Arrows Church Weekend Audio Messages. Arrows Church is located in Papillion, Nebraska and is a place where Everybody's Welcome, Nobody's Perfect, and with Jesus Anything's Possible.
We all face trials—but how should followers of Jesus respond when life falls apart?This week we kick off our summer series in the book of James: A Faith That Works. James doesn't ease us in—he starts with a bold command that feels upside-down: “Count it all joy when you meet trials of various kinds.”In this message, we explore what James really means by joy in the midst of hardship, how trials can grow spiritual grit (steadfastness), and what it looks like to become whole and complete in Christ—not just survive suffering, but be shaped by it.We'll also see how Jesus is both our example and our hope—He endured the ultimate trial for the joy set before Him… and that joy was you.Whether you're in a trial right now or walking alongside someone who is, this message is a call to anchor your faith—not in feelings, but in the unshakable love and presence of Christ.Need Prayer?
Purity isn't about our past…it's about our pursuit! Sex is God's idea, meant to be enjoyed within marriage, not feared or shamed. Fear-based and purity culture teachings that focus only on virginity have proven to be ineffective. True intimacy comes from emotional health, trust, and selfless love in marriage. Healing and a fresh start are always possible through Christ.Need Prayer?
You don't drift into intimacy — you talk your way there. Healthy communication is the foundation of every emotionally strong relationship. In this message, we explore how your words can either build a bridge or leave a scar. Ask yourself: Do you want your spouse to hear what you're saying, or have to heal from how you said it? Let's learn to speak with honesty, clarity, and grace.Need Prayer?
Is having a “work spouse,” a “hall pass,” or a close opposite-sex friend just fun — or deeply harmful? In this episode, we answer your questions and expose the danger of emotional entanglements outside of marriage, from micro-cheating and innocent emojis to secret texts and subtle flirty habits. We'll also talk about spiritual mismatches in relationships, what to do when your love tank feels empty, and how to rebuild trust after betrayal. Spoiler: What feels harmless can wreck your relationship. Let's talk about it.Need Prayer?
Your identity and purpose aren't defined by your relationship status—they're rooted in Christ. This message explores the biblical gift of singleness and the deeper purpose God has for your life, whether you're single, married, or somewhere in between. Discover how to live with purpose and joy, no matter your season.Need Prayer?
God doesn't require a perfect marriage to tell a beautiful story! If you've ever thought your relationship is beyond repair, this message serves as a reminder that emotional health, emotional intelligence, and emotional intimacy—rather than perfection—are the true foundations of a strong, godly marriage. While emotional intimacy turns conflict into connection, pride turns conflict into combat.Need Prayer?
If you think your marriage is boring and maybe even dead, and the only way you feel like you can spark life into your marriage is by introducing another person (or multiple people) into the equation, it might not be your marriage that's boring...it might be you. It might not be your marriage that needs reviving...it might be you!Need Prayer?
Scripture: Luke 24:5b — “Why do you seek the living among the dead?”In this Resurrection Sunday message, we reflect on the angel's powerful question to the women at Jesus' tomb. They had come looking for a body, expecting death—yet the tomb was empty. “Why do you seek the living among the dead?” is not just a question for that moment, but one that echoes into our own lives.Too often, we seek purpose, identity, and peace in “dead places”—in success, relationships, addictions, status, even religion without Christ. We chase after affirmation on screens, healing in achievements, or comfort in substances. But these cannot offer life. They are tombs that promise what only Jesus can give.True life—abundant, eternal, and resurrected life—is found in Christ alone. He is not in the grave. He is risen. And He invites us to stop clinging to lifeless substitutes and instead come alive in Him.This message calls us to examine where we've been seeking life in dead things—and to turn instead to the Risen Savior who conquered death and still meets us with grace and power today.Need Prayer?
In Daniel's visions, we see God's sovereignty over history. The visions of the ram and the goat symbolize the rise and fall of empires, demonstrating that God orchestrates world events. This sovereignty extends to our personal lives, inviting us to trust Him with our own stories. Daniel's prayer in chapter 9 serves as a model for us, emphasizing adoration, confession, acknowledgment of God's justice, and a plea for mercy and restoration. God responded to Daniel with a prophecy that pointed to the coming Messiah, affirming that His plans have always been in place.Need Prayer?
Earthly kingdoms rise and fall...the Son of Man reigns forever!Need Prayer?
Stand firm, Stay faithful, Watch God move!Need Prayer?
We cannot acknowledge the existence of God and live a life that denies His power.Belshazzar's downfall in Daniel 5 shows what happens when pride, defeat, and ignorance take over. He treated what was sacred as casual, ignored God's sovereignty, and lived as if he was untouchable—until the handwriting on the wall revealed his fate.Many live the same way today—claiming faith but rejecting God's power in their daily lives. True faith isn't just believing in God but submitting to Him.Need Prayer?
In Daniel 4, King Nebuchadnezzar has a terrifying dream of a mighty tree being cut down. Daniel reveals its meaning: God will humble Nebuchadnezzar for his pride unless he repents. The king ignores the warning, and one year later, he loses everything—his kingdom, his sanity, and his dignity—living like an animal for seven years. Eventually, he acknowledges God's authority, and God restores him.
Faithfulness is our responsibility—God handles the results.Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego show us how to stand firm in the face of persecution. When commanded to bow to a false god, they refused, declaring that God could save them—but even if He didn't, they would still remain faithful. Their story reminds us that true faith isn't about seeking rescue but trusting in God's sovereignty, no matter the outcome. In the end, their faith not only saved them but also made God's name known to an entire kingdom.Need Prayer?
In this message, we dive into Daniel 2, where King Nebuchadnezzar has a troubling dream that no one can interpret—except Daniel, through the wisdom God provides. This chapter teaches us three powerful truths that apply today:1️⃣ God Rules Over All – No ruler, nation, or system operates outside of His will. We are called to practice fearless trust in His sovereignty.2️⃣ God Reveals All – He is the source of all wisdom and knowledge. In times of uncertainty, we must practice fearless worship, trusting Him to reveal what we need.3️⃣ God Remains After All – Earthly kingdoms rise and fall, but God's Kingdom will last forever. Our hope should be in Him alone, calling us to fearless endurance.Need Prayer?
What does it mean to live fearlessly in a world that pressures us to compromise?In Daniel 1, we see Daniel and his friends taken captive to Babylon—a culture that tried to strip them of their identity, change their beliefs, and make them conform. But Daniel resolved not to defile himself. He chose faithfulness over comfort.The world will always try to redefine us, to make us compromise little by little. But fearless faith starts with small decisions—choosing obedience over compromise, trusting God's provision over worldly gain.If you want to be fearlessly faithful tomorrow, start living fearless faith today. Need Prayer?
God works through prayer… and God is always at work! In this message, we dive into Ephesians 3 and explore four key questions: Am I praying? Why am I praying? How am I praying? And for what am I praying? Paul's prayer challenges us to seek strength, depth, perspective, and fullness in our walk with God. Prayer isn't just a religious habit—it's fuel for our faith and a way to stay in tune with the Holy Spirit. Don't settle for a shallow prayer life—step into a deeper, more powerful connection with God!Need Prayer?
Prayer is more than just quiet reflection—it's spiritual warfare. In this message, we confront common misconceptions that keep people from praying as they should. Is prayer a luxury? Does it bother God? Is it just for emergencies? Discover biblical truths that challenge these misunderstandings and practical steps to overcome obstacles that hinder your prayers. If you've ever struggled with prayer, this message will reshape how you approach God!Need Prayer?
Prayer has the power to break chains, change lives, and accomplish the impossible—even when we doubt. Using Acts 12 as our guide, this sermon explores how anyone can grow in prayer, moving from a simple list to a life of passionate, persistent, and partnered prayer. Discover how God hears and answers prayers in ways beyond what we could ever ask or imagine!Need Prayer?
Jesus teaches us to focus on three key areas in prayer: our relationships, responsibilities, and requests. It's a pattern that shifts our prayers from "me, me, me" to "Heaven, Heaven, Heaven... Here, Here, Here." We explore how prayer connects us with God and others, aligns us with His will, and reminds us of our daily need for His provision, forgiveness, and guidance. Change the script of your prayers this week and discover the transformative power of prayer!Need Prayer?
Prayer is our most powerful weapon in the spiritual battle we face daily. In this message, we explore the essence of prayer—not just as a means of communication with God but as a deep communion with Him and a confrontation of the enemy. Learn why prayer is vital, how it equips us for spiritual warfare, and how we can pray with power, precision, and purpose. If you want 2025 to be your best year spiritually, it starts with prayer!Need Prayer?
Not all gifts are the same. Some gifts are better than others. The only job we have when it comes to the wonderful gift of Jesus is to receive it. Need Prayer?
We wrap up our Christmas series “Joyful Noise” by asking the question: “Is it possible for you to still… Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas?” The truth is that while Christmas is a wonderful time celebrating the birth of Christ, it can also be challenging. Perhaps Christmas brings up memories of lost loved ones or hardship in your family. But there is a way to make Christmas merry, no matter your circumstances. Need Prayer?
In this week's sermon, we explore Luke 2:22–35 and how Jesus's birth ushered in a new era that reveals the condition of our hearts and transforms humanity. Just as the Grinch experienced a change of heart, Jesus came to replace our hearts of stone with hearts of flesh, making us new creations. Through Him, we find true joy—not in circumstances but in His transforming presence. Join us as we unpack what it means to have a transformed life and lasting joy through Christ.Need Prayer?
This Christmas season, we dive into the chaos surrounding Mary and Joseph during the birth of Jesus and discover how God's presence transforms even the most challenging circumstances.In this message, we explore:How Mary and Joseph faced political, relational, and physical turmoil.The difference between living near God and living in His power.The greatest news of Christmas: God is not just with us—He's in us!Need Prayer?
In this message, we dive into the profound truth of the Gospel, a message that is both beautifully simple and deeply complex. The Gospel is simple enough for a child to understand—Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6). Yet, it's complex in its transformative nature, like light entering a prism, refracting into new, vibrant directions.We explore how Jesus changes our lives, refracting into four key aspects:Justification – We are made right with God.New Creation – Our old self is gone; we are born anew.Redemption – Chains are broken; we are set free.Adoption – We are brought into God's family forever.Discover how these truths meet our deepest longings for acceptance, hope, approval, and belonging. This Gospel is the greatest news ever, and our response to it is simple: receive it.Need Prayer?
In the final week of "Airplane Mode," we explored the necessity of a Christ-centered community. We looked at how deep, meaningful fellowship goes beyond socializing and fulfills a God-given longing for connection. Unlike shallow connections, true fellowship is both consistent and life-sustaining, and it's foundational for growing in faith.Need Prayer?
Life often feels paralyzed during periods of waiting, but the Bible shows us that waiting on the Lord is never passive—it's an active pursuit of faith. Psalm 37:34, Lamentations 3:25, and Matthew 6:33 illustrate that waiting and pursuing are intertwined acts of trust. Need Prayer?
In this week's message, we dive into Acts 3:1-11 to explore giving and serving as spiritual privileges that allow us to bring Jesus' presence into others' lives. We examine the first miracle in the church, emphasizing how Jesus works through His followers to meet needs beyond silver and gold. As we practice generosity and serve, we don't just support the church; we become vessels of transformation, helping others encounter God's love. Remember, it's not just an obligation—We GET to give and we GET to serve!Need Prayer?
In this message, we explore how silence and solitude before God are essential for finding direction, strength, renewal, and clarity. Through examples from the life of Jesus and other biblical figures, we see how silence and solitude were essential before significant decisions, in times of grief, and for spiritual rejuvenation.Need Prayer?
This part of the "Airplane Mode" series explores how spiritual disciplines are essential for spiritual growth. These practices aren't just routines but habits that strengthen our connection with God and help us navigate life's challenges. By diving into the core disciplines of prayer and worship, we see how they shape both our inward posture toward God and our outward expressions of faith.Need Prayer?
In this message from our series "Airplane Mode," we explore the spiritual discipline of Bible study and learning, using the story of Samuel's call in 1 Samuel 3:1-10 to emphasize the importance of listening to God's voice. Just as Samuel had to recognize the voice of the Lord, we must approach Scripture with a heart ready to hear and obey. We'll examine James 1:22-25, understanding that knowing God's Word is not enough; we must be doers of it. Lastly, we'll dive into practical methods to study the Bible, making it a living, transformative part of our daily lives.Need Prayer?
Using 1 Corinthians 9:24-27, we'll dive into the metaphor of athletes who train with strict discipline, applying it to our Christian walk—reminding us that we are in a race worth running to win, and a fight that requires our full dedication.Need Prayer?
The apostle John reminds us of the seriousness of sin, the importance of guarding our hearts from idols, and a pathway to healing from the sin done by us, to us, and around us.1 John 5:16-21Need Prayer?
1 John 5:6-15John provides three witnesses—water (Jesus' baptism), blood (His death), and the Spirit—that testify to Christ's divinity and role in salvation. Christians should share their personal stories of transformation and trust in God's confidence rather than our own.Need Prayer?
When we believe in Jesus, what happens is so other-worldly that the only way to describe it is to be ‘born again.' By believing Jesus is the Christ, we can overcome the world and obey God's commands.1 John 5:1-5Need Prayer?
1 John 4:1-6Whenever there is False Teaching there will be always be False Living, False Security, and False Power. Only through knowing God's voice can we navigate the potentially dangerous lies offered by our culture.Need Prayer?
Are you Loving One Another?1 John 4:7-21John's message is clear: our love for others is a direct reflection of our relationship with God. If we claim to love God but harbor hatred for others, our claim is empty. The ultimate expression of love is seen in Jesus Christ, who sacrificed His life for us. This sacrificial love should inspire us to love others selflessly.Loving One Another Proves We Know God.Loving One Another Proves We See God's Love.Loving One Another Proves We Are Becoming More Like Jesus. Need Prayer?
When we delight in the love of God, our desires will be in the will of God.1 John 3:19-24Assurance for an unsure heart vv 19-20Condemnation is rooted in guilt and shameConviction is rooted in the knowledge of sin and repentance Assurance for a sure heart vv 21-22Assurance through faith and obedience vv 23-24Need Prayer?
Our lives should be marked by love, not indifference or hatred. We are called to reflect the light of Christ so brightly that it exposes darkness and draws others to Him.1 John 3:10-18 If we are delivered from sin, then we should be marked by love. And so I would ask you today, Are you marked by love? The evidence of our Love for God is marked by our relationships with others.Two outcomes of how we live in relationships with othersChild of GodChild of the DevilJohn outlines 4 ways we can choose to live in relationship with others.Murder: Vv 11, 12Hatred vv 13-15Indifference vv 16, 17Christian Love vv 18The evidence of our Love for God is marked by our relationships with others.Need Prayer?
In order to say yes to God this week, you're going to have to say no to something else.1 John 3:4-9 (NIV)Are you Delivered from Sin? 1. The Reason for deliveranceYou are a sinner You are sinful 2. The Recipe for deliverance3. The Righteousness from deliveranceRighteousness makes us not want to sin Righteousness keeps us from sinning 4. The Result of deliveranceWe have been delivered from Satan's power to charge us with sinWe have been delivered from Satan's power to cause deathWe have been delivered from Satan's power to enslave us with habits of sin and shameNeed Prayer?
Knowing God is essential and transformative. It's not just about having information; it's about experiencing His love and living in accordance with His promises and purity.When life punches you in the face... it's not the WHAT that keeps you going, it's the WHY. Are You Experiencing God's Love1 John 3:1-3 (NIV) 1. Our Position (Verse 1) 2. Our Promise (Verse 2)3. Our Purity (Verse 3)First, in this view purity is only about sex. Secondly, purity was a only a teenager's struggle. When the lavish love of God truly takes hold of you... it makes you do stupid things. In order to say yes to God this week, you're going to have to say no to something else.Need Prayer?
1 John 2:24-29Are You Abiding in Christ?John emphasizes the importance of letting the gospel message, which we have heard from the beginning, dwell in us. This message is unchanging and central to our faith: Christ lived a sinless life, died for our sins, and offers us eternal life. John warns against false teachers who distort this truth and encourages us to know the gospel so well that we can immediately recognize and reject false teachings.Abiding in Christ means letting His word dwell richly in us, transforming our hearts and lives. This involves daily reflection on the gospel, thanking God for His mercy, and allowing the Holy Spirit to guide us in understanding Scripture. John reassures us that the Holy Spirit, our helper, will teach us and remind us of the truth.The Test (v 24) It is an old, unchangeable message.The evidence: You are continuing in the SonThe Promise (v. 25)Eternal LifeThe Prediction (v. 26)Some lead us away from ChristSee last week's sermon (Are you believing lies?)The Provision (v. 27)The Holy Spirit abides in us The Holy Spirit teaches us truth The Holy Spirit seals and assures usThe Purpose (v. 28)We continue so we can have confidenceWe continue so will not be ashamed at Christ's returnThe Proof (v. 29)We know God if we know he is righteousWe know God if we know what it means to be born againNeed Prayer?
Until you know what you do believe, you won't know what you shouldn't believe. 1 John 2:18-23 (NIV)Are you believing lies?1. False teachers are Clear.They deny Jesus was/is GodThey deny Jesus was SinlessThey deny Jesus' death and resurrectionThey deny Jesus' LordshipThey deny Jesus is coming back2. False teachers are Close.See… Matt 7:15; 2 Cor 11:13-15; 1 Tim 4:1-2; 1 Tim 6:3-5;2 Tim 4:3-4; 2 Pet 2:1; Jer 6:13; Jer 23:11; Jer 50:6; Ezek 33:63. False teachers are Confined As believers… we have an anointing As believers… we have the truthGod gives us truth through JesusGod gives us truth through His Word4. False teachers are Confused.Need Prayer?
Is loving the world a bad thing? Aren't we supposed to love people and God's creation? John tells us that loving the world is the same as not knowing God, therefore, how do we know God and also approach this world we live in? 1 John 2:15-17 (NIV)No matter what a person may say or think… the person who loves the world does not know God. The TestDo you love the world? The Truths The world is dying… The world in powerless… The world is sinful… The TrapsLust of the fleshLust of the eyesPride of lifeWhatever we Love, + what we Follow = becomes our god. The TrustYou can prove you know God by answering: Am I loving the world? Need Prayer?
How do we prove we KNOW God?Knowing God is not important… If God doesn't exist. What if his existence is the most important thing that matters?The point is clear… we must know God!But how can we really know that we know Him?• 1 John 2:3-6 (NIV)Test #1: Do I obey God's commands?• 1 John 3:23 (NIV)Person 1 = Someone who falsely claims to know God.Person 2 = Someone who truly knows and obeys God.Obedience is tied to knowing and loving God.When we continuously obey God's word, we will draw nearer toHim. We will love Him more… we will know Him more!How did Jesus walk/obey?• Believing and trusting God• Worshipping and praying to God• Fellowshipping and communing with God/Others• Giving and sacrificing everything to God• Seeking and following after God• Teaching and telling others about God• Loving and caring for others• Laying down his life for others• Obeying all of God's commandsNeed Prayer?
You know because you GROW.Some Christians are ____________, some are _____________, some are ______________.1 John 2:12-14 NIVJohn's message to children (new believers): Your sins are ___________ + you know the ___________.John's message to young men (growing believers): You have ____________ the evil one.John's message to fathers (mature believers): You know ______ who was from the beginning.What does growth look like?Growth = Increased understanding of ________ _____________ and _____ ________________, and a growing belief that the ______ ________ _____ _________.We minimize the cross by ______________ to earn God's approval.We minimize the cross by _______________ we're better than we really are.Commit to growing through _________ and _____________ yourself of the gospel.Need Prayer?
The proof that you really KNOW GodTest #2 = Are You Loving Your Neighbor?1 John 2:7-11The Supreme Command - Love (2:7-8)The professing man: Professes God but hates his brother (2:9)The obedient man: Loves his brother (2:10)We can prove that we know God by what we love. The bitter & hating man: Walks in darkness, blinded by his sin (2:11)Big Question: Are you loving your neighbor?Do you love them enough to serve themDo you love them enough to pray for them?Do you love them enough to worship with them? Do you love them enough to bear their burdens with them?Do you love them enough to forgive them? Need Prayer?
Question: If you were believing a lie… would you want to know it?1 John 1:5-2:2 (NIV)LIE #1 - We can walk with God & walk in darkness Revelation 21:23 (NIV)Revelation 22:5 (NIV) What does it mean to walk in darkness?LIE #2 - We're not that bad1 John 1:8 (NIV)LIE #3 - We can defeat sin ourselves1 John 2:1-2 (NIV) What is it that gives Jesus the right to act as our advocate? What is it that Jesus Christ pleads on our behalf?He does not plead our reputation, good works, innocence, or personal righteousness…He pleads His own righteousness.Are you walking in the light?Need Prayer?
Are you someone who claims to know God, love Him, and believe in Him? If so, can you prove it? It's easy to make such claims, but proving one's faith requires more than words. Thankfully, we can learn from John, one of Jesus' disciples, on how to prove our faith. By asking ourselves the right questions and following his lead, we can demonstrate to the world that our faith is not just mere words, but rather, it's a tangible truth that can be proven.1 John 1:1-4Jesus has always existedJesus proves who He is in personJesus changes us foreverJesus came to us for usJoy = a deep seated pleasure. Joy is divineJoy does not depend on circumstances Joy comes from faithQuestion: How's your joy? Need Prayer?
We talk about the importance of understanding the depth of “I Do” beyond the wedding day. How couples can cultivate a deeper understanding of their vows throughout their marriage? 1 Corinthians 13:4-8“I Do” really means “I Will”Love never fails… even when we do.1 John 3:16 Need Prayer?