Agape Baptist Church | Scottsboro, Alabama

Jeremiah, the “weeping prophet,” confronts Israel's idolatry and spiritual adultery while pointing to God's mercy and promise of restoration. This message calls us to examine the altars in our own lives and return to wholehearted devotion to the Lord.

On this episode of the "Real Life with Christ Podcast," Jonathan welcomes his mother-in-law, Sherry, back after a recording error. They joke about the technical mishap, framing it as a "trial run" and an opportunity to go more in-depth. Sherry recounts a traumatic childhood memory at age two. She also shares that as a child, she felt a pull toward church despite her family not attending. Sherry reveals other painful parts of her past, including a complicated relationship with her parents and a lack of connection with her siblings.She discusses how these traumas created a lack of self-confidence and trust issues that affected her relationships. The conversation highlights the power of God in mending broken relationships and using past hurts for His glory. She emphasizes that her testimony is intended to help others and that her experiences serve as a testament to the transformative power of faith.

The book of Zephaniah pulls no punches. It announces God's coming judgment on sin—both for His people and the nations around them. In this message, we explore Zephaniah's sobering warning, the reasons for God's judgment, and the hope that still shines through for those who seek Him in humility.

The book of Habakkuk offers a raw, honest conversation between a prophet and his God—a dialogue full of questions, confusion, and eventually, trust. In a time of national crisis and personal doubt, Habakkuk boldly brings his complaints before the Lord, only to be reminded of God's unfailing sovereignty. This message explores how faith is not the absence of questions, but the decision to trust God even when the answers don't come. Habakkuk teaches us how to move from worry to worship, from fear to faith, and from confusion to confidence in God's perfect plan.

In today's message, we turn to Luke 15 to discover the heart of the Father for those who have wandered far from Him. No matter how deep the shame, how long the road, or how broken the life, His grace, mercy, and love are ready to meet us the moment we turn in repentance. And when even one sinner comes home, all of heaven erupts in rejoicing.

In this message, Freedom Forge Director John Yassu brings a stirring call to action, Preparing Our Hearts for Freedom Forge. John challenges us to trust God's transforming power, embrace the mission of Freedom Forge, and step forward in faith to see lives restored and chains broken.

Nahum reminds us: God's mercy is real, but so is His justice. One city experienced both. One decision can change everything. This message challenges you to consider your own response—today.

Are you tired of chasing feelings or striving to prove your faith? In this message from John 15:12–17, hear our guest speaker, Noah Moon, explain how abiding in Christ frees you from performance-driven religion and emotional rollercoasters. Learn how the evidence of true faith is love for one another, the motivation is friendship with Jesus, and the root is being chosen by God. It's time to move from striving to abiding.

Micah's message cuts through empty religion and calls us back to what God really wants—lives shaped by worship that overflows into justice, mercy, and humility. Discover how true worship transforms us into people who make a difference in the lives of others and reflect God's heart in a broken world.

Is the Bible merely a guide to help us cope with life—or is it something far greater? In this message from the book of Isaiah, we explore how a distorted view of Scripture leads to a distorted view of God. Discover how Isaiah calls us to lift our eyes beyond ourselves and be captivated by the glory of God. Because when we realize we exist for Him—not the other way around—everything changes.

In this message on the story of Hosea, we uncover a love story unlike any other—one that exposes the devastating self-harm of idolatry and the relentless grace of God.

This episode of "The Real Life with Christ" features Jonathan and co-host Matt Whitehead, who shares his testimony and the ever changing landscape of his spiritual journey. Matt reveals he was once detained at Miami Airport for attempting to bring a machete through security and can solve a Rubik's Cube in under 30 seconds. He discusses his upbringing in the church and also speaks candidly about his college years.  Matt emphasizes the powerful connection between music and faith, noting how music impacts the soul and can be a means of glorifying God and building relationships. All of this while Jonathan tries to get back in the saddle again after a long break from podcasting. 

In the book of Amos, God confronts a people who kept all the outward appearances of worship while their hearts were far from Him. They sang the songs, offered the sacrifices, and gathered for worship — but beneath the surface, they were consumed by idolatry, greed, and injustice. Real worship is not measured by songs sung but by lives surrendered — lives marked by justice, mercy, and wholehearted devotion.

In this message, we explore the essential foundation every child needs: unconditional love, consistent structure, deep roots, and the freedom to soar. Drawing from 3 John 4 and practical wisdom, we'll look at how godly parenting moves through seasons—offering care, setting boundaries, nurturing identity, and empowering independence. Whether you're raising toddlers or launching teens, this message will encourage and equip you to parent with purpose from the ground up.

In this message, we explore the story of Jonah—not as a tale of a reluctant prophet and a big fish, but as a revelation of God's heart. God's call for Jonah to preach to Nineveh wasn't just a mission—it was a message: He is a God of compassion, slow to anger, and abounding in love—even for His enemies. Discover how Jonah's story challenges our assumptions about who deserves grace and calls us to reflect that same mercy in our own lives.

In this message from 2 Kings, we explore the vital role of the prophet in Israel's history—a voice of truth in the midst of chaos, calling God's people back to Him. Just as God raised up prophets then, He has empowered the Church today to be His witness in a broken world. Now, as then, God will not be left without a voice.

In a world filled with distractions, pleasures, and countless pursuits, life can often feel empty or meaningless. In Ecclesiastes, we discover the powerful truth that God is the God of purpose—bringing significance and clarity to every part of our lives.

Featuring music by Rick Whitehead and testimony by Dianne Thomas

On this special Mother's Day message from Proverbs, we reflect on how God's wisdom is passed down through the loving instruction of parents, especially mothers. Highlighting the virtue of prudence, we'll see how wise parenting shapes hearts, forms character, and anchors the next generation in God's truth. Discover how nurturing, discipline, and everyday guidance become powerful tools in God's hands to build a legacy of wisdom.

In a world confused about love, desire, and intimacy, the Song of Solomon offers a refreshing, God-inspired vision of romance. In this message, we explore how this poetic book teaches us to honor attraction, embrace covenant love, and pursue intimacy God's way. Whether you're single, dating, or married, discover how to navigate love with wisdom, passion, and purpose.

In the book of 1 Kings, Solomon stands as a powerful example of both extraordinary wisdom and devastating folly. While famed for his discernment, wealth, and leadership, Solomon's life also vividly demonstrates that wisdom alone is insufficient without proper worship. 

On Easter Sunday, we celebrate the risen Christ—not only the victory of the cross and the empty tomb, but the exaltation of Jesus as the Name above every name. In Philippians 2:6–11, we see the stunning arc of Christ's humility, sacrifice, and triumph. Though fully God, Jesus emptied Himself and took on flesh, embracing the cross for our salvation. But the story doesn't end there—God has highly exalted Him and given Him the name before which every knee will bow.

As Jesus approached Jerusalem, every step was perfectly timed. In this Palm Sunday message, we explore the events leading up to the Triumphal Entry and how Christ arrived right on time—not a moment too early or too late—to fulfill the will of His Father. Along the way, we unpack the rich meaning behind the three Greek words for time—chronos, kairos, and aion—and discover how Palm Sunday reminds us that God's timing is always intentional, redemptive, and worth trusting.

In this message, we explore the entire book of Psalms, uncovering how these ancient songs provide language for worship in every season of life. From deep sorrow to triumphant praise, the Psalms teach us to live honestly before God, expressing our pain and joy with raw authenticity. Discover how these timeless verses shape a life of worship, no matter the circumstance.

In this message, we dive into 2 Samuel to explore the tragic story of King David's compromise and how it set the stage for his downfall. From small concessions to major moral failures, we uncover how David's choices led him into sin and consider the powerful lessons this narrative holds for our own lives. Join us as we examine the consequences of compromise and discover how God's grace meets us even in our darkest moments.

Life's trials can leave us feeling abandoned, but the book of Ruth reminds us that God is faithfully at work—even when we don't see it. Through the struggles of Naomi, Ruth, and Boaz, we discover that God's providence often unfolds through the relationships He places in our lives.

The book of Judges reveals a sobering truth: When we forget God, we forfeit His peace. Over and over, Israel fell into a tragic cycle of sin, oppression, and desperation, only to cry out for deliverance when life became unbearable. This episode explores how spiritual amnesia leads to moral chaos and why remembering God's faithfulness is the key to breaking destructive patterns.

In this message, we dive into the book of Joshua to discover how God reveals Himself as both the God of victory and the giver of rest. Israel's journey—from crossing the Jordan to conquering the land—reminds us that true victory comes not through human effort but through faithful obedience and fellowship with God.

Life is full of change—but how do we transition with faith, courage, and stability? In this message, we kick off a new series on Joshua, exploring God's call on his life at 80 years old. Drawing from Joshua 1 and powerful insights on leadership and transition, we'll discover how God prepares us for change through obedience in the little things.

As Israel stands on the edge of the Promised Land, Moses passionately calls the new generation to faithfulness. He urges them to remember God's covenant, obey His commands, and avoid the faithlessness that kept their parents from entering His promise. In this message, we explore the book of Deuteronomy, where Moses calls God's people to respond with love, obedience, and trust—choosing life and blessing over rebellion and curse.

The book of Numbers reveals that God is a God of perseverance. Despite Israel's rebellion, complaints, and failures, He remains faithful to His promise. He gives His people what they ask for, but in His mercy, He also provides what they genuinely need. During the wilderness journey, we see the necessity of His wisdom, the power of our choices, and the beauty of His character as He leads, disciplines, and ultimately delivers His people to fulfill His redemptive plan.

Many people see Leviticus as a book of obscure laws and sacrifices, but at its heart, it's a story of grace. In this sermon, we explore how God provided a way for His people to worship and dwell in His presence once again. Through the sacrifices, priesthood, and laws of holiness, Leviticus points us to Jesus—the ultimate sacrifice who makes us clean and brings us near to God. 

Sit in His presence, lift your voice, and rejoice together as we sing His truth and celebrate His glory during this powerful Night of Worship.

In this message, we explore how God responds to our fears, how He refuses to let excuses stand in the way of His mission, and how trusting in His power, rather than our own abilities, leads to obedience and transformation. If you've ever felt unqualified, tune in and be encouraged—God's calling is not about what you lack but about who He is.

In this message, we journey through the book of Exodus to witness God's unmatched power. From the plagues of Egypt to the parting of the Red Sea, we see how God reveals Himself as the mighty deliverer, a covenant-keeping redeemer, and the One who brings His people from bondage to freedom.

In the wilderness, it's easy to feel lost, forgotten, and frustrated—but what if the wilderness is where God meets us most profoundly? In this message from Exodus 2-3, we explore how God revealed Himself to Moses in his season of obscurity and transformed it into a moment of calling and purpose. Discover how God is present even in life's barren places, shaping us for His plans. Don't begrudge the wilderness—embrace it as the sacred ground where God is at work.

What if God loves you enough to permit suffering to redefine parts of your life? What if the worst this world can do is open the door to God's presence so that you know Him better? These are just a few of the lessons from the book of Job.

In this episode, titled Prayer Puter-Outers, we dive into the power-packed verses of 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, where the Apostle Paul exhorts us to rejoice always, pray continually, and give thanks in all circumstances.

In the opening message of the HIStory series, we dive into Genesis, the book that lays the foundation for the entire Bible. Explore the God of Promise as He creates the world, establishes His covenant with humanity, and begins His redemptive plan through the patriarchs.

In describing the Magi finding Jesus, God reveals His desire and design for the nations to worship Jesus.

In this message, we explore how Jesus' rule brings true and lasting peace to a broken world and how you can personally experience the peace He offers, even in life's challenges.

Through the lens of the Christmas story, we'll see how trusting in God's power and promises can transform our lives, bringing hope, redemption, and the assurance that with Him, nothing is impossible.

The Good News of Christmas is that Jesus has come to reveal God's plan personally.