Bethel Cincinnati

Ever wonder how someone doing everything right can still lose their way? King Uzziah started strong—16 years old, reigning 52 years, blessed by God with military victories and prosperity. But somewhere along the way, pride crept in.This sermon from our "Crowned But Compromised" series walks through the sobering story of King Uzziah (also called Azariah), a leader who did right in God's eyes but fell into the trap of thinking he'd become so strong he didn't need God's help anymore. His name literally means "Yahweh is my strength"—yet he forgot that truth. The result? Leprosy, isolation, and a cautionary tale for all of us.

When everything you've relied on shifts—when the voices that guided you are gone—who will you become?Kylie unpacks the story of King Joash, a boy hidden in God's temple who grew up to be king. Raised by a faithful priest, Joash restored the temple and honored God—but only while his mentor was alive. When that voice disappeared, Joash listened to different counsel and compromised everything. His story asks us the uncomfortable question: Is your faith your own, or are you riding someone else's spiritual coattails?This message wrestles with what happens when life gets hard, when transitions shake us, when the familiar falls away. Joash had the blood of both David and Ahab flowing through his veins—righteousness and wickedness at war within him. But here's the truth that changes everything: the blood of Jesus supersedes every bloodline, every past mistake, every generational curse. You are chosen, royal, holy—created with divine purpose. The question is: will you live like it?

Are you keeping the peace in areas where God is calling you to stand out?King Jehoshaphat loved God and did what was right—but he made one compromise that changed everything. He made peace with King Ahab, one of the most wicked kings in Israel's history. This alliance almost cost him his life and opened the door for rebellion in the next generation.This message challenges us to examine where we might be blending in when God has called us to be different. It's not about being judgmental or isolating ourselves—it's about having the courage to stop compromising with things that are at war with God. Sometimes the pressure to fit in, maintain influence, or avoid conflict can lead us to make peace with relationships, habits, or practices that slowly pull us away from God.

Ever feel like you're serving God with your whole heart, but something still holds you back from complete freedom in worship?King Asa was one of the great kings of Judah—he tore down idols, removed cult prostitutes, and even fired his own grandmother for making false gods. The Bible says "his heart was wholly devoted to the Lord all his days." But there's this one haunting line: "the high places were not taken away." These weren't just random worship sites—they represented convenience, compromise, and contamination in how God's people approached Him. Asa wanted to worship God fully, but some things were just out of his reach to destroy.

What if generosity isn't just about having resources—but about recognizing what you do have to give?Maybe you think you don't have enough to be generous. Wrong schedule, wrong bank account, wrong season of life. But generosity isn't measured by what you lack—it's activated by trusting God with what you have. Your time, your attention, your faith, your presence—these matter more than you realize. The gap between those who need help and those who give help is thinner than we think. In fact, all of us have been the lame beggar in some way, needing someone to do for us what we couldn't do for ourselves. This message isn't just about being nice people. It's about becoming a community so marked by God's generosity that when we engage our city, transformation happens. Because the gospel itself is the ultimate act of generosity—God giving His Son for people who couldn't save themselves.

What does it take to live with uncompromising faith when everything is on the line? How do we become people who refuse to compromise even when our lives depend on it?This week Pastor Van explores the transformation of Peter from someone who denied Jesus to a man who boldly stood before the Sanhedrin declaring "we must obey God rather than human beings." Using the gripping story from the movie Lone Survivor, we discover what it means to hold fast to our convictions when the stakes are highest.

Are you living like Jesus could return today, or have you settled into thinking it might never happen?In this message from Revelation 22, we explore what it means that Jesus promises three times "I am coming quickly." This isn't just theological doctrine—it's meant to shape how we live right now. Whether the thought of Jesus' return brings you comfort, concern, or skepticism, Scripture calls us to live with urgent anticipation.The early church needed this reminder when facing compromise and persecution. We need it today when we're tempted to give up hope or get too comfortable with the status quo. Jesus isn't coming back as a baby in a manger. He's returning as the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, bringing both reward and judgment.

Ever feel like you're stuck at the "airport" of your Christian faith instead of exploring the full city? This Sunday we dive into what it means to grow beyond just getting saved to actually becoming more like Jesus.In this message on sanctification from 1 Thessalonians 4-5, we explore how God is so committed to making us holy that He uses everything around us - the people in our lives, our circumstances, and His Spirit within us - to shape us into Christ's image. If you've ever felt frustrated with your spiritual progress or wondered why growth feels so slow, this message offers real hope and practical insight.We'll discover that sanctification isn't about perfectionism or pleasing people - it's about cooperating with God's work in our lives rather than resisting it. Whether you're a new believer trying to figure out this faith thing or you've been walking with Jesus for years, there's encouragement here for wherever you are in the journey.

What if the best picture of a healthy marriage isn't found in relationship books, but in understanding how Christ loves His church?In this message from our "What We Believe" series, we dive into the doctrine of the church through the surprising lens of marriage. Using Ephesians 5:22-30, we discover that marriage isn't just about two people—it's meant to reflect the beautiful relationship between Christ and His church. Whether you're married, single, or somewhere in between, this message reveals God's heart for His people and His dream for the church.

Ever wonder why God uses ordinary things like bread, juice, and water to do something extraordinary?In this message, we dive deep into the doctrine of sacraments—specifically baptism and communion. These aren't just religious rituals we go through; they're means of grace that God has given the church to strengthen our faith and draw us closer to Him and each other. Whether you grew up in a tradition with different teachings about sacraments or you're exploring faith for the first time, this message will give you biblical clarity on what we believe and why it matters for your spiritual journey.

In this powerful message, we explore how mission is not just something the Church does — it's who we are. From Genesis to Revelation, the Bible tells one unified story: God's mission to redeem and restore the world. This sermon breaks down that story into six key scenes — Creation, The Fall, Israel, Jesus, The Church, and New Creation — showing how every believer is called to be part of God's redemptive work.

Ever wonder what salvation really means beyond just "going to heaven"? This message breaks down the heart of the gospel into five simple words that will transform how you see God's grace.In this sermon from our "We Believe" series, we explore Paul's testimony in 1 Timothy 1 and discover that salvation isn't just fire insurance—it's a complete transformation from the inside out. Whether you're struggling with shame, feeling like you've gone too far, or wondering if God's grace is really enough for your situation, this message offers hope and clarity.

Which Jesus were you first introduced to? In our culture today, there are countless versions of Jesus being presented - the political Jesus, the passive Jesus, the taskmaster Jesus. But who is the real Jesus revealed in Scripture?In this message from our "We Believe" series, Pastor Brian takes us deep into Hebrews 4:14-16 to discover the truth about Jesus Christ. We explore how Jesus is both fully God and fully man - our great High Priest who sympathizes with our weaknesses yet remains without sin. This isn't just theology for the classroom; it's an anchor for your soul when life's storms hit.When you truly understand who Jesus is, it changes everything about how you approach Him. He's not distant or disconnected from your struggles. He gets you. He's been tempted like you are. He knows what betrayal feels like, what pain feels like, what pressure feels like. Yet He conquered sin and death so you can confidently approach His throne of grace.

Ever feel like you need to prove your worth through performance? Paul says he's not ashamed of the gospel - but why would he even need to say that?In this powerful message from Romans 1:16-17, Pastor Vincent breaks down why the gospel is God's power for salvation and why we don't need to earn our way to God. He explores how Jesus lived the life we should have lived and died the death we should have died, making salvation a gift rather than something we achieve through performance.This isn't just theology - it's life-changing truth that addresses our deepest need for acceptance and worth. When we understand that salvation comes through faith, not works, it transforms how we see ourselves and others. No more private wins or comparing ourselves - just the joy of knowing we're loved because of what Christ did.

Ever wonder why a century-old hymn like "How Great Thou Art" still moves us to tears? The answer lies in how we understand Genesis 1-3.In this message from our Bible study series, we explore the foundational truths of creation and the fall that shape everything about our faith. When we truly grasp that God made all things good, governs everything, and created us in His image, it transforms how we see both His creation and our circumstances.

What if the Bible isn't just an ancient book, but God literally breathing life into your daily decisions? In Week 2 of our "We Believe" series, Pastor Steve Robinson unpacked 2 Timothy 3:16-17 on this Father's Day, showing why Scripture is both "God-breathed" and intensely personal.

In this Pentecost Sunday message, Pastor Brian challenges us to "Take the Next Step" using Acts 2. Fresh off VBS week where kids learned about taking small steps of faith, he reminds us that adults need the same Holy Spirit courage.He addresses two key questions: "What does this mean?" and "What shall we do?" Whether you need to surrender to Christ, stop playing games with God, or be freshly filled with His power—this message challenges you to take that next bold step of faith.

Pastor Brian kicks off our summer "We Believe" series with the big question: Who exactly is this God we pray to and worship? Using Moses' encounter with God at the burning bush (Exodus 3), he unpacks what it means when God says "I AM WHO I AM." Pastor Brian admits this topic is like "bringing a shop-vac to the ocean" - we'll never fully grasp it all. But that's okay! The point isn't to figure God out; it's to know Him better and stand in awe of who He is.

What if your prayers could change not just you, but the world around you? Pastor Brian wraps up our "Language of Prayer" series with a game-changing message about praying with God's mission in mind.Why Paul prayed for MORE opportunities to do what got him imprisoned

Ever felt stuck wondering what God wants you to do next? In this message from our "Language of Prayer" series, Pastor Brian breaks down Paul's prayer for the Colossians and shows us how to apply it when we're facing life's big decisions. Pastor Brian reminds us, God doesn't reveal His will just to make us "smarter sinners" - He wants to completely transform how we live, love, and make decisions every day.

Pastor Brian takes us on a personal journey through Ephesians 3:14-21, revealing how our seemingly impossible prayers become entirely reasonable when we truly understand who God is. If you've ever felt too weak to face another day or wondered if God's love could really reach the depths of your situation, this message is for you.

Ever feel like you're just going through the motions when you pray? Like you're starving for encouragement but coming up empty? In this raw and relatable message, Pastor Van gets real about his own journey from discouragement to discovering how to pray from a place of fullness.Through his personal story of growing up with a football-coaching father who couldn't give what he didn't have, Pastor Van unpacks a game-changing truth: we've been trading real encouragement for empty compliments. But there's a better way.

In this first message of our new sermon series "The Language of Prayer" , Pastor Brian teaches how to pray biblically by examining Paul's prayer for the Ephesian church. Learn how to develop a prayer language that goes beyond simply asking for things, to praying that others would truly know God better.

In this Easter message, Pastor Brian explores Mark 16:1-8 with a refreshing perspective: what catches us off guard never surprises God. If you're going through something challenging right now, this message is for you! Listen as Pastor Brian reminds us with warmth and humor that what freaks us out doesn't freak God out, what keeps us up at night doesn't worry God, and what stops us doesn't stop God. This Easter message might be exactly what you need to hear today!

Experience the message of Palm Sunday as Pastor Brian unpacks the significance of "Hosanna" - a cry that carries both a plea for help and an expression of praise.In this special Palm Sunday service, Pastor Brian takes us on a journey through Holy Week, revealing how Jesus's humble entry into Jerusalem fulfilled ancient prophecies and set the stage for our salvation.

Ever felt like God wasn't hearing you? In this raw and powerful message, Erica Diggs dives into the story of blind Bartimaeus and shows us why some prayers get answered while others don't. She shares her own family's journey through what doctors called "impossible" with her son's devastating knee injury, and how desperation became the sound that moved heaven.

Ever feel like you're following Jesus through a thick fog? Jesus calls us to follow Him, even when the path seems unclear. That's exactly what Pastor Brian tackles in this real, straight-from-the-heart message about the disciples who followed Jesus despite being scared out of their minds. When life gets confusing and God's plan doesn't make sense, what do we do? We follow anyway. Mark 10:32-45 shows us that even Jesus' closest followers were clueless sometimes, yet He still used them to change the world. Feeling lost in your own fog? This message is for you.

As we continue in our "Preparing for Calvary" series, Pastor Brian examines the challenging story of the Rich Young Ruler from Mark 10:17-26. He unpacks what it truly means to follow Jesus and the surprising answer to the disciples' crucial question: "Who can be saved?"

Drawing parallels to Mark 9:38-50, Pastor Brian challenges us to identify and eliminate anything in our lives causing us to stumble in our walk with Christ.Whether it's unhealthy relationships, harmful habits, or hidden sin, Pastor Brian reminds us that cutting these things off will hurt - but keeping them will hurt even more. Only one path leads to freedom.

What if the world's definition of greatness isn't what God intended? In this powerful message from Mark 9:30-37, Pastor Brian challenges us to rethink our pursuit of significance through the lens of Christ.Jesus never rebukes us for wanting to be great but instead redefines what true greatness looks like in God's kingdom. While the disciples argued about who was greatest, Jesus taught them a radically different perspective: "If anyone wants to be first, he shall be last of all and servant of all." (Mark 9:35)

Pastor Van explores the profound message echoed throughout the Gospel of Mark—when Jesus shows up, everything changes. Through an in-depth examination of Mark 9:14-29, Pastor Van reveals how this fast-paced Gospel consistently emphasizes that Jesus alone is sufficient for our deepest needs. This message challenges listeners to recognize that in every crisis, disappointment, or struggle, Jesus is enough. Rather than being consumed by circumstances, Pastor Van encourages us to focus on the presence of Christ who can transform any situation.

Ever been completely awe-struck by God's presence? Not just believing or attending church, but truly struck silent by who He is? Pastor Brian walks us through the Transfiguration story (Mark 9:2-8), getting to the heart of what it means to listen to Jesus in your daily life. If you're questioning God's direction, wrestling with His will, or wanting to hear His voice more clearly, this message meets you where you are. Through Peter's story - from confused follower to devoted martyr - we see how faith grows one step of obedience at a time.

Pastor Brian gets real about what it means to live for God's agenda instead of our own or others' in this eye-opening message from Mark 8:31-38. The heart of the message is simple: the cross is where our agendas die and God's purposes become our priority. It might sound scary, but it leads to real freedom.

In this sermon, guest speaker , Ernie Krueger weaves together biblical exposition with raw personal stories - from adopting a Black child in apartheid South Africa to standing up against misogyny in professional rugby. His message centers on the critical difference between merely acknowledging Jesus and truly surrendering to Him as Lord. Drawing parallels between the progressive healing of the blind man (Mark 8:22-26) and spiritual awakening, Krueger demonstrates how true sight comes when we move from cultural Christianity to complete surrender to Christ's lordship.

Pastor Brian unpacks what it means to be "Still in Progress" through a powerful examination of Mark 8:22-26. This message explores why God sometimes works gradually rather than instantly in our lives. For anyone waiting on answered prayers or seeking spiritual clarity, this message offers biblical wisdom for seasons when God's work feels incomplete. Learn why delayed answers aren't necessarily denied answers and how to trust God in the process.

Kylie shares a personal story of disruption that leads into a profound examination of Joseph of Arimathea's crucial decision at Jesus's crucifixion. Through Luke 23:50-56, we discover what it truly means to follow Christ, even when it's costly.

An honest look at God's transformative love through the unexpected lens of the criminal on the cross. Pastor Brian examines Luke 23:33-43, revealing what happens when human guilt collides with divine love. Being "Guilty as Charged" isn't the end of your story - it's the beginning of encountering genuine love that transforms. This message speaks to anyone wrestling with guilt, shame, or feeling unworthy of God's grace.

Experience how the Book of Ruth connects to the Christmas story in unexpected ways. Pastor Brian reveals why this ancient tale of loss, love, and redemption culminates in a baby born in Bethlehem - and how that baby changes everything. See how your story fits into God's greater narrative. Whether you're feeling lost like Naomi or searching for purpose like Ruth, learn how God has been working behind the scenes for generations to bring hope and redemption through Jesus Christ.

Join Pastor Brian as he explores the message of hope and healing through the Book of Ruth during this Advent season. This inspiring sermon unpacks how what we cling to in our pain will either heal us or hinder us in our walk with God.

Are you tired of living with constant anxiety? Do you wake up wondering what bad news your phone might bring today? This powerful message meets you exactly where you are. Pastor Brian shares about finding true safety and security through abiding in God's presence. Drawing from his recent experiences in South Africa and personal encounters with fear during turbulent flights, he unpacks the profound truths of Psalm 91 and its practical application for believers today. Pastor shares his own raw moments of fear during intense turbulence - the very moment he was preparing to teach about God's protection. His honesty opens the door for you to face your own fears and find true security.

In this powerful message "In The Pause," Vincent, who serves as the Bengals team chaplain, delivers a heartfelt teaching about navigating seasons of waiting while seeking God. Drawing from Psalm 34:1-4 and his personal experience transitioning from NFL player to chaplain, he offers profound insights into handling life's uncertain pauses.

Guest Pastor Chris Johnson from Divine Unity Community Church (Harrisonburg, VA) delivers a powerful message titled "Open Our Eyes" at Every Nation Cincinnati, examining faith versus fear through the lens of 2 Kings 6:14-17.

In this insightful sermon, Pastor Brian explores the story of Naaman's healing from leprosy in 2 Kings 5:1-14. He challenges us to consider what we might need to let go of in order to receive God's blessings and healing in our lives.

In this powerful sermon, guest Pastor Steve Murrell from Every Nation Ministries shares a global perspective on the church's mission and purpose. Speaking at Every Nation Cincinnati, he explores Mark 11:15-17, focusing on Jesus' cleansing of the temple and the profound statement: "My house shall be called a house of prayer for all nations."

When life feels like it's falling apart, where can we turn? In this powerful message, Kylie Parks tackles the question we've all asked: How do we hold onto faith when our world is crumbling?Through the lens of the Shunammite woman's story in 2 Kings 4, Kylie offers hope and practical wisdom for anyone facing heartache, disappointment, or shattered dreams. Her down-to-earth approach and personal anecdotes make this ancient biblical story surprisingly relevant for today's challenges.

"Check with God First" - Pastor Brian unpacks the vital principle of seeking God's guidance before making decisions. Drawing from 2 Kings 3, he reveals how what's overwhelming to us is easy for God. Learn practical steps to align your choices with God's will and transform your decision-making process. Whether you're facing major life choices or everyday decisions, this message will inspire you to prioritize God's perspective in all areas of your life.