction isn’t. In this message, we learn from James 1:19–21 how to fight for our relationships, not with each other, by listening carefully, guarding our words, and handling anger God’s way. Discover how the gospel brings redemption even into our most difficult conflicts.
Marriage was never meant to carry the weight of being your savior. In this message from the Built to Last series, Pastors Keith and Amy explore how connection in marriage flows from a deeper connection with Christ. Learn how covenant, love, intimacy, and consistent care create lasting connection—and how the gospel restores what feels broken.
Marriage doesn’t begin with feelings—it begins with covenant. In the opening message of Built to Last, we explore why marriage matters according to God’s design. While culture often views marriage as casual or contractual, Scripture reveals marriage as a sacred covenant meant to reflect the faithful love of Christ for His Church. Through Jesus’ teaching and Paul’s words in Ephesians, we see that marriage is more than a relationship—it’s a gospel picture. This message speaks hope to singles, clarity to those living together, encouragement to the married, and grace to the divorced, reminding us all that Jesus is the true Bridegroom who never breaks covenant.
In a world that constantly pressures us to compromise, how do we remain faithful to Jesus? In Living With Conviction, we discover that worship is more than singing; it’s allegiance. Using Daniel 3, we see how conviction is the key to continuing to worship Jesus in a “bow down” culture. Learn how settled obedience, trust in God’s power, and confidence in His presence enable us to stand firm; even when the fire is hot.
Culture is constantly trying to name us, but only God gets the final word. In this sermon from Daniel 1, we learn how Daniel remained faithful in Babylon by living from a clear identity in God. This message will help you recognize false substitute identities, engage culture with wisdom, and live resolved as a follower of Jesus.
We don’t usually forget because we want to; we forget because we never stop long enough to remember. In this sermon, we explore the night Jesus was born and Mary’s intentional decision to treasure what God was doing despite the noise and movement around her. Through Luke 2, we’re reminded why remembering God’s work strengthens our faith and renews our hope.
This Christmas, we’re reminded that God’s invitation to know Jesus is for everyone. Through the story of the shepherds, we see that belonging isn’t based on our credentials but on God’s grace. The Light of the world has come, and each of us is invited to respond; will we reject or accept Him?
The Christmas season magnifies our longing for hope, meaning, and purpose. In this sermon, we explore how God used a star to draw pagan astrologers, how the Scriptures pointed them to truth, and how encountering Jesus transformed their hearts. If you’ve ever felt like you’re searching for something more, this message will encourage you and show how God is guiding you toward the Savior.
Welcome to Week 1 of our new series, "The Cast of Christmas"! In a world addicted to instant gratification and "Amazon Prime" timing, waiting on God can feel impossible. Join Joe Caiati as we explore the story of Zechariah—a faithful priest who slipped into spiritual auto-pilot after years of disappointment and silence. If you feel weary, cynical, or like your prayers have hit a ceiling, this message is for you. Discover how God is often working in the silence to do the miraculous, why His timing is always perfect, and how you can find the courage to hope again this Christmas season.
What if every person you passed was a buried miracle? 🌍 This powerful message reminded us to be treasure seekers—people who notice the unnoticed and call out beauty in the broken. From the heartbreaking realities in South Africa to the kids right here at Blaze, Jesus calls us to see, serve, and speak life. 💛 Don’t just walk past a life God planted. Lean in, ask, give, love—because miracles are everywhere if we’re willing to look.
If prayer has ever felt confusing or intimidating, this message will bring clarity and confidence. We look at the way Jesus prayed and discover how following His example can reshape our daily rhythms. This is an invitation to slow down, connect with the Father, and make prayer your first response instead of your last resort.
Generosity is part of following Jesus. Looking at 2 Corinthians 8–9, we see that generosity isn’t about circumstances — it’s an act of worship rooted in the Gospel. As we give faithfully and consistently, God uses our generosity to bless others, strengthen the church, and advance the mission of Jesus. This message calls us to be generous like Jesus and to step into the joy of giving.
How does Jesus view children? He welcomes them, teaches through them, and protects them. 👶💛 In this WWJD message, we’re reminded that the next generation isn’t a distraction—they’re the mission. Jesus calls us to value and invest in kids with intentional love, humility, and care. At Blaze Church, we don’t just tolerate the next generation—we bless them. 🙌 So, what would Jesus do with children? He’d say, “Let them come to Me.”
What does it mean to go all in with Jesus? In a world where commitment is optional, Jesus models full allegiance to God — and invites us to do the same. Baptism isn’t just a symbol; it’s a bold declaration that you belong to Him. Whether you’re exploring faith or ready to take your next step, this message will challenge and inspire you to live with no turning back.
Temptation is real — but so is your weapon. In this message from our WWJD series, we discover how Jesus used Scripture to overcome Satan and how we can do the same. Temptation isn’t random — it follows a pattern. But when we know God’s Word, we can stand in God’s strength. Learn how to study the Bible practically, rely on the Holy Spirit, and follow the One who overcame for us: Jesus.
Are you too busy to rest? 😩 Jesus wasn’t. In WWJD: Rhythms of Rest, we learned that rest isn’t weakness—it’s worship. Jesus invites us to real renewal, not just a break. Rest with Him means responding to His invitation, experiencing His presence, surrendering to His plan, and trusting His finished work. ✝️ You don’t rest because everything’s done—you rest because He finished the work. Stop striving. Start trusting. Sabbath starts with surrender.
This week, we launched our new series, WWJD?—not just to admire how Jesus lived, but to learn how to live like Him. We began by asking: What would Jesus do when it comes to grief?
In John 11, Jesus loses a close friend—Lazarus. He doesn’t ignore the pain or rush past it. Instead, He walks straight into the moment with patience, compassion, and truth. He weeps, He listens, He comforts. He reminds us that grief and faith can coexist. And then, He reveals our true hope: “I am the resurrection and the life.”
Like Jesus, we are invited to grieve honestly, wait patiently, cling to hope, and stay close to the Father. He meets us in our sorrow—not from a distance, but right in the middle of it.
Missed Sunday? Catch up on this week’s message from our WWJD? series — all about finding hope and next steps when grieving loss. Read the sermon notes here:
Daily DevotionalGrief Resources
Blaze Church celebrates ten years of God’s faithfulness and the faithful leadership of Pastors Keith and Amy. From Lamentations 3 we remember His mercies are new every morning. In 2 Timothy 2, Paul calls us to live as a surrendered soldier, a disciplined athlete, and a patient farmer—surrendering fully, training consistently, and waiting faithfully. Our pastors have modeled this for a decade. Looking back with gratitude, we look ahead with faith. Our faithfulness flows from Jesus, the perfectly faithful One.
Blaze Church is a family with values that reflect the heart of Jesus. Our seven values—Jesus Over Everything, Every Person Matters, Always Do Your Best, Go Low, I Have a Next Step, Generosity Is Our Privilege, and Life Is Better Together—shape who we are and how we live. Like the early church in Acts 2, when we embrace these values, God adds to His family daily. Together we shine His light and build a culture worth reproducing.
Have you ever seen someone in great need and wondered, "God, why don't you do something about this?" In this message, Pastor Biju challenges us with this thought: "What are YOU doing about it?" When we come to know Jesus as Lord and Savior, we are filled with God's Spirit, and the goodness God puts in us is waiting to be given to others! You can be the answer to changing your world, and it starts with knowing God and His purpose for your life!
At Blaze Church, we believe the way we fulfill our vision is by living the pathway God has given us. In Ephesians 1, Paul prays that we would know God, find freedom, discover purpose, and make a difference. This is more than a church strategy—it’s God’s plan for every believer, and it’s the mission that keeps us moving toward His vision.
At Blaze Church, we believe lost people matter to God, so they matter to us. In Luke 19, Zacchaeus looked successful but felt empty—until Jesus saw him, called him by name, and brought salvation to his home. His life was completely transformed. That same Jesus came to seek and save you. If you feel lost, He’s looking for you. And if you’ve been found, He’s sending us out together to help others find their way home.
This message explores what it means to be an adopted child of God: a true son/daughter, fully part of His family, and having the same relational status as Jesus! That’s the heart of the Gospel. Just as an adopted child is chosen, pursued, and given a new name and identity, God has done the same for us through Jesus. He planned before the world began to bring us into His family. How He loves us! Our adoption cost everything—Christ’s blood shed for us on the cross. Through Him, we are restored in our relationship with God and can call Him "Father". In response, we live with gratitude, pursue deeper relationship with our Father, and invite others into His family!
Jesus is at the door, knocking. Not to shame, but to draw us close. He asks three questions. “Where are you?” Step out of hiding and come near. “Is God able?” Trust Him with every room of your life and let faith reset your perspective. “What do you want?” Say it to Him. He asks not for information but to awaken expectation. Our first desire is simply to be with Jesus. In His presence we find the greatest provision! As we answer, shame loses power, direction becomes clear, and hope rises. Open the door and say yes to Jesus!
What makes a church… a church? It’s not the building—it’s the people. Acts 2 shows us the early church wasn’t built on walls but on devotion: to God’s Word, to each other, to the table, and to prayer. This isn’t a moment—it’s a movement. And even though Blaze Church is portable now, we’re still the Church. As we stay devoted, we’ll see awe, unity, joy, growth, and salvation. This is Church. Let’s be it—right here, right now.
What kind of soil is your heart? 🌱 In a powerful message at Blaze Church, Rachel Edwards—Campus Pastor at Elevation Church Concord—challenged us through Luke 8 to scatter seed and let God grow it. Whether your heart is hard, rocky, or full of thorns, the Holy Spirit wants to work the ground. Serve in love, stay consistent, and let God do the deep work. 🧡 Stay in step with Jesus—He’s got rest ready for you.
What do you turn to for comfort when life gets hard? In Psalm 34, David invites us to taste and see that the Lord is good—even in trials. Our comforts often fail us, but God never does. True satisfaction is found not in ease, but in experiencing His presence. Jesus, the Bread of Life, meets us in our pain and fulfills every promise. Today, we’re invited to seek Him, trust Him, and remember His goodness through communion.
What do you do when life feels uncertain and out of control? Psalm 46 reminds us that God is great—offering protection in chaos, provision in pressure, presence in pain, and power over all things. Instead of striving, we’re invited to practice stillness and trust. Through simple rhythms like silence, prayer, and surrender, we grow in our awareness of His greatness. This psalm calls us to pause, reflect, and worship—Selah—and release the burden of control to the One who truly holds it all.
In The Heavens Declare, the first message in the Psalms of Summer series, we explore Psalm 19 and discover that God is glorious, so we don’t have to fear others. Through the beauty of creation and the power of Scripture, God reveals Himself to us and invites us to respond with repentance. David shows us that the fear of the Lord frees us from the trap of people-pleasing and the idol of approval. Ultimately, God’s revelation leads to redemption through Jesus—the Word made flesh—who was rejected so we could be accepted. When we see His glory, we live in true freedom.
Have you ever caught yourself talking about someone instead of talking to them? This message, rooted in James 3 and a scene from Grease, confronts the subtle but serious sin of gossip. Our words hold power—they can either heal or harm. We’re called to speak life, not spread rumors. With the help of the Holy Spirit, we can develop self-control, repent where needed, and choose words that build others up and point them to Jesus.
In a world obsessed with image and performance, it's easy to pretend, perform, and conform to be accepted—just like Sandy and Danny in Grease. But God doesn’t want a polished version of you—He wants your heart. In Romans 12:1-2, we’re called not to conform to the world’s patterns but to be transformed by renewing our minds. You don’t need to fix yourself before coming to Jesus—He meets you where you are and transforms you from the inside out. You are not your past or your performance. You are God’s beloved, made new through Christ. Drop the mask. Live free.
Lust promises love but leaves devastation. This message traces the tragic story of Amnon and Tamar to reveal how lust distorts love, seeks validation, demands control, and ultimately brings shame. It doesn’t stay private—its ripple effects harm others and even future generations. Yet, through David’s repentance in Psalm 51, we see that God doesn’t reject the broken. He restores them. For anyone trapped in lust or wounded by it, Jesus offers healing, cleansing, and redemption.
Gluttony isn’t about food—it’s about the heart. Like Esau, we often trade what matters most for what satisfies in the moment. But Jesus, the Bread of Life, offers lasting satisfaction and the power to overcome our cravings. Today’s message invites you to examine what’s ruling your appetite and choose dependence on Christ instead. Let food point you to worship, not control you.
Greed whispers that more possessions will bring security. But Jesus warns, “Watch out!” because life doesn’t consist in an abundance of possessions. In Luke 12, He tells of a man whose wealth made him feel secure but left him empty before God. True security comes not from stuff but from trusting Jesus. To silence greed’s whisper, we live simply, manage wisely, remember eternity, trust God’s provision, and practice generosity. Jesus invites us to lasting security in Him.
What if the greatest threat to your faith isn’t rebellion, but indifference? In Revelation 3, Jesus confronts the church in Laodicea not for denying Him, but for their lukewarm devotion—proof of spiritual sloth. Sloth isn’t laziness; it’s apathy toward God’s calling. It disguises itself as busyness, self-care, or comfort, but leads to a life without purpose. Jesus calls us to repent, be zealous, and come back to Him. He disciplines those He loves and invites us into real rest, not counterfeit comfort. Where have you allowed sloth to creep into your life? Jesus is knocking—how will you respond?
What do you do when you feel angry? Anger isn’t a sin—it’s a signal. But if left unresolved, it becomes wrath, and wrath destroys. God gives us a four-step framework to deal with anger: Conversation (talk to God), Examination (ask why you're angry), Opportunity (choose what is right), and Warning (guard against sin). Like Cain, we often justify our emotions and ignore God’s call. But Jesus, our true older brother, didn’t act in wrath—He acted in love. Today, surrender your anger at the cross and receive the healing only Jesus offers.
Rachel and Leah’s story in Genesis 29–30 shows how envy can turn sisters into rivals. One longed for love, the other for children—each believing they needed what the other had to feel valuable. Envy convinces us we’re lacking and makes it hard to celebrate others. But God offers a better way. Envy says, “I want what you have,” but contentment says, “I trust what God has given.” Through repentance and gratitude, God uproots envy from our hearts. Like Leah, when we say, “This time I will praise the Lord,” our hearts shift. The Gospel reminds us—our worth is secure in Christ.
Pride distorts our God-given purpose. Genesis 11 shows humanity building a tower to make a name for themselves, forsaking their identity, value, and mission. But God, in mercy, intervened. In Acts 2, He reversed Babel—sending the Holy Spirit to restore what pride destroyed. Now, through Jesus, we receive a new name and a renewed purpose. Just like the crowd in Acts 2, we’re invited to respond: “What shall we do?” The answer—repent, be baptized, and receive the Holy Spirit.
In this opening message of Deadly Desires, we explore the power of desire through James 1:13–18. Desire itself isn’t evil—it’s a gift from God—but when twisted by temptation, it gives birth to sin and, ultimately, death. Temptation comes from the world, the enemy, and often our own flesh. While our sinful nature lures us away, God offers new birth through Jesus Christ, our High Priest, who was tempted yet never sinned. Because of Him, we can now come boldly to God's throne. As we worship, we reflect: Where am I trying to satisfy a God-given desire in a sinful way?
You might be at church on Easter because of tradition, curiosity, or just hoping for something real. The truth is—we’re all searching. In Mark 16, women came to the tomb grieving, expecting a dead body, and facing a problem they couldn’t solve. But God had already moved the stone. Jesus rose. He’s alive—and He’s still calling people by name, even those who’ve failed. Easter means your search can end. Jesus offers peace, purpose, and a new beginning.
Palm Sunday reminds us that we all crown something as king—but only Jesus is truly worthy. Through His triumphal entry, we see that Jesus is the Man who understands our needs, the King who rules with humility, and the Savior who came to rescue us. Unlike worldly kings who demand from us, Jesus invites us to trust Him, serve others, and receive salvation. As the crowd cried “Hosanna”—“save us now”—Jesus entered not to take a throne, but to carry a cross. This Passion Week, we are challenged to ask: Who gets the crown in your life?
In Mark 14:1–11, we see a woman pour out costly perfume on Jesus, sparking outrage from others—but Jesus calls it beautiful. Her motive was pure love, while Judas’s was selfish gain. As Passover approached, Jesus was preparing to be the true Passover Lamb, giving His life to save us. The woman’s worship was a response to His worth, not a performance. This sermon challenges believers to evaluate their own motives in following Jesus. Is it love? Gratitude? Or something else? In response, we are invited to repent and return to the heart of worship—where it’s all about Jesus.
In One Day, we explore Jesus’ teaching in Mark 13:32–37, where He speaks of His return. Though we don’t know the day or hour, we’re called to stay spiritually awake—alert and active. Jesus reminds us that the Father alone knows the timing, and that’s where our hope lies. While life’s trials and treasures may lull us to sleep, we’re urged to keep our minds set on things above. The return of Jesus isn’t meant to cause fear, but to inspire faith, obedience, and urgency. One day, He will return—and until then, we live with trust and purpose.
In Mark 11, Jesus examines a fig tree and the temple, expecting fruit but finding none. The tree looked healthy from a distance, but up close, it was barren. The temple was meant to be a house of prayer, but instead, it was a marketplace. Jesus still inspects His Church today. Are we just putting on a good appearance, or are we truly bearing fruit? Are we living with faith, love, and generosity, or have we made faith about ourselves? The good news is that Jesus took the curse of sin upon Himself so we could be made new—so we could grow and bear real fruit. If Jesus inspected your heart today, what would He find? Would He see faithfulness? Would He see fruit?
We spend our lives avoiding suffering, chasing status, and seeking love—yet none of it truly satisfies. Jesus offers a better way. In Mark 10:35-45, He shows that true life comes through humility, leadership through serving, and love through sacrifice. He didn’t just teach this—He lived it, giving His life as a ransom for many. The world’s way is broken, but Jesus’ way leads to life. Will you follow Him?
Life is full of moments—some we wish would last forever and others we pray would end. But moments fade; Jesus remains. The Transfiguration (Mark 9:2-8) reveals Jesus as the radiance of God’s glory, not just a teacher or prophet. Peter wanted to build a tabernacle to contain the moment, but Jesus is the true tabernacle, making a way for us to stand in God’s presence. In every season, we must look to Jesus, stay silent before Him, and listen to His words. Faith isn’t built on moments but on the unchanging Christ. Hold onto Jesus—He alone remains.
Jesus once asked His disciples a question that still echoes today: "Who do you say I am?" It’s one thing to know about Jesus, but truly following Him transforms everything. This question isn’t just about recognizing His life and works—it’s about surrender, identity, and a faith that reshapes every part of who we are. As we step into this moment in Scripture, we’ll wrestle with what it really means to follow Jesus, not just in name but in action. So, who do you say He is? Your answer might change everything.
We all try to look clean—through good deeds, reputation, or comparison—but deep down, we know we’re not as pure as we seem. Like dirt under our nails, sin isn’t just on the surface; it comes from within. The Pharisees washed their hands, but their hearts remained filthy. No amount of effort can scrub away our guilt. The good news? Jesus doesn’t ask us to clean ourselves—He makes us clean. Like Joshua in Zechariah 3, God removes our filthy garments and clothes us in righteousness. True purity isn’t earned; it’s received. Stop using soap—let Jesus make you new.
Life can leave us exhausted, empty, and searching for more. In Mark 6, Jesus reveals Himself as the True Shepherd, offering rest, provision, and life. He invites the weary to come away and rest, yet when faced with thousands of hungry people, the disciples only see lack—but Jesus creates abundance. He is the Better Moses, leading His people to green pastures. Jesus, the Bread of Life, doesn’t just sustain us—He completely satisfies. Will you trust Him? Come to the table—your Shepherd has prepared the meal.
Delays can be frustrating, but delays can grow our faith. Jairus and the bleeding woman both experienced painful waiting, yet their faith led them to Jesus. In seasons of delay, we must make three choices: Desperation—recognizing our need for Jesus, Dependence—trusting His power and timing, and Direction—continuing to walk with Him even when the answer seems delayed. Jairus came for a cure but witnessed a resurrection. When delays feel unbearable, remember: God is never late. Keep trusting, keep walking, and you’ll see His power in His perfect time. Will you trust Him in the delay?
When we go through storms in life where do we take our fear? Fear is a natural emotion that should cause us to go to God. But often we allow fear to disrupt the trust we have or don’t have in God. We can end up taking our fears to unhealthy places. The disciples that night were afraid of the storm but even more terrified when Jesus calmed the storm. Why was this so scary for them? Well, that night a different storm inside them needed to be confronted. It was the storm of their sinful hearts and only Jesus, who was fully man (asleep on the boat) and fully God (having divine control over nature) could defeat this ultimate storm of sin. As we remember his sacrifice we can be sure that God cares about us so much that He sent His Son so no one will perish.
In The New & True Family of God, we explore how Jesus redefined family through faith and obedience. Misunderstood by His own family, Jesus modeled grace, love, and unwavering faithfulness. He called us into a new family, bound by obedience to God’s will, not bloodlines. While earthly families may misunderstand our faith, we respond with trust in God, forgiveness, and peace. Through Jesus’ perfect obedience, even to the cross, we are adopted as children of God, united into His family. Blaze Church is called to be the family our community needs, reflecting God’s love through unity, grace, and obedience.
In Mark 2:1-12, Jesus demonstrates His authority to forgive sins, revealing our greatest need—spiritual restoration. Often, we approach Jesus with immediate needs like healing, provision, or guidance, but He looks beyond the surface to address the deeper issue: sin. The paralytic sought physical healing, the scribes clung to self-righteous judgment, and the crowds marveled at the miracle but missed the message. Jesus challenges us to trust Him not just as Healer or Provider, but as Savior. By meeting our unseen need for forgiveness, Jesus offers more than we expect, calling us to faith, humility, and reliance on His authority.
In Mark 1:1-20, Jesus' arrival declares the Kingdom of God: a revolutionary kingdom with a King, a message, and a people. Jesus is the Messiah and Son of God, affirmed by the prophets, John the Baptist, and God the Father. His message, “The time is fulfilled, the kingdom is at hand; repent and believe,” invites us to leave self-built kingdoms and trust in the Good News. Calling ordinary fishermen to follow Him, Jesus shows that His kingdom is for everyone. As we begin this year, will you surrender your “nets” and follow Jesus, the King who brings true purpose?
As we approach a new year, we reflect on God’s faithfulness, drawing lessons from Israel’s crossing of the Jordan River in Joshua 3–4. Like the Israelites, we prepare for new seasons by seeking God, consecrating ourselves, and trusting His Word. The priests stood in the river, mediating a path into the Promised Land, foreshadowing Jesus, our ultimate High Priest, who stood in the chaos of sin to bring us eternal life. Just as Israel built memorial stones to remember God’s deliverance, we reflect on His goodness through communion, our memorial of Christ’s ultimate sacrifice, and look forward with hope.
In "The Gift of Peace" (Luke 2:8-17), we see that true peace is not something we achieve but a gift God gives through Jesus. The angels’ announcement to the shepherds—ordinary, overlooked people—reveals that God’s peace is for all who receive it. Jesus, the Savior, Christ, and Lord, came to restore peace between God and humanity. Like the shepherds, we must respond to the invitation to behold Him—to see Jesus as our Prince of Peace. His peace calms our hearts, reconciles us with God, and equips us to share His peace with others. Peace is possible because Jesus came.
The message, The Gift of Forgiveness, explores how Jesus offers forgiveness, not as something we earn, but as a life-changing gift. It contrasts mistakes—accidental errors—with sin, a deliberate rebellion against God. Using Romans 5 and 7, the sermon examines sin's reality, power, and our inability to save ourselves. Through Adam, sin and death entered the world, but through Jesus, grace and life abound. Forgiveness is costly—Jesus bore our debt through His death and resurrection. The message challenges listeners to swallow their pride, admit their need, and receive this gift that restores us to God and transforms our lives.
Everyone is searching for purpose! Discover four aspects of the purpose Jesus offers: it’s for the ordinary, it can feel overwhelming, it’s empowered by the Holy Spirit, and it requires a faithful response. God’s purpose is not for the elite but for all, as shown through Mary’s story. Jesus’ purpose often feels too big but is made possible through the Spirit. True purpose comes when we surrender to God’s will. Jesus came to bring a purpose that can’t be found in anything else—offering salvation, eternal life, and a life lived for His kingdom.
This Christmas season, Blaze Church explores The Gifts of Christmas, beginning with the gift of God's Presence. Through Jesus, God chose to be with us, walking in our joys and struggles, offering peace, comfort, and forgiveness. Matthew 1:23 and Psalm 139 reveal God's intimate nearness, even in our mess. By confessing sin, prioritizing time with Him, engaging in worship, and reflecting on Scripture, we can embrace His presence daily. Christmas reminds us that through Jesus' sacrifice, God is always with us, calling us to draw near. Let’s eliminate distractions, embrace His grace, and experience the fullness of "God with us."
In Beating Burnout, Part 3 of the Peace of Mind series, we explore how chronic stress can lead to emotional, physical, and spiritual exhaustion. Using Elijah’s journey in 1 Kings 19, we identify four decisions that contribute to burnout: overexertion, isolation, negative thinking, and forgetting God. Yet, God’s response to Elijah’s despair is compassionate, offering rest, nourishment, and His gentle presence. The message concludes with Jesus’ invitation in Matthew 11:28-30, calling the weary to experience His unforced rhythms of grace.
What are you ruled by? In the story of the twelve men who were sent to report on the conditions of the land of Caanan, ten of them came back with a perspective that was based in fear. Two of the men had faith and a positive outlook. They all saw potential, but most of them refused to take the risk. For you to function at your best, you need to step out, trust God and take a risk. When you are ruled by only what you see in front of you, you miss out on what God is saying and doing. But if you look past what is right in front of you, you will see the promises of God! Will you choose to be ruled by fear or faith?
This message in the Peace of Mind series explores anxiety and how to find peace. Facing overwhelming odds, Jehoshaphat sought God, fasted, gathered his community, and prayed with full dependence on the Lord. When we feel anxious, we are invited to turn to God in similar ways: through intentional prayer, fasting, and relying on supportive, faith-filled community. Ultimately, this sermon reminds us that our battles belong to God, and we can worship Him with confidence, knowing He is in control and His peace is available to us.
In the first message of the Peace of Mind series, we examine Jesus’ teaching on worry, rooted in trusting God as our Father. Jesus tells us not to worry because God, our loving Father, knows our needs and values us deeply—more than even the birds He provides for. When we forget this relationship, we fall into “value amnesia,” doubting our worth and security. Jesus calls us to seek God’s Kingdom first, surrendering control and finding peace in knowing that our Father cares for us.
In this sermon titled "Living in the End Times," part of the You Asked For It series, the message addresses common misconceptions about the end times, emphasizing hope over fear. Drawing from Matthew 24 and 1 Thessalonians 4-5, it explores the biblical context of Jesus’ teachings on the destruction of the temple and His eventual return. The message encourages living as "children of light," ready for Christ’s second coming without trying to predict dates. The sermon concludes with a call to action through the Landmark Vision and communion, symbolizing the hope of Christ’s return and His future kingdom.
In this message, we celebrate Blaze Church's incredible journey since 2015, reflecting on God's miraculous work in our community. Sharing our faith is not just a "good thing" for followers of Jesus to do — it is a command of Jesus. Through the story of the Good Samaritan, we explore practical steps to notice people, recognize their needs, and take action to make Jesus known. You'll also hear an exciting vision for the future, including our Landmark renovation project, building a church in Uruguay, and supporting church renovations in France. Together, we'll commit to advancing God's Kingdom through faith and generosity.
As parents, we must remember that our children belong to God. We must be intentional about teaching our children and we need wisdom! In this message, we look at the book of Exodus where Moses’ parents had to make a big decision and trust God. We'll discover how to apply this truth in our own homes. Whether you are a parent or not, this message will encourage and strengthen your faith in God to trust Him always!
How do we manage time in a way that honors God? In this practical message, you'll discover that effective time management is about prioritization, not merely being busy. Haggai chapter 1 challenges us to assess whether our priorities align with God's, urging us to "think about it" before making commitments. The key to time management is putting God first. We are encouraged to seek godly counsel in decision-making and to recognize that worry does not add value to our lives. God cares about how we use our greatest resource!
Relationships can be complicated, especially when you don't see eye to eye. Pastor Greg Surratt shares practical tips on how to handle disagreements in relationships. He teaches from James 4:1, which challenges us to consider our internal desires as the source of quarrels, and Ephesians 4:1-2 which calls us to live out our Christian faith with humility and gentleness. By embodying the fruits of the Spirit and valuing others above ourselves, we can set a new standard for interactions and create a more peaceful, united community.
Our final core value is Unity: Life Is Better Together. The message emphasizes that God loves unity and calls His people to live in harmony. We need to embrace four key steps for fostering unity: determining your mindset, discovering your purpose, developing your character, and displaying your faith. We also celebrate every Dream Team member, who embodies these principles by serving the church. Our unity is a sign to this world that Jesus is the One who came to save us, and call us to live brand new!
In this message, we dive into Blaze Church's sixth core value: "Generosity Is Our Privilege." Drawing from Acts 20:35 and 2 Corinthians 8-9, we explore the biblical principle that generosity is not about the amount but about the heart behind the gift. True generosity is sacrificial and joyful, and it reflects the grace of the Gospel. As followers of Christ, we give not out of obligation but as an act of worship, acknowledging that God first gave to us. Our generosity blesses others and enables them to praise God, creating an eternal return on investment.
Maturity is a process! In this sermon, "I Have A Next Step," part of the "Family Values" series at Blaze Church, the focus is on the core value of Maturity. Drawing from Luke 8:4-15 and Ephesians 3:16-17, the message emphasizes that spiritual maturity is a continuous journey influenced by the condition of one's heart. Through the Parable of the Sower, the sermon illustrates how different heart conditions affect spiritual growth. We are called to be receptive to the Word of God. Every believer has a next step. God wants to do more in us and through us than we can even imagine. It’s time to get off milk and on solid food! We are a collective committed to maturity!
In this sermon, based on 2 Kings 5, we explore the fourth core value of Blaze Church: "Go Low," which emphasizes humility. Through the story of Naaman, a powerful commander humbled by leprosy, we learn that pride is a barrier to God’s grace. Naaman’s journey from prideful self-reliance to humble obedience illustrates the transformative power of God’s grace. The message encourages us to examine areas of pride in our own lives and choose humility, just as Jesus did. By humbling ourselves, we open the door to God’s healing and restoration.
Our third value at Blaze Church is Passion: Always Do Your Best! Drawing from 1 Corinthians 10:31 and the story of Ananias and Sapphira in Acts 5, we highlight the dangers of half-hearted commitment and the need for wholehearted devotion. The message will urge people to pursue excellence for God’s glory, both individually and collectively. We discover that deception destroys passion, and devotion drives passion. We also celebrate a major update to our Landmark Vision. We will always do our best at Blaze Church!
What feelings and thoughts rise up when you are around someone different from you? Our second core value at Blaze Church is “Every Person Matters.” This is a messy value; it will cause us to love and value all people, and sometimes that’s hard. Drawing from Acts 10, the sermon explores the story of Peter and Cornelius, highlighting how God’s plan transcends cultural and ethnic boundaries. Peter’s vision and encounter with Cornelius challenge deep-rooted bigotry, illustrating that every person, regardless of background, is significant to God. We are called to share the gospel without discrimination, understanding that Christ’s sacrifice offers forgiveness and salvation to all. As believers, we must actively work to make everyone feel valued and included in God’s family.
In our series on Blaze Church’s Core Values, we begin with “Jesus Over Everything,” inspired by Paul’s message in Athens. Paul observed the city's idolatry and addressed its people, affirming their religiosity but pointing to their confusion. He proclaimed that God, the Creator of everything, doesn’t dwell in man-made temples. Paul emphasized the need for repentance, revealing the resurrection of Jesus as central to faith. By placing Jesus over everything, Paul illustrated that true worship and salvation come through Christ alone, not through religious practices or idols. This message is foundational for Blaze Church’s commitment to prioritize Jesus in all we do.
Who has the right to rearrange the furniture in your house? You! Because you are the owner! Jesus entered the temple in Jerusalem and began turning over tables and driving out the merchants. When questioned about his authority to do such a thing, Jesus responded by declaring that He was the temple that would be destroyed and raised up in three days. When we surrender our lives to Jesus, we give Him the authority to rearrange the furniture in our lives; he calls the shots! As a collective of believers, we are now the temple of God, called to be a house of prayer! Let's embrace this call, surrendering our lives to Jesus and living in community, united in prayer and worship.
Greed is sneaky. That’s why Jesus said to watch out for it. Often, we justify our greedy decisions, especially when we feel pain and grief. But if we’re honest, no one likes a greedy person. There was a moment when a rich, young leader came to Jesus asking how to receive eternal life. Jesus exposed the greed in his heart. Through their conversation, we discover that while riches can make following Christ harder, when we remember the sacrifice He made for us, we find true spiritual richness. The new kind of wealth that believers have is gospel communities. Generosity truly is our privilege, and it is the way to being refreshed!
In this message, we will discover that priorities are not just about ourselves but that God desires for us to have friendships; real bonds here on earth that point us to His love. When we love others as ourselves we are fulfilling the gospel message. Jonathan understood this when his friend David was being hunted by his Father. Lightning McQueen, in the movie Cars, realizes that life is better when you are not alone. And you and I must realize that Jesus is the best friend we can have. As we live this life to honor God and others, we will live it to the fullest with the right priorities in place!
Did you know God created all of your emotions and not just the happy ones? Continuing our series, At the Movies, we explore the movie Inside Out in connection with God’s word to learn that God created us with a spectrum of emotions, each serving a purpose in our lives. And we will see that just as Riley's emotions worked together in the film, we too should acknowledge and embrace all of our feelings to experience emotional balance and wholeness which helps us connect with God and others. Learn practical steps for processing and expressing your feelings, and see how God can draw us closer to Him and to others through our emotional experiences.
Where do people go when they die? There are a lot of suggestions ranging from reincarnation to nothingness to the afterlife. It is clear that people are curious about what happens when someone dies. The Christian message declares that people either spend eternity in the presence of God or are separated from the presence of God. In this message, we discover what the Bible says about heaven and hell. Believers have hope and confidence in the return of Christ. By using movie clips from Pixar’s Coco, we learn that those who surrender their lives to Jesus will spend forever in heaven.
The final charge Peter the Apostle gives in his letter is Stand Firm! Children of God are protected by the mighty hand of God. Knowing this, we can choose humility in a world that celebrates pride. We do not have to carry burdens; Jesus invites us to cast all our cares on Him. The devil wants to devour us. Our response is to live alert and sober-minded. Christ has already confronted and defeated Satan; we do not have to live in fear. Our hope of eternal glory frames our current suffering as momentary. As we live in this world, we stand firm, knowing that our display of Christ’s love will cause others to put their hope in Him as well.
- In the book of 1 Peter, the apostle Peter was speaking to Christians in Rome, but his words are for us today as well.
- We should have the same mindset — a mindset to do the Father’s will, a mindset towards eternity.
- God says: I want you to do my will specifically for you.
- It’s not about you!
- Be Christlike
- God sets up boundaries in our life for our good.
- Jesus gives us a new way of living. Our normal response is “Get back at those who do harm to you.” But Jesus says, “bless those who persecute you.”
- Suffering gives us an opportunity to honor God and display Christ through the way we respond to suffering.
On Father’s Day, we reflect on what it means to be a child of God. Believers are called to exhibit unity, sympathy, love, compassion, and humility. By living these qualities, others should recognize us as God’s children, just as people say, "He’s his father’s son." Even in suffering, we share the hope within us with gentleness and respect. The transformation in Peter, who boldly proclaimed Jesus despite persecution, serves as our model. Let’s strive for people to see that we’ve been with Jesus, embodying His love and grace in all we do.
In his great mercy, God has given us a new birth into a living hope! That is good news! When the believers in the first century received Peter’s letter, they must have been filled with joy, despite the suffering they were facing. How are we called to live as we await the return of Christ? The hope we have in Jesus is not a vague wish; it is a certain expectation! In this portion of Peter’s letter, we discover four ways to live for Christ: Gird our minds, pursue holiness, choose reverent fear, and remember past redemption. If you ever wonder what your worth is, remember God chose to redeem you through the blood of His Son, even before the creation of the world! You matter!
The Holy Spirit has good gifts to give believers so we can help one another. Paul wrote to the church in Corinth to address some issues they were having. One of the problems they faced was chaos in their worship services. People were using spiritual gifts for their own benefit. Through his writing, we discover the importance of being united in the midst of diversity. As the human body has many parts that form one body, the church is filled with various gifts to complete the whole. The most important thing is love. Without love, none of the gifts matter. The only way to show the kind of love God calls us to show is to know the kind of love He showed us. Small Groups are the best environment for us to use our gifts and grow in our love!
God has more in store for us than we can ever imagine. All believers are invited to receive the Holy Spirit. On the first Pentecost after the Resurrection, the Father fulfilled His promise by sending the Holy Spirit on the Jewish believers. But the promise of salvation and the Spirit wasn’t just for the Jews; it was for all people! Philip went to Samaria and shared the good news with the people of the city. When the Apostles came, they laid hands on the believers, and the Holy Spirit was given. Through this moment we see that God has more of Himself to give to believers than the initial sealing of the Spirit at the moment of salvation. We can receive the Holy Spirit by presenting ourselves, asking in faith, and choosing obedience. Experience the fullness of the Holy Spirit today!
This message will encourage your faith to find peace and comfort in the Lord. The Holy Spirit is the presence of the Lord and by inviting Him into your decision-making, you will have a peace that passes all understanding. The Holy Spirit is our advocate, promised by Jesus himself. He is the promised Comforter, Helper, and Counselor. When you and I feel afraid, Jesus says “Do not be troubled”. The Holy Spirit will come and comfort you in every moment you need. When you feel abandoned, as the disciples did, Jesus says, “I will never leave you”. Through the presence of the Holy Spirit, you and I can be fully comforted and at peace. The peace the Spirit brings will go beyond anything the world has to offer. Welcome His promised presence today by surrendering to Jesus.
You may have heard a prayer that ends like this: “In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.” This prayer acknowledges a single God with three distinct expressions of who He is. So who is the Holy Spirit? He is God — the personal presence of God! Scripture helps us begin to understand God’s beautifully complex identity by giving us symbols that reveal who the Holy Spirit is: Wind, Oil and a Dove. In this message, you will be reminded of how much you need the Holy Spirit to live a fully-alive and empowered life. And He is not just “out there” somewhere — God has given the Holy Spirit to live in you when you hear the Gospel of Jesus and believe!
In this message, you'll hear from a young couple who has been married for just a year, and another couple married for almost 40 years. The common theme? Commitment. Intentionally. Christ at the center. No compromise. Protect your circle. Hard times will come, but with God at the center, your marriage will thrive through the toughest circumstances in life. What's the secret? Put each other first. Live the way of Jesus: "I am second."
Did you know the most talkative person you know is YOU? Think about it. You are with you all the time and you talk to yourself all day long! What are you telling yourself about your relationships? Are your thoughts positive and faith-filled? Every person has ANTS – Automatic Negative Thoughts – that cycle in our heads on repeat. To stop the negative cycle, we need to capture, question and replace negative thoughts with the truth of what God says about us. In this message, learn four lies that will destroy any marriage, and hear the truth about each of those that will bring you freedom.
Many of us have asked the question, "How do I find the right person?" Have you ever considered that a better question may be, "How do I become the right person?" After all, you don’t attract what you want, you attract what you are! Regardless of relationship status, we all need three essential qualities to live a full life: secure in Christ, strong in character, and planted in community. Living in God's love results in strong character in our speech, conduct, love, faith and purity. When we understand this, we see that marriage isn't the goal… Jesus is!
God’s design for marriage is very clear. Culture tells us we can live with an individualistic approach, but according to God, marriage is based on a mutual commitment to one another. Through reading about the marriage relationship between King David and Michal (Saul’s daughter), we will discover three qualities that make a Godly marriage. Michal suffered because she did not know the importance of these qualities within her marriage. You and I are invited to a renewal covenant with the Lord so that we can declare that we will serve the Lord for the rest of our lives!
What are you living for? Do you have hope? If you are missing hope in your life, the likely reason is that what you’ve put your hope in isn’t a living hope. After Jesus died, the disciples lost hope. They went back to their previous source of hope, but it didn’t fulfill them. When the resurrected Jesus showed up, hope was restored. Peter had a miraculous moment of restoration on the beach. Easter means you and I have a living hope. The Christian life comes down to two words: Follow me. When we follow Jesus, we experience a hope that never dies.
Palm Sunday reveals diverse acts of worship: disciples' obedience, the donkey owner's generosity, the crowds' praise, and the Pharisees' pride. Despite the celebration, Jesus weeps over Jerusalem, foreseeing rejection. Reflecting on obedience, generosity, true worship, and humility, we're called to emulate discipleship, generously offer to God our whole lives, praise unceasingly, and guard against pride. As Jesus enters Jerusalem, may we echo the sentiment: 'The Lord needs it,' surrendering everything in worship, acknowledging His Lordship.
God’s desire for lost people is clear: He wants them to know Him. How will people know God? This happens when found people find lost people. This is our non-negotiable mission. Jesus told a story to show us the Father’s heart for people to know Him. In the parable, the master commanded the servants to “Compel them to come in, so that my house will be full.” Everyone is invited! No one is disqualified based on their behavior. However, there is a requirement to enjoy the feast; we must surrender to the saving work of Christ. This Easter, we are committed to compelling lost people to come in and experience the goodness of God!
Believers have this hope: One day Jesus will return and He will make all things new. How are we commanded to live while we wait? Ready! What does living ready look like? Jesus told three stories to teach us what qualities we need if we are to live ready. Ready people are wise, faithful, and selfless. As we begin another year, we believe God is calling us to bring the message of Jesus “Outside These Walls” like never before. This Vision Sunday we choose as a collective to serve the people of our community in an extraordinary way!
If we are not intentional, Blaze Church can become more focused on Christians than on who Jesus was focused on: lost people. Jesus came to find lost people. Every person is either lost or found. Found people find lost people. Jesus went out of his way to go to unclean places and be around unclean people to answer their cries for help. In a graveyard, Jesus brought new life! Our purpose as a church is to blaze the way for lost people to meet Jesus.
Have you ever looked at someone who has great accomplishments and thought, “I could never do that. I’m just ordinary!” Moses didn’t think he had what he needed for greatness. He was just an ordinary guy like the rest of us, but he learned something that changes everything – God gives ordinary people extraordinary strength! Moses had hesitations about his ability to do what God called him to. He doubted. He tried to get out of it. But God sent Him, and gave him everything he needed to be successful. When you are surrendered to God and filled with His Spirit, his power is displayed through your weakness!
When God makes a promise, He keeps it. But sometimes, we lose faith in the waiting. In this message, we’ll look at a moment when God gave Israel a very interesting battle strategy. What can we learn from the Walls of Jericho? God's promises have purpose. God's methods are unique. And God's promises require faith. Don't stop walking because God's not done!
We all have people in our lives that are hard to love. Jesus tells us to “love our enemies” but how are we supposed to do that? David was running for his life from King Saul, and came to a moment when God brought them face to face. David had every right to kill Saul, but he didn’t! He had an honoring view of others, a humble view of himself, and a holy view of God. The only truth that can empower us to love our enemies is knowing that we have been loved by God. We don’t have to cut corners like the world does when it comes to forgiveness; we can love freely.
All of us are on a quest to discover why we are alive. We ask, “What’s my purpose in life?” For Samson, his purpose was very clear. He was filled with God’s spirit and called to do great things. So what happens? Samson completely messed it up, and it resulted in him being blind and powerless. But God is gracious! He graciously provides his presence and promise to people because He is good! And just like God showed his grace to Samson, Jesus comes to rescue you from spiritual blindness and gives you sight to discover your purpose – to know God!
Daniel is the story of God’s faithfulness intersecting with a believer’s pre-decision attitude. To pre-decide means to submit to God’s ways and not compromise His truths even while living in Babylon. This message will inspire you to decide in advance to honor God because that is just what Jesus did. Daniel faced lions and was victorious; Jesus faced sin and death and conquered them! We will learn that Dainel was faithful, responsible and trustworthy – and he knew that God was full of mercy.
Did Noah really survive in a floating boat with all the animals? Why would a loving God destroy the creation He made? The story of Noah’s Ark can bring up lots of questions. What’s the point? As we explore this famous story, we discover that this is not a story of one flood, but of three! Noah was the righteous servant who survived when God brought judgment on the wicked. He points to Jesus, the righteous servant who died so the wicked might be saved. We can live a life of obedience because we’ve been overwhelmed by a flood of grace!
The Bible is a collection of writings that shows us who God is and how He has made a way for humanity to be redeemed through Jesus, so we can now carry out His plan to the world. How can we study the Bible? When we make time, choose a good translation, and find a plan, we are on our way to studying the Bible. As we read, observation, interpretation, and application become important! Even if we do everything “right” our efforts will be in vain if the Holy Spirit does not teach us. Let’s go deeper this year by studying God’s Word!
It’s the most popular book in human history, and yet so many people do not read it. What stops most people from reading the Bible? They don’t know how! Before we can learn how to read the Bible, let’s find motivation by understanding what the Bible is and why it matters in our lives today. Discover six amazing blessings of regular Bible reading. God has graciously revealed what we need to know in His Word. Do you know what’s been revealed?
Prayer and fasting are essential practices as we follow Jesus. Yet so many Christians struggle to be consistent in these disciplines. These are not simply commands by God, prayer and fasting are gifts to empower us to live an abundant life in Christ. On one particular occasion, Jesus’ own apostles were unable to see the miraculous. Why? Because they lacked prayer and fasting. As we begin a New Year, let us make a commitment to growing in our faith by choosing to be part of our annual 21 Days of Prayer and Fasting.
Many people go through life missing peace. We attempt to fix our unrest, but all solutions seem to only be temporary, leaving us feeling unwhole, broken, and longing for something more. When the birth of Christ was prophesied in the 8th century BC, Isaiah said that His name would be “Prince of Peace.” The peace that Jesus brings is complete, whole, lacking nothing; Shalom! This peace is given freely; we simply receive it! This peace is so great, it has no ending! This Christmas season, remember you were called out of darkness to live in God’s marvelous light! You don’t have to be missing peace any longer!
We don’t hear too much “good” news today. Our world is filled with stories that do not produce joy. On the night that Jesus was born, the angel declared “Good news of great joy.” By declaring the birth announcement to shepherds, we discover that this good news is for everyone! We have a Savior, which means we don’t need to save ourselves. We have a Christ, which means we don’t need to be afraid. We have a Lord, which means we don’t need to be in control. This is what Christmas is all about. We can let go of whatever we are holding on to as a source of comfort and security, and we can put our hope in Jesus!
One of our basic survival needs is love; we are created with a need for love. So many of us struggle to experience love because of low self-esteem. In this Advent sermon, we explore the profound love of God using the genealogy of Jesus in Matthew 1. By including individuals with complex stories, Matthew emphasizes that Christmas means God loves us all. When we understand how much God loves us, we will respond by surrendering our lives to Him and choosing to love others freely and deeply. Jesus is not ashamed to call you His brother and sister! And that changes everything!
Hope is something that we all want, yet many people fail to experience it. Biblical hope is not attached to circumstances and outcomes; it is about a Person named Jesus. The Christmas season reminds us that God always keeps His promises. Simeon eagerly waited for the fulfillment of prophecies that were made about the Messiah. He did not wait in despair; he had hope. We can experience hope because we have the Holy Spirit in our lives. This Christmas season, whatever circumstances unfold, you don’t have to get your hopes up; you can get your hopes in Jesus!
If you could ask for one thing right now, what would it be? Maybe it’s a gift — a new car, or a new iPhone. Maybe it’s something more — success in business, a restored relationship, physical health, healing from a wound. We love when we get what we ask for in life. But what happens when it doesn’t happen, and we feel devastated? How do we cope? In this message, we hear how God knows what we truly need. We can ask Him, wait on Him, and trust His timing. To do this we’ll look at two stories: a woman who desperately wanted children, and a boy who desperately wanted a new toy for Christmas. Their responses will help point us to the best thing you can ask for - Jesus himself!
Jesus gives us a profound command: "Do Not Worry.”There are two extreme worldviews of "Man Up" and "Give Up" when it comes to controlling outcomes. Drawing inspiration from the story of Esther, we learn that God is in control, and our choices matter. We are presented with four practical steps: "Pray First," "Rely on Others," "Trust God's Timing," and "Act in Faith." These steps empower us to face life's uncertainties with confidence, relying on the comforting knowledge of God's sovereignty and the significance of our choices.
Who likes to be told what to do by someone else all the time? Let’s be honest — we rarely welcome authority over our lives because we believe we know what is best!
This message kicks off our At The Movies 80's Edition, drawing parallels between "Ferris Bueller's Day Off" and the biblical story of Adam and Eve. Rebellion is resisting authority, often due to an unwillingness to submit to someone else.
Rebellion against God's authority leads to consequences such as shame and separation. Recognizing God as the ultimate authority is so important in our lives. "Fearing the Lord" means revering His greatness and power rather than fearing punishment.
Having a good excuse doesn’t mean it’s a good choice! True wisdom is found in having a healthy respect for God and obeying His commandments.
God clothed Adam and Eve after their rebellion, and He clothes us in His grace and forgiveness through Jesus! We can surrender to God's authority in every aspect of our lives, knowing that His boundaries are for our best.
We are made for connection. We go through life trying to find the best source to connect our lives to in order to establish our identity and purpose. While many sources look good, in the end, they will overpromise and underdeliver the joy we are looking for. Jesus called Himself the True Vine. By doing so, He was claiming to be the truest place for humanity to connect to in order to discover identity and purpose. We are called to receive God’s Son and remain in Him. Faithfulness and fruitfulness make up the Christian life. Our motivation for remaining in Christ is His love for us. If friends determine our future, we are blessed to be called friends by Jesus.
Followers of Jesus can make an eternal difference when we choose to come together in unity to accomplish a God-sized vision. On Commitment Sunday, we reflect on the prayer David when the people of Israel sacrificially gave to see the Temple built. Everything we have comes from God. We are managers who are putting back in His hands what He first gave to us. The heart of generosity includes willingness, sacrifice, gratitude, integrity, and obedience. We praise God as we give Him our best yes to see the Landmark vision become a reality.
Christian faith is not a vague hope; it is a settled confidence that God will keep His promises. Without faith, we cannot honor God with our lives. So then, how do we have faith? Faith grows by hearing about the goodness of Jesus Christ. There was a moment when Jesus performed a miracle as a result of a young boy’s faith. The disciples faced an enormous problem that no human solution could solve. Jesus stretched their faith by asking them certain questions and commissioning them to serve the people. When we put what’s in our hands in the hands of Jesus, miracles take place. As we approach commitment Sunday, we have faith to believe that the Landmark vision will become reality.
What do you care about? We care about the things that matter to us! What if the things we care most about, aren’t what God cares more about? Through the life of Jonah, we discover how easy it is for us to be caught up in caring about plants that will wither and die. We learn that God’s heart is for lost people to be saved. God’s Plan A to bring Jesus to this world is His people, and there is no Plan B. When we seek His Kingdom first, God promises to take care of everything else in our lives.
We have a God-sized dream to see a Landmark established in our community that will draw people to Jesus. Pastor Keith shares what the vision is and how we can all play our part in making it a reality. We are driven by the commission Jesus gave us: to bring the gospel to lost people and to see saved people pastored. Our very first response is to surrender to what God is calling us to. True surrender includes humility, prayer, seeking Jesus, and turning from wickedness. We will be a people who is available to whatever God wants to do!
Have you ever considered what it truly means to be generous in your finances? What standard and definition do you use? In this message, we discover why God commands us to be generous, and what that really means. When we respond to God’s grace for us, it produces gratitude in our hearts, and we are enabled to live truly generous with our finances to make an eternal impact.
God calls unexpected people to unexpected places to make an eternal difference! He invites lost people to know Him and then sends them into the difficult and dark places because there is someone else He deeply cares about who needs to know His love, grace and mercy. When we are obedient to respond to God’s faithfulness and to do what He calls us to, a miracle happens: His will is done and lost people are found in Jesus!
Are you walking through life alone? You were created to be cared for and care for others. Our lives find their fullest potential when we are connected to others in Small Groups. At Blaze Church, small groups look the way they did when the church first began. We focus on four things: Studying God’s Word, Forming Genuine Relationships, Gathering At The Table, and Praying With One Another. The only way to Find Freedom in your life is to be close to other believers.
We are a church committed to fighting for the next generation to know God. God has commanded us to commend his works to every student. The people of Israel failed to do this, and a generation grew up that “did not know the Lord.” Jesus showed us the best way to obey this command: welcome children, become children, and serve children. We can fight for the next generation by setting up environments for them to know God, serving in kids' and students' spaces, and regularly praying for them. When we focus on the next generation, the word of God will multiply in our community!
The things of the world—like appearance, status, and knowledge—can satisfy for a minute, but end up leaving us feeling empty. In Week 4 of Deep Clean, we’re learning how to find fulfillment from the right source and enjoy an abundant life that can only come from God.
If you struggle with an addiction to pornography, you know how much of a toll it can take on your life. It may seem like there’s not a way out from your struggle, but it’s possible to experience freedom. We’re learning how to quit porn addiction in this message of Deep Clean with Pastor Craig Groeschel of Life Church.
Sometimes life can leave us feeling like a mess. The kind of mess that’s just too complicated to figure out. Bitterness can steal your joy and keep you focused on the past. What do we do when God doesn't make sense?
Have you ever done something you’re ashamed of? It can be easy to feel like you’ll never be free from the shame of your past.
Sometimes life can leave us feeling like a mess. The kind of mess that’s just too complicated to figure out. But it’s possible to start fresh. Find out how in this message from Pastor Craig Groeschel of Life Church!
Everyone needs compassion. As we live the dream, we will inevitably be hurt by others. The hardest people to show compassion to are the ones who have hurt us the most. Joseph had the opportunity to exact revenge and hold a grudge against his brothers. There were three truths that Joseph believed that empowered him to love his brothers deeply. Because God has kept no record of our wrongs, we are free to release those who hurt us.
Every dream requires dollars! Without finances, a dream remains a dream. After thirteen years, Joseph’s dream is finally coming true. It will require him to manage the financial assets of Egypt. This is no small task. God provides wisdom to Joseph so that Egypt is able to thrive in the midst of famine. We discover four biblical, financial principles from Joseph’s leadership: Work hard, Save up, Give away, Live debt-free. Money can be a wonderful servant or a terrible master. No matter how much money you have, you will never have enough to save your soul. By knowing God, you will have the greatest motivation to use your money in a way that brings freedom and happiness. Apply Common-Cents Principles to your money habits.
When we are living the dream, we will be faced with temptations that will try to have us compromise our godly character. If you and I want to resist temptation, we need to live differently than this world. Our character matters because character is who we desire to become. And our reputation demonstrates our character. By living in accordance with the Spirit, we will daily walk with the Lord. And when The Lord is our supreme love over everything, including our fleshly desires, then we can resist temptation – and even run away from it!
Every person has a dream. But the grass always seems to be greener on the other side of the fence. It’s so tempting to look “over there” and think, “If I only had that, I’d be happy.” Before we realize it, jealousy takes root in our heart and our thoughts run wild, leading to words and actions that are destructive. There is a better way! In Jesus, we can choose to be content – no matter the circumstances around us. Contentment in Christ enables us to chase the God-given dreams in our lives!
Many people believe in God. He is great. He is powerful. He is good. But still, something’s missing. You can know about God, but still miss the most important thing there is about Him – that He loves you! In this message, Peter shares how he was a Christian for over 40 years, but has just recently discovered this life-changing truth – that God wants a close relationship with every person. Discover how God loves you and wants to know you personally today!
Do you need relationships? And if you do, what do healthy relationships look like? The Book of Galatians not only shows us that relationships are essential and possible, but also discusses three aspects of a healthy relationship that is fueled by the love and grace of God. The gospel: That Jesus died for our sins so that we can have a relationship with God.
Have you ever done something you knew was wrong, and then thought, “Why did I do that?” We all have those moments. Being a Christian doesn’t mean you are sinless; it does mean we have the freedom to sin less! The apostle Paul expresses his own frustration about the sinful nature being opposed to the Spirit. We have this hope that by belonging to Christ, the sinful nature has been crucified. We are empowered to walk by the Spirit. The Holy Spirit produces fruit in our lives that we cannot attain on our own. Jesus has set us free to live free!
What’s your name, and what do you do? These are common introductory questions that help us share our identity with other people. We find meaning, purpose, and security in knowing our identity. Christians have been given an identity that outshines all gender, social class, and ethnic identities. We are children of God! This revolutionary identity brings us from a position of slavery to sonship. God sent His Son to redeem us from the curse. He sent His Spirit to reassure us of our true identity. On days when we don’t feel like we are saved, we experience the truth of the gospel that declares God the Father has become our personal “Papa”.
We all know what it feels like to keep a certain rule when other people are breaking it. Pride wells up in us. We compare ourselves to others and feel more deserving of the result. What about keeping the law of God? The Galatians were being influenced to put more trust in the law of God than the grace of God to be saved. The law was given not to show us how to be saved, but to show us how much we need to be saved! The law shows us our sins. Under the law, every person stands condemned. In grace, Jesus became a curse for us by dying on the cross. In Christ, the law is no longer the leading authority in our lives. We are free to keep the law, through the power of God, because we’ve been accepted and forgiven.
Is it easy for you to honor people who are not like you? We all have preferences and opinions. When we apply our personal choices to other believers in Christ, we create a space for pride and fear to develop. Attaching anything to the gospel of grace nullifies the work of Christ! The Apostle Peter allowed fear of others to drive him to change the gospel message. Paul confronted Peter’s racism and bigotry through gospel motivation. When we believe that we are justified by faith in the perfect work of Christ, all potential for superiority is broken down. Christians aren’t called to tolerate one another; we are called to honor other believers. We may be different, but that doesn’t mean that any of us is better than the other. Small Groups are essential because they provide the environment for us to live out the gospel of grace with other people.
Your story matters! In the age of influencers and celebrities, It may not seem like you have a story to tell. But if you have a story of grace, you have a story to share! As we begin our journey through the letter of Galatians, we discover that the gospel changes everything, the gospel changes us, and the gospel changes others. The foundation of the gospel is grace; anything that adds to that gospel is no gospel at all. You are loved by God, not because you deserve it, but simply because God chooses to love you. That is Good News worth sharing!
God is never late on His promises. It is us who demonstrate impatience and want to control the situation. This message looks at the story of Sarah (Sarai), Abraham’s wife and the mother of a great nation (Isarel). Throughout Sarah’s faith journey, she discovered that God was in control of fulfilling His promise and that her attempts created a messy situation. We will learn that even though Sarah had barren faith, God still used her and fulfilled His promise through her. In the process, God’s fulfilled promise also changed Sarah and she was able to receive the gift of grace. For us today, God is still a God who fulfills His promises despite our attempts to fulfill them ourselves. He will build our FAITH through our mistakes and prepare us to receive His gift — Jesus!
How do we respond when we wound ourselves? Shame and despair creep in, causing us to believe there is no hope. As we look to the moment when King David chose to wound himself and others, we discover three warning signs that can empower us to prevent wounding ourselves. The wound is not the end of the story. God has the power to redeem our wounds; to take our mess and make it a message of His grace and glory. There is hope in Jesus when we confess our sins, and trust that He is faithful to forgive!
The pain that comes from the wound of death marks us. How do we heal? By looking at the story of Lazarus, we see that Jesus is not removed from our pain when we experience the death of a loved one. He himself experienced deep grief and sorrow, and He understands. He meets us to heal us. When you believe in the Savior and receive Him, you discover both present and future hope.
When we are wounded, we often want explanation and vindication. We try to determine why the wound occurred, and we justify why we don’t deserve it. We can question the justice of God. As we look at Job, the suffering servant, we see a man who feared the Lord, and yet he was wounded drastically! When he demands that God explain why this is happening, God speaks, but he doesn’t provide the reason. When we know God, we can take comfort in knowing that God knows and God is near. We may not know as much as we’d like, but we know the One who knows it all!
How do you deal with your wounds? Too many people choose to escape instead of embracing the wounds of the past. The believer is able to embrace the wound so that healing can occur. We don’t have to remain afraid or unaware of what has happened to us. As we look at the life of Jacob, we see a generational pattern of lying, favoritism, and sibling rivalry. Jacob’s father wound may have been the propelling factor for his lifestyle of “grabbing.” When we acknowledge our wounds, God begins the healing process of naming us as his own.
Do you see Jesus as the resurrected Savior? Many people struggle to believe. So did the disciples in the first century. We are all looking for a place to put our hope in; somewhere that won’t fail us. Jesus graciously drew near to two disciples who were filled with despair and hopelessness. Although they couldn’t recognize Him, He remained with them. He showed them Himself through the Scriptures. When their eyes were opened, they rejoiced and were filled with hope. Easter isn’t about optimism. It is about putting our hope in someone who cannot be overcome, even by death!
Everyone worships. What or who are you expressing reverence, adoration, devotion, and honor towards? As we look back at Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, we see four acts of worship: Obedience, generosity, submission, and praise. Palm Sunday reminds us that Jesus is the King who lays down His people. Jesus is the only true King worthy of our worship.
Did Jesus really resurrect? Christianity makes the bold claim that Christ was killed, buried, and came back to life. Is that archaic thinking? What proof is there for this? Every person has faith in something. The believer and the nonbeliever both need to provide a historically feasible explanation for the birth of the church in the first century. As we examine the evidence, we discover that believing in the resurrection does not require blind or illogical faith. If Jesus did in fact resurrect, this means that all who believe in Him become new creations. Our sin is paid for, our lives are changed, and the living Christ is with us.
How can a good God allow so much pain and suffering? Suffering is not a Christian problem; it’s a human problem. We all have to address why suffering exists. As we look to God’s Word, we find that the Christian response to suffering offers the greatest source of hope. Jesus makes three promises: suffering exists, everyone suffers, and those who believe in Him have hope. While we may not always understand why we suffer, and can have peace in Christ knowing that He has overcome all the evil and pain we experience.
If Christianity is so great, why do some Christians act so terrible? How is it possible that some Christians become hypocrites? Jesus addresses this problem through His parable of the unforgiving servant. In this message, we discover that Christians act terribly when they become “Grace Amnesiacs.” The best way to combat hypocrisy in our lives is by continually reminding ourselves of God’s grace. Discover four ways we can live out a hypocrisy-free Christianity.
Believers are the house of God. We are His temple. How much attention do you place on living a godly life? It is so easy to allow other focuses to become the priority. The people of Israel had the vision to see the temple rebuilt. They stopped working when the opposition came. By looking at their building project in 520 BC, we discover four values that are essential for us as we “Build His House.” In this Vision Sunday message, our pastors share where God is leading us in 2023.
Friendships matter. The people we choose to surround ourselves with impact our lives. We live in a time where forming true friendships is very challenging. As we look to a moment between Jesus and “the man who had no friends” we see how all of us experience the desire, the cost, and the result of friendships. The gospel declares that while we were enemies of God, Jesus took the first step towards us to call us His friends. At Blaze Church, the greatest place to form true friendships is in a small group.
Sex has become a god of sorts in our culture. We are told that sexual experiences are the greatest forms of pleasure. We center our identity our sexual orientation and preferences. This is nothing new. The Greeks worshipped Eros, the god of love and sex. When we follow their example, the results are clear: heartache, brokenness, dysfunction, pain, and shame. Sex is not the problem; idolizing sex is. God created sex to be enjoyed. He gives us the best plan for sex and romantic love. There are two approaches to sex: covenant and consumerism. Whether you are single or married, discover the freedom that Jesus alone brings by embracing Him as the Living Water for your soul.
Agape love is defined as “a love that serves others”. In this message, we will unpack what Jesus said about this type of love, what Jesus did to show Love, and what we can do in light of knowing Jesus’ love. Believers are called to serve others out of a place of being LOVED, not to be loved. When we know the Love of the Father, we can selflessly serve those around us!
Family – it’s a word that brings up so many varying emotions. Love. Appreciation. Joy. Heartache. Family drama. As believers in Christ, we are called to love our family members well. How? In this message, we’ll hear a story of family love that shows us practical ways that will help us. But even with all our determination, there will be a time you will inevitably fall way short. The only way to truly love our families well is to experience for yourself the transforming and empowering grace and love of God through Jesus Christ! Being part of a new family helps us love our family in a new way.
“Don’t you care?” It’s a question we ask God and others when we face a storm in life. We long for someone to meet us in our distress, and hopefully bring peace to our pain. You’re not happy when you don’t have peace. If we want to be peacemakers, we need to have peace! While the disciples were in a storm, Jesus was sleeping in the boat. Jesus rebuked the waves and questioned if the disciples believed in Him. They asked the better question that we need to ask if we want peace, “Who is Jesus?” The storm of sin has been hushed by the power of Jesus. Because we have peace with God, we can be peacemakers.
Does being a Christian mean that we should feel guilty about pleasure? Is everything off-limits now? When God made the world He said, “It is good!” But what does it mean now that this world has been tainted by sin? There are three questions that a believer should ask to discover what kind of pleasure we get to enjoy, not that we have been saved by Jesus. Happiness is found in recognizing God gives good gifts! Don’t settle for sin. Share what you have. And be ready to surrender anything God calls you to lay down.
Wouldn’t it be nice to experience happy days every day of our life? If we connect our happiness to our circumstances, we will be at the mercy of life to provide that happy feeling we all desire. God offers us something better: contentment. What if contentment is the key to experiencing happy days? When we discover that contentment is connected to Christ, not circumstances, we will live a truly happy life! This way of living is not easy, but it is possible when we trust in Christ for our strength.
We are told that the pursuit of happiness is a right for every person. But what if our definition of happiness is wrong? We could find ourselves pursuing something that won’t actually make us happy. God wants us to be happy, but not the way we think of happiness. Discover how much greater God’s definition of happiness is, and how happy people truly live.
What is Christian fasting? If you want to see Jesus increase in your life, fasting is essential. When we go without, we are able to see who/what we look to for satisfaction in life. Jesus fasted for forty days in the wilderness, and overcame the temptations of the enemy so that He could achieve for us salvation! When we fast, we remind ourselves that we most need to be satisfied by the Bread of Life.
What are you dreaming about? We all have dreams, but we all experience moments where our dreams do not come true. What do we do then? The message of Christmas is that God came to us! To an engaged, young Jewish couple, the birth of Christ meant personal dreams would be lost. The angel’s words to Joseph provided the needed courage to trust God’s plan, power, purpose, and presence. Discover a hope that outlasts every dream. Anchor your soul to the One who came to save you from your sin.
How busy are you this holiday season? Between the shopping, parties, hosting, and family photo sessions many of us are busier than ever. Why? Who are we doing all this for? If you’re honest, you may realize that the person you are trying to make happy during the holiday season is YOU. It’s very easy for selfishness to creep in. As we look at The Grinch, we see that both the people of Whoville, and The Grinch, missed the meaning of Christmas because they were all focused on themselves. God sent His Son to the world to be a Light that exposes our darkness. There is hope this Christmas season for you to be set free from selfishness!
How easy is it for you to forgive? Maybe this Christmas you’re reminded of friends and family who may have hurt you in some way or maybe you find it hard to love some of the people in your life because of their past decisions. We’ll see through God’s word and Home Alone 2 that the ultimate reason we forgive is because God forgave our biggest debt by sending his son Jesus to earth to save us from our sins.
We all want to be loved! A place to call home. A place to belong. We have all found ourselves longing, searching or working for the love of a father. In this message, we’ll look at Buddy the Elf’s story and his search for love. You’ll be sure to relate as Buddy works to get his dad’s love and experiences disappointment along the way. But the best news is that there is a loving Heavenly Father who wants you to belong in his family. Through Jesus, you can truly know your Heavenly Father and receive His love for you!
We all want to be loved! A place to call home. A place to belong. We have all found ourselves longing, searching or working for the love of a father. In this message, we’ll look at Buddy the Elf’s story and his search for love. You’ll be sure to relate as Buddy works to get his dad’s love and experiences disappointment along the way. But the best news is that there is a loving Heavenly Father who wants you to belong in his family. Through Jesus, you can truly know your Heavenly Father and receive His love for you!
What is the path to success and greatness? Be the best. Get recognized. Fulfill your dreams. What the world says to do, Jesus says won’t work. He gave his disciples the secret to greatness. Discover what Jesus meant when he said “Be different.” When we understand how to live and why to live the way Jesus says, we will truly become great. If you want to have the best life possible, you need to carry a towel.
Jesus has given every believer spiritual authority. Because Satan was defeated at the cross, we no longer have to live as slaves to sin. What if the thing you are asking God to take away - addictions, immorality, idols - continues to exist because you will simply not surrender it to the Lord? Discover what it means to fight from the place that Jesus has secured for you!
The Lord’s Supper. The Eucharist. Communion. What exactly is this sacrament, and why does it matter so much? Every time we come to the Lord’s Table we look back, presently engage and look ahead. Discover all the significance and beauty in the Christian practice of Communion. Everyone is invited to the table.
Is it hard for you to talk about Jesus with other people? You’re not alone! Sharing our faith is the best way to increase our faith in God! What do we need to know so that we can be prepared to share the Good News with our friends and family members? An unnamed Samaritan woman gives us the answer. You don’t need to be intimidated or afraid.
Every person is tempted. How do we stand firm? James says to count it all joy when we face trials and temptations. There is a purpose to your pain. We can overcome temptation by deciding to stand before the temptation comes! What vows have you made to the Lord? Are you keeping them? There are three things that we can render to the Lord, in response to His generosity towards us. When we remember our vows, we will stand firm in the midst of trials.
Today we celebrate the last seven years of Blaze Church! By looking back, we can see incredible moments that led to countless lives changed. All of this happened because of radical generosity. We know there is still more! More people need to be saved. More opportunities for compassion and outreach. More stories need to be written. You can make a difference in someone’s life over the next seven years by being generous. Discover four biblical values of generosity and partner with others in seeing the East End of Long Island transformed by the message of Jesus!
Internet connection issues can disrupt our work and enjoyment in life. It’s never fun. But what about connection issues with God? Have you ever felt like you just couldn’t sense God’s nearness? You’re not alone! When our faith is waning, God has provided a way for us to connect with Him. There was a moment when a father brought his sick son to Jesus’ disciples for healing. They were unable to help, and they didn’t understand why. Jesus’ answer reveals what we need to do at all times - especially when we are having connection issues with God! Discover the beautiful gift that God has given us. Your faith will increase!
What is shaping your mindset? Could it be that you are prone to worry, fear, and doubt, because of your constant intake of news, social media, and content that doesn’t promote God’s Kingdom? We think more than 6,000 thoughts a day! How many of those thoughts are increasing our faith? Let’s renew our minds and increase our faith! How? Through God’s Word! Discover how reading Scripture daily will bring six blessings into your life, and will ultimately increase your faith in God!
Life is filled with tests. We may not enjoy the test, but it does cause us to grow. The people of Israel experienced a miracle, but just three days later, they turned against God. God tested them to show that they needed to be healed. Bitterness had taken root. God revealed His Name as Healer and promised that if they obeyed Him, they would never suffer under the diseases that came upon the Egyptians because of their rebellion. Face the tests of life with confidence and know the Lord your Healer is with you!
Who/what is leading you through life? When you feel burnt out, what do you do to restore your soul? Every person has chosen a shepherd to lead, guide, and provide for them. But only the Good Shepherd lays down His life for the sheep. As we read Psalm 23, we meet Jehovah Rohi: The Lord Our Shepherd. Discover all the blessings that God brings when He becomes the Shepherd of your life.
Have you ever faced a giant before? A giant-sized situation paralyzes you. It overwhelms and makes you think, “There is no way out.” The biggest problem with a giant-sized problem is it will challenge your identity. There is an important Name of God that we must know and call on when we are facing giants. When you feel tired and you want to give up, discover how God calls us to fight our battles.
God has declared that His Name is a strong tower, but have you ever wondered what His Name is? What sets apart the God of the Christian faith? When Moses asked God what His Name was, He responded with a beautiful answer that we need to understand. Discover how you can have a personal relationship with the God of the universe, and how that relationship changes everything.
One of the toughest prayers you can pray is to ask God to break your heart for what breaks His—but in this message, you’ll find out why it’s one of the most important prayers you can pray, too.
Ever wonder why you can’t seem to hear God’s voice? While He doesn’t always speak loudly, He always speaks clearly. In this weekend’s message, you’ll learn how to listen to what God has to say to you.
Are you ready to step boldly into the calling God has for you? You might not be—and that’s OK. In this weekend’s message, you’ll see how you can pray the bold prayers to prepare you for what God has planned for you.
Jesus told a story of a king who was compassionate and forgave a crazy amount of debt one of his servants owed. However, this servant was wicked in character and despite being shown compassion himself he did not demonstrate compassion towards others. Ultimately, the unforgiving servant was separated from the king forever. We can learn this truth that Jesus calls us to forgive without keeping count. When we understand the forgiveness we have been shown, it will be evident in our lives.
Have you found yourself or others believing one way, but acting another way? In the parable of the sheep and goats, Jesus talks about the eternal impact our actions have while on earth and how our belief in the sacrifice Jesus made on the cross shapes the way we act. When we build a foundation on Christ, our natural response will be love.
“I’m done praying!” Have you ever said that? Or maybe, without saying it, you just stopped because praying felt pointless. Jesus told a story to His disciples to teach them to always pray and never give up. Discover four truths about God that enable us to “Pray continually” even when we want to “lose heart.”
Jesus told a story of a landowner who went out to hire workers to work in his vineyard. At the end of the day, the workers who worked just one hour were paid the same amount of money as the ones who worked from sunrise to evening. To which we would say, “That’s Not Fair!” But hidden in this parable is a powerful truth – God’s gift of grace is given to all people, regardless of merit or status. And that is very good news!
Greed is one of those things that none of us have, but we all know someone who does. That's why Jesus said, "Watch Out!" In his parable and his teaching, Jesus shows us how we can live with a less is more attitude by storing up treasures in heaven. Generosity is an essential value for people who are part of the Kingdom of God.
Jesus told a story of a king throwing a big party. His guests refused to come, so the king invited people who were overlooked to attend. Jesus shows us the gospel that declares everyone is invited, and everyone is given the ability to respond. As servants of the king, we have the privilege of telling everyone we know that they are invited to know God!
Contentment seems to be a dirty and offensive word in our culture. Nothing is telling us, “Just be content.” The tenth commandment instructs us not to covet. Coveting is not noticing. Coveting is not wanting. Coveting is idolatry. When we believe a person, place, or possession will fulfill us - we are coveting. It may seem like no big deal to covet, but it is sin. From a Roman prison, Paul writes that he has “learned the secret of being content.” We can learn the secret by preaching the gospel to ourselves, adopting an attitude of gratitude, and choosing to be radically generous.
We all know that words can hurt us way more than “sticks and stones” can. The ninth commandment reveals the immense importance that God places on our words. James writes that the tongue has the power to direct our lives, and the lives of others. The problem we encounter is that we both bless God and curse people with our tongue. When we are honest about our dishonesty and accept Jesus as our Savior, we hear God say, “You are my child whom I love.” That truth gives our tongue the potential for us to become true witnesses for our neighbors.
We live in a world where stealing is prevalent and the means to how somebody steals is vast. The heart of the eighth commandment, “you shall not steal” leads us to consider if we have a consumer mindset. When a man named Achan stole, the entire Israelite nation suffered. If you want to fight the attitude of stealing in your heart, activate your hands in service! We look to our Servant-King who served us, and now calls us to serve others
Culture repeatedly says that sex and marriage don’t matter too much. The Biblical view is often seen as repressive and oppressive. When we discover why God created sex and marriage, we see a beautiful picture of the gospel. The seventh commandment was given to protect the sanctity of marriage. Only through the mercy of God and the salvation that is found in Jesus can we keep God’s command and experience the best sex of our lives.
We all know murder is a terrible thing. There’s good reason God gives the sixth commandment, “You shall not murder.” All life matters to God. Every person is created in His image and loved by Him! But there’s also more to this commandment. Jesus elevates this command by showing us how hurtful anger is just as severe as murder because it has the power to kill relationships. Because Jesus restored our relationship with God, we now have a choice – to hurt or to restore others. We can’t do it by trying harder – we need a new heart! The Gospel restores us so that we can restore others!
Every parent/child relationship is unique. How do we honor our parents when they fail us? For some, the thought of honoring their parents seems wrong because of neglect and abuse. God’s command becomes possible when we look to Him for strength and help. We are free to honor our parents in the Lord because God is our Father!
Do you ever feel like there isn’t enough time to accomplish everything in your week? The fourth commandment calls us to cease our work. The Sabbath is a reminder, a gift, and a sign. We can keep the Sabbath holy today by choosing to rest and worship one day a week. The best way to “make more time” is to slow down and keep God’s command to trust Him.
Names matter! We all understand the importance of a name. In the third commandment, God instructs is to not take his name in vain. We can easily break this command in our speech and our actions. When we claim to be a Christian but don’t live like God calls us to, we misuse the Lords Name. The best way to keep the third commandment is to KNOW God and SHOW God to the world around us.
All over society, we hear: “Be yourself.” This well-intentioned mantra is oftentimes a pretty disguise for the great lie that Satan has placed in this world: Create your own god. God reveals Who He is in the second commandment and warns against creating idols. Like the impatient Israelites, too often we can fashion for ourselves an image of God that we prefer. Jesus is the perfect image of the invisible God. When we choose to worship God for Who He is, He will make us more into His likeness.
Before God gave the people of Israel the Ten Commandments, He redeemed them from slavery in Egypt. His movement of saving grace is the same for us today: Redemption, Requirement, Reward. We do not obey the law to be saved; we obey because God already saved us! The first commandment is relational and forms the foundation for the commands that follow. We can determine who/what we are serving by identifying where we place our adoration, trust, invocation, and thanksgiving. Jesus is the only God worth living for!
The Christian faith isn’t based on teachings; it is based on a historical event: The Resurrection of Jesus. As we read an eyewitness account of the empty tomb, we will discover how the resurrection informs our heads, hearts, and hands. A woman named Mary experienced the gentleness of Jesus in a moment when she was despairing and searching for answers. Today, we are invited to know God personally because Jesus came to find us and make us new.
The crowd worshipped Jesus as He rode into Jerusalem. Yet He didn’t come riding in on a stallion; he rode a colt. He didn’t take the throne or overthrow Rome; he was nailed to the cross. The people expected a military King who would give them what they wanted. Jesus came gently and humbly to die for His people. This Palm Sunday, we ask, “Who/what is the king of my life?” We give praise for the Servant-King Jesus.
How can we no longer be paralyzed by uncertainty when it comes to sharing the gospel with others? You can make an eternal impact if you decide to bring others to Jesus. A man named Drew had no formal training in sharing his faith; he followed Jesus for less than one day. His decision to be a bringer completely changed his brother’s life. Discover the beauty of being someone who invites others to know God.
It’s easy to forget God when life gives us Hevel. As Ecclesiastes concludes, the author gives us a beautiful invitation on how we can remember God in the most confusing and challenging times of life. It’s foolish to walk away from Ecclesiastes and continue chasing the wind. Discover how to live a wise life that produces real, lasting impact!
Everyone is forming a personal identity. Too often we allow what we do (work) to have too much power in defining our worth. Do you enjoy your work? Does it have meaning? Does it have too much meaning? Let's discover God's plan for our work.
Do you ever feel like experiences come up short? You thought, "This would be the best meal ever. This relationship will make me feel complete. This new job will make me happy." What happens when pleasure doesn't satisfy us? Does God want us to be happy and satisfied? Join us as we discover three truths from the book of Ecclesiastes that point us to God's design for pleasure!
Why does searching for meaning in life often feel like chasing the wind? There are so many “crooked” things in this world: Injustice and suffering, wicked people prosper, good people die young. Discover a key truth that will help you navigate this overwhelming tension that comes with life's “meaningless” moments.
In Paul’s letter to the Philippians, he gives an impossible call-to-action: “Rejoice always!” How is that even possible? How can we choose joy in even the worst of situations? By reading Paul’s words, we learn three keys to enabling us to choose joy at all times. Best of all, you’re not alone! Through life-giving community, you can choose joy because Jesus chose you!
Imagine following Jesus in a way that causes others to say, “I want to know God too!” What does pursuing excellence look like as a Christian? In Paul’s letter to the Ephesians, he gives us the answer! Be on guard against a complacent, compromising, and concealing version of Christianity. Discover how to pursue excellence because Jesus pursued you!
It is incredibly hard to love someone who has wronged us. The thought of being reconciled may seem impossible. While the world says, "The best thing to do is forget that person," God has the power to enable us to forgive that person. As we explore Paul's letter to Philemon, we discover that we can love others freely because Jesus loves them!
Do you know your purpose in life? Too many people try to solve “the mystery of life” by accepting any path that offers answers. We are told that inclusivity and coexistence are the best ways to live. Paul wrote to a group of new believers in the city of Colossae to provide a solution to their problem of syncretism and Gnosticism. Discover the power of this truth: “Christ IN you, the hope of glory.” We can love God because Jesus is enough!
What will the end of the world look like? There have been countless movies and books written attempting to depict this. Jesus clearly told us exactly what to expect. Discover the hope that people who go All-In with Jesus have regarding the future. Every person is invited to experience all that God has planned. As we wait for Christ’s return, we have hope and continue serving Him faithfully!
We all have expectations for people in our life. What do you do when what you experience is different from what you expected? God provides a direct definition for what love is. If you want to truly love people, you need to discover the single most important choice that you will make in your relationships.
Complaining is normal. Whether we call it venting, unloading, or sharing, too often we can focus on what’s going wrong and carry a spirit of heaviness. Jesus came so that we could experience the blessing of a garment of praise. Paul & Silas were unjustly beaten and thrown in prison, and they chose to worship God. We discover five changes that take place when we put on a garment of praise of a spirit of heaviness.
Where do you go to for truth? People are hungry for “a higher power” to show them truth. Astrology, mediums, tarot cards, and the like have become more and more accepted, even among Christians. What does God say about going to these sources for truth? Paul’s experience in the ancient city of Ephesus shows us the very best place to scroll for truth. Discover why God’s Word is more powerful and true than anything else.
What do you do first when something negative happens? Do you find yourself worrying about everything? Going All-In with Jesus means we have the blessing to pray first! If something is big enough to worry about, it is big enough to pray about! Discover what prayer is, and why it is our first response.
How peaceful are you? We can find many ideas on how to have peace, but all of them hinge on us “keeping our own peace.” The Christmas Story declares that God gave us His Son, the Prince of Peace so that we could experience a complete, whole peace that never ends. Have you received Jesus? Your life will be forever changed when you decide to go All-In with Him!
Look around culture, and you will see the same message: A desperation for faithful fathers. Father wounds are so common. One of the names given to Jesus is Everlasting Father. As we look at the relationship between Jesus and Peter, we discover that Jesus is faithful. Despite Peter’s unbelief and abandonment, Jesus faithfully invited him to follow. We have received this same invitation today. When we follow Jesus, we experience his unconditional, faithful love.
The holidays are a time to celebrate. But let's be honest — not every holiday season feels merry and bright. But there is a truth that overcomes even the hardest moments of our lives. God is mightier than anything we’re facing in the past, present, or future. What if this Christmas, you found true rest knowing that Jesus is your Mighty God who can overcome any circumstance you are facing?
We all need good advice to succeed in life. Job decisions. Raising kids. Navigating relationships. But putting good advice into practice isn’t enough – we need something more in life to truly satisfy our souls. This Christmas season, let’s look at 8 reasons why Jesus is called “Wonderful Counselor.” He doesn’t just give good advice – He gives Good News that will change your life!
Giving is not an obligation — it is a privilege! With the right placement and the right patterns, you have the potential to be radically generous. How do we go from a single seed to being someone who produces more seeds? In Part 4 of Seed to Seeds, we’ll learn six things about Giving that will radically transform the way you respond to opportunities to be generous.
How are your financial habits? Are they healthy? We will never live radically generous if we maintain bad money patterns. As we walk through Psalm 23 we will discover God’s principles for our finances. Even if you’ve had the same old habits for years, you can lay them to rest today!
As a seed we can sprout and grow only when we are placed in fertile soil, when Jesus has control over all aspects of our lives. This message will encourage you to evaluate where you have put your treasure. What kind of soil are you in? Jesus describes 4 types of soil and only one produces fruit that multiples.
Often times the desire to be generous is squashed by the lie, “I don’t have enough.” How do we move from wanting to being radically generous? As we explore Jesus’ story of the loaned money, we discover that God has trusted every believer with the perfect amount of His resources to live a generous life. Radical generosity begins when we see our unique potential to make a difference through our giving.
On Sunday 10/24/21, Blaze Church gathered to worship Jesus as we normally do. God had a special plan, as He always does! Listen to this timely message for you today, and join us as we respond to this call to surrender ALL to Jesus.
Do you know how valuable you are? God was not afraid to get his hands dirty to show the world His love — including you! You were created on purpose for a purpose with intrinsic value. That means your worth is not defined by what you've done, but by the God who created you and who loves you!
*This is a special message from Pastor Mike Jankowski of The Harbor Church, based in Center Moriches, NY.
Money and drama fit together really well! But is money the true cause? When we are motivated by greed, we forfeit healthy relationships. Jesus warned that greed is very sneaky; too often we miss it in our own hearts. Jesus told a story of two sons who allowed greed in; they wanted the father’s stuff instead of the father himself. We discover that the way to cut down greed in our lives is to recognize the nearness of God. When we realize that God is close, we can trust Him to provide for us, and we can live radically generous!
Everyone knows how it feels to be hurt by a family member or close friend. Our normal response is to hurt back. This will always lead to family drama. Joseph had every right to hurt his brothers for what they did to him. He believed three truths that enabled him to forgive. When we choose to drop the rope, we take a step towards forgiving others.
How do you respond when you feel unloved by a family member? We can become aggressive, uncaring, or detached from people who “should” show us love but don’t. We may attempt to fill that inner-emptiness with love from another person, only to realize we are still hurting. As we read about Leah, we discover that the love of God has the power to lessen the pain we feel in moments when we feel unloved by others.
God wants you to have complete joy in life! The key to finding this is not through seeking to serve ourselves in life, but to serve others. When we choose an attitude of serving others, we experience God's heart for unity in the Church. Discover how you can take your next step to experiencing complete joy!
God has beautiful gifts for you! These gifts are given so that we might be the church that fits together to accomplish His purpose for the world. Discover the three gifts God has: Eternal Life, The Holy Spirit, and Spiritual Gifts. You were created on purpose, for a purpose, and God’s gifts will empower you to fulfill your unique purpose!
Is it possible to find true friendships today? Between social media “friends” and real-life “friends” who have lied and let us down, it can be tempting to give up on developing genuine friendships. Something in us longs for deeper relationships. As we look at a group of friends who carried their paralyzed friend to Jesus, we discover what gospel friendships are and why they matter. Blaze Church puts the priority on carrying one another, and that happens best in small groups!
Is worshipping Jesus alone at home what Jesus had in mind when he started the Church 2,000 years ago? With everything moving online, are in-person worship services needed any longer? In part 1 of our series, Rethinking The Church, you will discover what makes gathering together with other people in one space so special and so important.
What are you living for? Is it for the next promotion? The shopping spree? The approval of others? The perfect family life? Ultimately, everyone is going to fall into two categories. We are either living for something that is demanding our life or living for something that is giving us life! We’ll look at the life of Saul from the Bible and the character Peter from the movie Hook to discovery our last truth that only Jesus is worth living for because he is the only thing that will give us life!
What do you do when trouble comes? God’s will is for us to be spiritually equipped so we are ready for when the battle comes. Let’s look at this week’s movie, Jurassic Park, and Paul’s words in Ephesians 6 to find out what tools God gives us to stand strong in the storms of life.
As we follow the characters in the famous '90s movie "Toy Story" we discover 4 truths to loving our enemies. We were once enemies of God but He reconciled us back to himself and because of this truth, we can love our enemies. Join us in seeing how Buzz & Woody go from enemies to friends!
Why do some people seem to pray so well and other people struggle to start? If you’ve said, “I want to pray like that” you’re not alone. By looking at the story of Naaman we discover four essential qualities of prayer. This message is the first part of our At The Movies 90s Edition series. We will be enjoying clips from Angels In The Outfield.
If you ever feel like worry and anxiety taking over your life, you aren't alone. But how do we overcome the constant anxious feelings? Discover the power that prayer has to transform your life in Week 4 of Winning the War in Your Mind!
Do you ever look at what’s going on around you and wonder how to escape the negativity? Maybe it’s not your circumstances that need to change—it’s your mindset. Join us for Week 3 of Winning the War in Your Mind with Pastor @Craig Groeschel to learn how to embrace positive thinking and change your perspective.
Sometimes no matter what we do, we make the wrong decision. It’s as though we have the wires crossed in our minds.
The truth is, our lives are always moving in the direction of our strongest thoughts. So how do you change your thinking so you can change your life?
We’ve all tried to think our way out of bad habits and unhealthy thought patterns, only to find ourselves stuck with an out-of-control mind and off-track daily life. But God has something better for your life than your old ways of thinking. It’s time to decide to change your thinking so God can change your life.
The pursuit of happiness is best accomplished through independence. That is the narrative of society. God calls us to trust Him with all of our hearts! How do we depend on God when doing so requires us sacrificing our plans? By exploring the moment where God called Abraham to sacrifice his son Isaac, we discover that knowing God’s plan, provision, and power is what we need to fully depend on Him. The pursuit of happiness ceases when we believe that Jesus came to earth to pursue us.
Following Jesus was never meant to be comfortable. If we are going to love our neighbors, we need to be ready to step out for God. Time short, eternity is long, and souls matter! We were not created to be ordinary; God has a purpose for your life! Discover how you can bring God's love to your neighbors in the final part of our series Backyard Church.
Our world is saturated by fear. News reports highlight the worst of events. How are we supposed to love our neighbors when we are afraid of them? The Israelites allowed fear to prevent them from entering the promised land. Years later, they discovered what they thought their neighbors thought about them wasn’t even true! When we fear the Lord, fear of others disappears. The remedy to being afraid of our neighbors is to rest in the perfect love of God.
“I don’t have time.” It’s a phrase everyone has used at some point. But is it true? When it comes to loving our neighbors, time is the biggest barrier. Everyone makes time for what matters most to them. Martha and Mary teach us that being with Jesus is more important than doing for Jesus. The reason we aren’t making time for our neighbors is because we aren’t making time for Jesus! When we invest time with Jesus, we will love our neighbors the way He does.
What if when Jesus said, “Love your neighbor” he meant your literal neighbor? Too often, we apply the churchy answer for the question “Who is my neighbor?” When we do that, we end up with metaphorical love for metaphorical neighbors. We love our neighbors in response to Jesus “moving into the neighborhood” and loving us. The first step to loving someone is knowing their name. Discover how you can change your neighborhood for Jesus.
Is God working or sleeping? Too often it feels like nothing good is happening. The story of Ruth ends with a redeemer sacrificing himself for the good of others. We discover that God was at work the entire time in the life of Naomi. Because of Jesus, we can reject bitterness and compromise, and trust that God is always working, even when we don’t see it.
Who’s plan are you following for your romantic relationship choices? This world offers a very different path to take than the one God has laid out for you. Ruth approaches Boaz not for sex, but desiring covenant marriage. As we see their interaction unfold, we discover important truths that will guide us in a world that is filled with promiscuity. We can confidently run to God for mercy and grace as we choose to honor him with our lives.
What causes you to be kind? Culturally, there could be ulterior motives that drive us to act kind, but what does kindness look like as a Christ-follower? As we explore Ruth chapter 2, we see a picture of kindness that points us directly to God’s ultimate act of kindness: Sending Jesus to die in our place for us to know God unconditionally. Our relationship with Him produces a kindness that only He can give.
How do you respond when hard moments come? Naomi's family chose to leave the land of promise and go to the land of compromise. She endured losing her husband and her two sons. More than that, she lost sight of God as Faithful Provider. Despite all this, God remained faithful and visited his people and specifically Naomi. Discover that God is always working out His redemptive plan in our lives. No matter what you go through, nothing can stop the faithful provision of God.
Did Jesus resurrect? If he didn’t Christianity has no basis for its beliefs. If you doubt the resurrection, so did Mary and the other disciples. But do the critiques of the resurrection of Jesus really hold any weight when stacked against the historical evidence of this event? Discover why we can be sure that Jesus did resurrect and how it changes everything.
Does suffering prove that God doesn’t exist? Does it prove that God is not powerful, or not good? Every worldview has to address the problem of suffering. Only Christianity offers the promise that when we suffer, we do not suffer alone. Because Christ suffered on the cross, we have received an inheritance that one day, all pain and evil will be done away with. Discover the problem, purpose, and promise of suffering in part three of our series, I Have My Doubts.
Doesn’t the Bible condone some horrible practices, like slavery & polygamy. Isn’t it oppressive and out of touch with our modern ways regarding marriage and family units? How can we believe that the Bible is reliable and relevant? The first skeptics of the Bible after Jesus resurrected were disciples. Discover three actions to take when we doubt the validity of the Bible.
No one likes to be told they are wrong. Inclusiveness is celebrated; exclusivity is seen as narrow-minded. What do we do with the claim Jesus made when he said, “I AM the Way”? Culture attempts to embrace inclusion by saying all religions are the same, or each religion only sees one part of the whole. The gospel is an invitation to extend your hands towards the One who was wounded to save you.
Life is going to get out of control at times. How do you respond? In those moments, it is easy to be overcome by doubt. One of the apostles, Thomas, couldn’t believe that Jesus was alive after He had been crucified. Jesus met Thomas in his doubt and loved Him. Discover four things we can do in moments when we doubt.
In a world that glamorizes and celebrates influencers, achievements, and accolades - it is so easy for us to live for power. In our attempts to be recognized as the best, we can become slaves to the people around us. King Herod's desperation to maintain power fueled his decision to have John the Baptist beheaded. God alone is able to draw us out of the maze of power through His loving-kindness.
Do you have your “routine”; your “comfort zone”? What would make you change it? King Solomon longed to fulfill pleasures by temporary things on earth and forgot that his true comforter, the Lord, is the only one who could satisfy. King Solomon made little concessions and allowed others, overtime, to turn his heart away from God. Identifying areas in our lives that need repentance and spending daily time with God through his word will guard our hearts from the idol of comfort. God should always be at the center. He put us first by sending Jesus to die for us, so that we always have access to the one and only comforter!
No one likes to not be liked. But living for the approval of others can destroy us! King Saul forgot the approval he already had when the Lord anointed him as king. He blamed others to protect his reputation. Remembering that we have been approved of by God through Jesus empowers us to live in obedience to the One who loves us. This simple truth is truly liberating: God loves you!
Why do wise people make dumb decisions? It’s easy to blame a person, a situation, or even an object for our own choices. But the truth is, we make decisions based on what we are living for. Every person is capable of serving Jesus or an idol. Discover what you’re living for and determine if it will produce wise or dumb decisions.
If your main goal is your kid's obedience, you're settling for something less than and you're setting yourself up to have anger stirred up regularly. Instead of obedience being the objective, there's a long-term target that will go a long way toward winning as a parent.
When our kids mess up, our tendency is to take something away from them. However, punishment shouldn't be the end goal of discipline. Restoration should be. Paul builds on his definition of love by showing us the need for kindness. Without a culture of honor, we cannot discipline our kids the way God invites us to.
Moms and dads dream of a future where their kids become adults and still want to come home regularly to visit. As parents, there’s something we can do to lay the foundation for that dream to become a reality.
Ideal can seem out of reach, and it sometimes feels easier to put it out of sight. Part of being a parent is to point our children toward the ideal, while at the same time navigating what is real.
How do we handle grief? Everyone experiences loss. In a pandemic season, many of us have pushed grieving aside. Discover a Biblical pattern for grieving. We are joined by Sue Alford, a licensed therapist with more than fifteen years of experience. By looking at Jesus in the garden, we will see how God invites us to grieve.
Is it possible to not get angry? How can we respond when other people hurt us? Jesus said that anger is as deadly as murder. Jesus is inviting us to live differently because of the righteousness that He offers. Today, you can be free from hating other people. There is a way to live in God’s Kingdom that is filled with love and forgiveness.
What’s the one thing you wish you could stop? We’ve all got areas in our lives where we are trying to find freedom. Jesus calls us to love God with all of our heart, soul, and mind. How can this happen? Only through the daily encouragement of other believers can we truly live the abundant lives Jesus gives. We love one another when we choose to connect, protect, and grow with each other. This happens at Blaze Church through small groups.
Is it important to share the gospel with others? Too often telling people about Jesus is on our “I’ll do it tomorrow” list. Jesus taught his disciples that there are opportunities every day to lead someone to know God. In his time with the Samaritan woman, Jesus shows us exactly how to share God’s love with others. True nourishment comes when we blaze the way for people to know God!
Why do some Christians lack joy? How come we don’t all experience miracles, even though Jesus said He came to give us an abundant life? Jesus told his disciples they were unbelieving and perverse when they couldn’t heal a child. Discover the way to have a stronger connection with God and experience the joy of seeing God make the impossible possible!
Too many people are defined by their disgrace. Moments of failure have the potential to mark us and make us believe that God’s plan to use us in a great way have been canceled. The story of Zechariah shows that God is gracious, so we don’t have to prove ourselves. Jesus came to show us God’s amazing grace so that we could be forgiven. God is graciously blessing you so that you can be a blessing!
While the holiday season can be filled with joyous moments, there is also the potential for the “dark side of Christmas” to overwhelm us. The things that are not going the way we planned; the broken aspects of our world that still exist. Every person is going to suffer; following Jesus empowers us to suffer well. By believing that God is glorious, we can trust that what we go through will never cancel the plans that God has for us!
No one likes to lose control. How do we respond when things don’t go the way we want? The plans Mary and Joseph had to be married were disrupted when God announced that Mary would be pregnant with Jesus. They responded with surrender, not because they were great, but because God is great. When we believe the second eternal truth, we can trust that God is always in control.
There is always a temptation to settle while waiting. It’s easy to conclude that God will cancel his promise, when we don’t see the fulfillment. By looking at Abraham’s life, we discover that God always does what He says, not because we are good, but because He is good! Christmas is the proof that God keeps his promises! As redeemed people, filled with God’s Spirit, we don’t have to settle while we wait.
We are conditioned for immediate gratification. From Netflix to Amazon Prime, too many people are living for today with no thought about tomorrow. How can we manage our money in a way that sets us up for a good future? As we conclude our series, Making Change, we will discover that being faithful with what we have today, leads to rewards tomorrow!
There is something so special about giving. It fills us with joy in a way that consumption never can. Too often we don’t give because we really don’t know what giving is. Paul wrote to a group of churches and provided six definitions of giving. Discover our third financial principle: Giving is good!
“I am so glad I have so much debt,” said no one ever. No one wants to be stressed with debt, yet so many people are! How can we get out of debt? Discover how to live with gazelle intensity! Embrace three important prayers to pray when getting yourself out of debt. Remember, no amount of work can pay off our sin debt; Jesus paid it in full!
Greed is one of those things that none of us have, but we all know someone who does. That's why Jesus said, "Watch Out!" In his parable and his teaching, Jesus shows us how we can live with a less is more attitude by storing up treasures in heaven.
How do you solve problems? Everyone is going to face problems; what we do matters! While King David was on the run from his son, he wrote a song to God. In it, we find five areas that we need to understand in order to solve problems. Our trust and hope need to be found in God alone! As we approach another election, we cannot expect anyone to fix problems that only Jesus can take care of!
What does it mean for a church to have healthy spiritual leadership? Scripture is filled with teaching on how pastors and leaders are called to live godly lives. When that happens, the church is called to submit in a way that propels the church to grow. Pastor Brian McMillan encourages Blaze Church to live what God has instructed so that we can continue to blaze the way for more people to Know God!
No one likes to wait. We are told that waiting is a waste of time. But waiting on God is always worth it! In Psalm 40, we discover the four blessings that come when we wait patiently on the Lord!
We all have bad days. How do we respond? Where do bring our sadness? In this Psalm of Lament, we see the song writing sharing a raw, authentic prayer with God. We are invited to cast all of our anxiety on God, because He cares for us! No matter what we go through, we can be sure that the wrath of God will not placed on us - Jesus took it to the cross! Allow your emotions to point you to the One Who made you and loves you!
Jesus told a story of a king throwing a big party. His guests refused to come, so the king invited people who were overlooked to attend. Jesus shows us the gospel that declares everyone is invited, and everyone is given the ability to respond. As servants of the king, we have the privilege of telling everyone we know that they are invited to know God! We are celebrating five years as a church, and are believing that the next five will be filled with more of God’s grace and favor!
God has created you to do good works. Too often we know what to do, but we struggle with doing it. The Jewish people prayed the SHEMA twice a day to remind themselves to love God. Jesus declared that the greatest commandment was to love God AND love people. Our love is responsive; God first loved us. Is God’s love in you causing you to love people around you? Discover the only motivation for you to make a difference in this world.
No one enjoys being stuck in life. So many people are searching for purpose and meaning. As believers, our purpose is not found horizontally, it is found by looking to Jesus. He gives us an abundant life, and through the Holy Spirit, provides us with gifts so that we can live with purpose! Lock eyes with Jesus and discover the purpose God has for you!
Enjoy our cover of the song "Egypt"
Copyrights 2019 Cory Asbury Publishing Be Essential Songs EGH Music Publishing Phil Wickham Music Simply Global Songs Sing My Songs Bethel Music Publishing
Blaze Church CCLI # 11420924
Trying to break a habit or addiction can be frustrating when we keep falling. Why do we continue to sin after we’ve been saved? After God got Israel out of Egypt, He then provided a way to get Egypt out of them! Jesus declared that whoever He sets free is fully free. Too often, we use our freedom to satisfy our flesh - the part of us that is still being renewed. Transformation happens best in community! Small groups are the environment where we can find freedom, and become the new creations God has declared that we are!
What is the most important thing in your life? There is nothing more important than knowing God. Many of us are living in Egypt; the place where our identity and mission is not God-first. God used plagues and Passover to bring the Jewish people out of Egypt. Christ is our Passover lamb who gets us out of Egypt by His own blood. Don’t settle for an empty way of life. Respond to God’s great love for you by believing in His Son!
Have you ever been scared to share the gospel with someone? Is every follower of Jesus called to invite people to know God? Jesus said there are more people who don’t know God than there are “workers” who will carry the Good News Discover what Jesus meant when He called His followers salt and light. Learn how to build a healthy habit of sharing your faith in Part Three of our series Essential Worker: Salty & Lit.
It’s the best selling book of all time. 82% of all households have at least one copy of it. What is it? The Bible. How can we understand a book that was written thousands of years ago? What difference does it make in our lives today? Discover what the Bible is, why we can trust what’s written, and how important a healthy habit of Bible reading is.
What is your first response when things happen throughout the day? Imagine how your life would be different if you chose to pray first. Prayer is a personal, communicative response to the knowledge of God. When we pray, we are changed and prepared for results. Discover the answer Jesus gave his disciples when they said, “Teach us to pray.”
Who are you trying to impress? We all have a tendency to want to "dress up" as more successful or put together than we actually are. Aladdin was a street rat. He believed the only way to be accepted was to become Prince Ali. Jacob, like Aladdin, was born worthless. His name meant deceiver, worthless, second-best. God met Jacob, and in His goodness, He changed his identity. We discover that we don't have to dress up and try to impress God. The gospel declares that we aren't good enough; but God loves us! You are invited to throw away our pretending and lying, and embrace the new nature Jesus has given us.
Where do you go in your weakness? Do you tend to retreat, shutdown, or distract yourself from a problem? Elijah ran away out of fear and needed reminding that his Heavenly Father’s love is always available in times of weakness. Elijah’s story points us to Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice in his time of weakness so that we can delight knowing that our Father in heaven and Holy Spirit is with us even in the most difficult times.
There are systems in our world that are broken. In our personal lives, many of us have pasts that are filled with pain and hurt. How do we forgive others? How do we treat other people who are different than us? Through Paul’s letter to Philemon, we discover that barriers, no matter how strong they appear, come crashing down in light of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Reconciliation is possible when we embrace the truth that all people are equally in need of God’s grace.
What do we do with a terrible ending? When a movie ends terribly, we leave a bad review and move on. But moving on in real life isn’t so easy. John the Baptist started out with a promising career. But his life ended terribly when his followers left him, he was imprisoned, he doubted Jesus, and was ultimately executed. Terrible endings cannot undo the destiny God has for your story to bring Him glory. When Christ is the center, even in the terrible endings you can still believe in the faithfulness of God.
We all face hopeless situations. What do we do in moments where there seems to be no way out. Two people came to Jesus and discovered that His voice is what’s needed most when life feels hopeless. Hope comes from the One who saved us. God is constantly speaking. We have the privilege to know His voice and experience hope in the hardest seasons of life.
Why is it so hard to match our actions with our best intentions? The people of Israel vowed to keep their covenant to God, but after Nehemiah left, they broke their promises. Nehemiah returned and redirected their hearts towards honoring God. Paul wrote that what he wants to do he doesn't do because of our sinful nature. In Jesus there is freedom. As we surrender to the power of the Holy Spirit we can live a life where our intentions match our actions.
Who gets the credit when you accomplish something great? It’s tempting to be filled with pride and boast of your achievements. After completing the wall, Nehemiah led the people to give God praise. Embrace a humble attitude. Recognize that all you have comes from God. Make the first phrase you say after completing a goal: “You did this!”
If we could only stay focused, there’s no telling what we could accomplish together! But distractions always seem to get in the way. This week let’s learn how to shut the door on distractions as we chase the calling God has in our lives. Enjoy this inspiring message from Craig Groeschel, lead pastor of Life Church.
“We’ve always done it this way.” It’s a phrase that reveals the patterns in our life. What patterns need changing? God has the best plan for you. Nehemiah chose to not follow the path of his predecessors. Out of reverence for God, he acted differently. The new normal in your life as a believer involves presentation, separation, transformation, and demonstration. Jesus came to serve and establish a new way of living. Discover purpose by serving like Him!
Whenever you step out to rebuild, you need to expect opposition. Following Jesus in obedience means the enemy will oppose you. Nehemiah responded to the opposition by taking it God and fighting for others. Your God is fighting for you, and Christ has won the victory! Overcoming opposition is possible as you remain dedicated to the call God has for your life.
When we want to start rebuilding, it can be very tempting to bypass a critical step in the rebuild process of our lives: Inspection. You know what’s broken in your life and you have a vision to rebuild, but now it's time to inspect. Nehemiah took time alone with God to inspect the brokenness of the city walls and gates. Have we allowed just a little bit of sin in our lives? Are we living without self-control and limits? Jesus promised that the Holy Spirit would be “the Great Inspector” to convict us of our sin and point us to Jesus. To rebuild your life, you need a life inspection.
Once we have identified what needs fixing in our world, we need to act! What is God calling you to do about the brokenness? You need a God-given vision for your life! If you can’t define it, you can’t do it! Every person was created on purpose for a purpose. Through Nehemiah, we discover that making a vision become reality involves a purpose, planning, and Providence. The result of your obedience has the potential to impact more people than you can imagine!
Nehemiah was an ordinary person who hit a breaking point when he saw a need. Before you can build, you have to have a burden. Rebuilding involves: Sitting down to cry, kneeling down to pray, and standing up to act. God is your Redeemer! There is no part of your life that is too broken that He cannot restore!
Too often we allow what we are facing to be the lens that we view life through. Our perspective is shaped by our situation. What can change our perspective? Praise! While Paul was in prison, he chose to praise God. He didn’t need a breakthrough to begin praising; his assurance and hope was in the saving work of Jesus! Through Christ, God has set us free from sin. This is our reason to praise Him!
How do you find peace and when living a life of anxiety? When fear and worry grip your hearts? Philippians 4:4-7 promises peace that “transcends all understanding”. How can we find peace that only God can give when your mind is racing and you can’t focus because of anxious thoughts?. We learn from the story of Daniel that prayer is our first response! Use anxiety as an alert to start praying and as 1 Thessalonians 5:17 states it: never stop praying. Daniel surrendered to and trusted God in everything and was met with salvation from the lion’s den. But Daniel’s story points us to Jesus, who surrendered to the Father, was faithful to the end, and died for our sins so that we can have a relationship with God through prayer and scripture.
Everyone is prone to worry. At its root, worry is forgetfulness. Jesus taught a large crowd of worriers how they could overcome. By looking at the birds and the flowers He showed us that when we worry we forget our value, our Father, and our purpose. What would your life be like if you could forget to worry?! Replace worry with worship by trusting in the God who is in full control.
All of us know what it is like to be overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, and fear and play out scenarios in our minds. We can allow the worst-case scenario to be the narrative that shapes us; but how often do those worries come true? From prison, Paul wrote, “Be anxious for nothing.” Elijah experienced God’s power, protection, provision, and presence, yet he made four mistakes we can make that lead us to live with anxiety. Discover why even the worst-case scenarios aren’t bad for believers. Because of Jesus, we can trust that the Lord is near!
There are three key parts of our lives: Identity, Mission, and Vision. Apart from Jesus, each one of those pieces is temporary and can be lost without any notice. The resurrected Savior appeared to Peter and the disciples for “The Last Breakfast” on the beach. It was there that he restored Peter after he denied Him three times. Because Jesus is alive, we can live with a sure hope that not even death can take away! Everyone who believes and accepts Jesus receives eternal life!
Life is messy. It seems like all of our plans from last month won’t work this month as we continue to navigate COVID-19. Following Jesus in the messes of life can be messy too! So what should we do? By healing the man born blind, Jesus gives us some incredible truths to guide us in the mess. The gospel leads us to ask more vertical questions and less horizontal questions. The One who said, “Let there be light” declares “Let there be sight” so we can trust God in the mess. We will see miracles as we walk by faith. Spiritual blindness is cured as we look to Jesus!
How do we navigate the storms of life? COVID-19 is continuing to spread and with it, so is fear. We can reach in: to muscle up and find our solution in ourselves. We can reach out: lean on the power of other people. We can reach up: trust in the I AM and allow Him to take control. The disciples were in the middle of nowhere in a storm when the water walker appeared. They “let him in the boat” and immediately arrived where they were going. The result of giving Jesus control is arriving on the shore of peace.
How do you respond when a BIG crisis happens? It is so easy to be overwhelmed by the immensity of a situation, that we become self-focused and do nothing to help others. When the problem is too big and the resources are too small, the stage is set for a miracle! Jesus already knows what He is going to do! We can trust Him, live generously, and become waiters that meet the needs of others! God gave his first and his best by sending Jesus to this world to be lifted up on a cross so we could be saved!