BRAVE Church

What if the most significant day in human history is just around the corner? This question ignites a powerful message from Pastor Jeff as he dives into the heart of 1 Thessalonians 5, exploring the transformative truth of Christ's second coming. With vivid historical references, from Pearl Harbor to the Resurrection, Pastor Jeff illustrates how pivotal moments shape our lives—not just in history, but in our spiritual journeys as well. He emphasizes that we are called to respond to God's warnings with urgency, refusing spiritual complacency, and resting in His divine rescue plan. In a world that often embraces apathy, Pastor Jeff encourages listeners to reject complacency and rally together in hope, as they keep their eyes on the promise of Christ's return. Speaker: Jeff Schwarzentraub

On this Father's Day, Pastor Jeff acknowledges the incredible contributions of fathers and volunteers in the community, particularly during the recent high five week, which saw a significant number of children come to Christ. He emphasizes the importance of fathers as prophetic voices in their families, urging them to align their hearts with God in order to lead their children effectively and counter the lies of the world. Throughout the sermon, he encourages fathers to speak blessing and affirmation to their children, reflecting the love of God, and to model Christlike behavior at home. Ultimately, the future of families and society depends on the role fathers play, as they guide their children in embracing God's truths, thereby changing the course of their lives for the better. Speaker: Jeff Schwarzentraub

Pastor Jeff emphasizes the hope that the Gospel provides, particularly in the face of death. He shares the powerful story of Todd Beamer, who faced his own demise with unwavering faith and hope in eternal life with Christ. By unpacking Scripture from First Thessalonians, he encourages believers to grieve differently, trust confidently in Christ's resurrection, and live with expectancy for His return. Ultimately, Pastor Jeff urges everyone to embrace this living hope, as it fundamentally transforms how we navigate life's challenges and encourages us to share this hope relentlessly with others. Speaker: Jeff Schwarzentraub

Pastor Jeff highlights the importance of character development over public persona in the Christian walk. He emphasizes that as believers, we are called to love deeply, work diligently, and live grounded lives, all while reflecting the love of Christ in our actions. He reminds us that our behavior matters in how we witness to others, urging us to be examples of good character in a world that often lacks it. Ultimately, he encourages us to remain rooted in God's love, allowing it to shape our character and impact those around us. Speaker: Jeff Schwarzentraub

Pastor Jeff emphasized the transformative power of the Gospel and the importance of living a life that pleases God. He outlined that God's will for believers includes pursuing purity, possessing their bodies honorably, and understanding the seriousness of sin. Through examining Scripture, he called for repentance and a commitment to grow in righteousness, warning against complacency in faith. Ultimately, Pastor Jeff urged the congregation to consider how they can more abundantly please God in every aspect of their lives. Speaker: Jeff Schwarzentraub

On Mother's Day, Pastor Jeff emphasizes the significant role of mothers in God's design and their influence in shaping the next generation. He highlights how mothers model the Gospel and have the unique ability to disciple their children in a way that is profoundly impactful. Despite a culture that often overlooks their contributions, God sees and values the work of mothers, and their faithful service can change the course of families and communities. Ultimately, the message champions motherhood as a noble calling and encourages both mothers and the wider community to recognize and support this vital role. Speaker: Jeff Schwarzentraub

Pastor Justin Hart's sermon emphasizes the importance of being "called out" as Christians, highlighting that this calling challenges us to embrace a higher standard of living through the Holy Spirit. He underscores the dual responsibilities of personal accountability and community support, urging believers to draw lines in their lives according to God's standards, while also helping others bear their burdens. The message encourages a shift away from comparison and envy towards purposeful encouragement and holiness, promoting a communal growth in faith. Ultimately, Pastor Justin calls the congregation to seize the opportunity to live out their faith actively, recognizing that their actions today can impact future generations. Speaker: Justin Hart

Pastor Jeff shared an encouraging message about the importance of community and prayer within the church, highlighting the joy of witnessing growth in faith among the congregation. He emphasized the need for pastors to feel the burdens of their people deeply, prepare them for the inevitable struggles of life, and rejoice in their faith and love. He also called for fervent prayer for holiness and growth, reminding the congregation that Jesus is coming back soon and we must live in readiness. As he prepares to travel to Tanzania to train pastors, he asked for prayers and encouraged the church to continue standing firm in their faith and supporting one another. Speaker: Jeff Schwarzentraub

Pastor Jeff welcomed everyone on this Easter Sunday, emphasizing the importance of understanding what happens after death and the significance of Jesus's resurrection. He highlighted that Jesus conquered death, offering believers the opportunity for eternal life and new beginnings. The sermon stressed that faith in the risen Christ is crucial, as it transforms lives and provides hope. Pastor Jeff called for a personal response, inviting those who have not fully committed to Jesus to do so, reminding everyone that it is essential to take action based on the truth of the Gospel. Speaker: Jeff Schwarzentraub

Pastor Jeff delivered a powerful message on Good Friday, emphasizing the significance of Jesus' sacrifice for sinners. He explained that while we were still powerless and ungodly, Jesus died to justify us and reconcile our relationship with God. The pastor reminded us that this unconditional love is not based on our merit but on God's grace, transforming enemies into His beloved children. Ultimately, Good Friday is a celebration of restoration, offering hope and joy to those who recognize their need for salvation through Christ. Speaker: Jeff Schwarzentraub

In Pastor Jon's sermon, he emphasizes the importance of looking beyond the veils that separate us from experiencing the fullness of Christ's glory and power. He discusses the significance of Jesus' unveiling in Revelation, highlighting the awe and fear we should have before the true nature of God, which helps to dispel our other fears. Pastor Jon encourages believers to engage in a physical posture of humility, such as bowing, to deepen their prayer life and intimacy with Jesus, transforming discipline into delight. Finally, he reinforces the urgency of accepting Jesus' invitation for fellowship and repentance, reminding us that He is returning both as a conquering King and a personal Savior. Speaker: Jon Gaus

Pastor Jeff emphasized the importance of submitting to the authoritative Word of God, reminding the congregation that it is essential for spiritual growth and guidance. He acknowledged that opposition and suffering are expected for Christians, encouraging them to endure without flinching and to remain faithful in sharing the Gospel. Pastor Jeff highlighted that the true prize in ministry is investing in disciples, urging the congregation to commit wholeheartedly to spreading the message of Christ and nurturing believers. Ultimately, he called on everyone to exhaust their resources for the glory of God, fostering a vibrant community united in faith and purpose. Speaker: Jeff Schwarzentraub

Pastor Jeff emphasized the importance of engaging in gospel ministry with boldness and unwavering conviction, noting that God blesses those who are committed to spreading the message of Jesus. He highlighted that true ministry involves sacrificial love and personal investment in the lives of others, encouraging believers to exemplify holiness in their actions. The sermon called for Christians to actively live out their faith and share the gospel, while maintaining a spirit of tenderness and encouragement towards fellow believers. In closing, Pastor Jeff invited everyone to surrender their lives to Christ, assuring them of the transformative power and blessings that come from a genuine relationship with God. Speaker: Jeff Schwarzentraub

Pastor Jeff shared a powerful message about the transformative nature of the gospel, emphasizing that true salvation comes from God's choice, not our own efforts. He recounted his experience praying for President Trump in the Oval Office, highlighting the importance of the church's role in influencing society through prayer and the sharing of faith. He also encouraged believers to have unwavering confidence in their salvation, boldness in their witness, and commitment to living out their faith despite challenges. Ultimately, he reminded the congregation that Christ's return offers an unmovable hope for all who believe. Speaker: Jeff Schwarzentraub

Pastor Jeff emphasized the importance of a church that impacts its community through faithful proclamation of God's Word, even in the face of fierce opposition. He shared that true faith leads to a labor of love and steadfastness of hope, encouraging the congregation to endure trials as a part of their spiritual growth. Pastor Jeff illustrated how the early church in Thessalonica exemplified these qualities, demonstrating that genuine commitment to the Gospel brings transformation. Ultimately, he urged everyone to actively live out their faith and share the message of Jesus, as the future of the church and its impact on the world depend on it. Speaker: Jeff Schwarzentraub

In today's sermon, Pastor Jeff spoke about the importance of being aware of the ongoing work God is doing through Brave Church, emphasizing that every member plays a role in the Great Commission. He used the story of a complacent farmer as a metaphor for spiritual stagnation, encouraging individuals to deepen their relationship with God and to prepare for what He has in store. The message also highlighted foundational church activities, such as prayer, leadership training, and community outreach, underlining the church's commitment to growth and mission fulfillment. Finally, Pastor Jeff introduced upcoming initiatives, including a capital campaign called "Taking Ground," aimed at expanding ministry efforts and reaching more people for Christ. Speaker: Jeff Schwarzentraub

Pastor Jeff delivered a message focused on the importance of prioritizing God the Father in our lives, emphasizing the command to actively seek His kingdom and righteousness above all else. He discussed the challenges many believers face with anxiety and worry, asserting that true peace comes from trusting in the Father's provision. Drawing from Matthew 6:33, he encouraged the congregation to make God their central focus and to live righteously, assuring them that all their needs will be met when they do. Ultimately, he stressed that while faith may bring challenges, the rewards of a life lived in alignment with God are immeasurable and eternal. Speaker: Jeff Schwarzentraub

Pastor Jeff discusses the foundational aspects of the Father in the context of the Trinity, emphasizing that God is the architect of creation, outlining His design for humanity. He highlights the importance of understanding our identity as beings made in the image of God, which establishes our relational capacity, creativity, and moral responsibility. The pastor reinforces that God created two genders for the purpose of marriage and family, designed to reflect His glory and intention for human relationships. Ultimately, he calls the congregation to recognize their need for Jesus, who redeems and cleanses us from our sin nature, encouraging all to respond to God's offer of salvation. Speaker: Jeff Schwarzentraub

Pastor Jeff emphasized the attributes of the Father in his sermon, focusing on His omniscience, omnipresence, and omnipotence. He explained that God knows everything about us, is always with us, and possesses all power, which should inspire awe and reverence. He encouraged the congregation to respond to God's intimate knowledge of us with praise, to honor His holiness, and to follow Him faithfully in our lives. Ultimately, he reminded everyone that God is a good Father who desires a close relationship with us, offering love, guidance, and purpose. Speaker: Jeff Schwarzentraub

Pastor Jeff introduces the theme of the day, focusing on the compassion of the Father, rooted in the concept of the Trinity: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Using the parable of the Prodigal Son, he illustrates how the Father patiently awaits the return of sinners, celebrating their repentance with joy and love. Ultimately, Pastor Jeff emphasizes that every person must turn from their sin and seek a true relationship with God through Jesus Christ, reinforcing that all are welcome in the Father's embrace. Speaker: Jeff Schwarzentraub

We're called to examine the dangerous ideologies that threaten our faith and society. This message unveils how an ancient heresy, Gnosticism, has resurfaced in modern culture, influencing issues like abortion, homosexuality, and transgenderism. By separating the body from the soul, this false teaching devalues human life and God's design. The story of the kings in 1 and 2 Kings serves as a powerful warning: even good leaders who fail to fully eradicate evil can lead to society's downfall. As believers, we must recognize these ideologies for what they are - alternative creation stories that challenge God's truth. Our call is to stand firm, guided by Scripture which affirms our nature as body-soul unities. Let's commit to not just removing some evils, but to fully engaging in cultural reformation, lest we be remembered for the wickedness we tolerated rather than the good we accomplished. Speaker: Seth Gruber

Pastor Jeff emphasizes the importance of spiritual gifts in the church, reminding the congregation that these gifts are meant to build each other up and serve the body of Christ. He provides examples of various gifts, like evangelism and teaching, and encourages believers to discover and use their unique gifts to glorify God. Pastor Jeff highlights the significance of love and humility in delivering these gifts, asserting that without them, the gifts lose their power and purpose. As he prepares for communion, he reinforces the centrality of Jesus Christ as Lord and the shared mission of believers to serve one another through the gifts bestowed upon them. Speaker: Jeff Schwarzentraub

Pastor Jeff's message challenges us to embrace the true freedom Christ offers, based on Romans 8: there is no condemnation for those in Christ. Believers are freed from condemnation, sin's power the law's burden, spiritual ignorance, and death's sting. This freedom is not just about liberation from, but also to: worship, pray confidently, grow, step out in faith, and serve with love. Paralleling the Israelites' exodus, we're saved not just from something but for something greater. It urges us to reflect: Are we living fully in this freedom or held back by old fears? Step into a deeper, empowered life with Christ. Speaker: Jeff Schwarzentraub

Pastor Jeff emphasized the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in a believer's life during his sermon. He encouraged the congregation to actively seek a deeper relationship with God through prayer, fasting, and by being filled with the Spirit. By understanding their identity in Christ, renouncing sin, yielding to the Holy Spirit, and spending time with Jesus, believers can experience true growth and manifest Christ's love to others. The message highlighted that this ongoing process of being filled with the Spirit leads to genuine worship, thankfulness, and a preference for serving others. Speaker: Jeff Schwarzentraub

Speaker: Jeff Schwarzentraub

Speaker: Justin Hart

Speaker: Jeff Schwarzentraub

Pastor Jeff emphasized the importance of understanding the message of Christ and the various responses people have to it, using the Parable of the Sower as a focal point. He explained that while the seed represents God's Word, the soil reflects the condition of the heart, highlighting four types: the hardened heart, the shallow heart, the worldly heart, and the receptive heart, each leading to different spiritual outcomes. Pastor Jeff urged the congregation to recognize their own spiritual state, emphasizing that true belief results in fruitfulness and a genuine relationship with Christ. Ultimately, he called for individuals to examine their faith and consider making Jesus the Lord of their lives. Speaker: Jeff Schwarzentraub

Pastor Jeff emphasizes the transformative ministry of Jesus as depicted in Luke 18, highlighting that He came to challenge the prideful, teach the misunderstanding, and rescue the desperate. Through the stories of the rich young ruler and the blind man, Pastor Jeff illustrates how pride can lead to rejection of Jesus, while desperation leads to faith and worship. He emphasizes that Jesus seeks the lost, welcoming even the most unlikely individuals, like Zacchaeus, who responds with repentance and generosity. Ultimately, Pastor Jeff affirms that true forgiveness and salvation are available for all who recognize their need for Christ, emphasizing that our faith should rest not in our goodness but in Jesus' redemptive work on the cross. Speaker: Jeff Schwarzentraub

Pastor Jeff emphasized the miraculous and unique nature of the incarnation, highlighting how God became man in Jesus Christ. He articulated that this event is not only profound but also transformative, offering grace and truth that enable believers to live righteously. Pastor Jeff encouraged the congregation to recognize the significance of Christ's birth and the salvation it offers, urging them to trust in Jesus as the God-man who fulfilled the law and offers eternal life. Ultimately, he called for a response of worship and commitment to understand and share the incredible implications of the incarnation in their lives. Speaker: Jeff Schwarzentraub

Pastor Jeff emphasizes the importance of understanding the true identity of Jesus Christ as God, eternal, and the Creator of all things in his sermon. He highlights that Jesus is not only the source of life but also the light that dispels darkness, urging listeners to grasp the significance of believing in the biblical Jesus rather than a misconstrued version. Throughout the message, Pastor Jeff reinforces two main truths: that all authority lies in Jesus as the God-man and that fidelity to His identity is crucial for genuine faith. He calls on everyone to embrace Jesus Christ fully, inviting those who haven't yet done so to accept His life-giving gift. Speaker: Jeff Schwarzentraub

Pastor Jeff emphasizes the importance of being joyful, prayerful, and thankful as key elements of living according to God's will. He encourages individuals to prioritize worship by rejoicing always, even during difficult circumstances, and to maintain a consistent prayer life that deepens their relationship with Jesus. Through gratitude and thankfulness for both blessings and trials, believers can gain a proper perspective on life, recognizing that all things work together for good in Christ. The message concludes by inviting congregants to reflect on the sacrifice of Jesus through the taking of communion as a reminder of their identity and hope in Him. Speaker: Jeff Schwarzentraub

Pastor Jeff emphasized the importance of being ready for the second coming of Christ, contrasting the scoffers' disbelief with the certainty of His return. The pastor urged believers to live expectantly and grow in godliness, highlighting that true change comes not from commitments, but from a relationship with Jesus. He concluded by reminding the congregation that through grace, believers can live faithfully, peacefully, and authentically as they await Christ's return. Speaker: Jeff Schwarzentraub

Pastor Jeff emphasized the certainty of Christ's second coming and the importance of adhering to God's Word. He highlighted the patience of God, explaining that His delay in returning is due to His desire for all to come to repentance. Pastor Jeff also addressed the increase of mockers and skeptics who dismiss the promises of God, encouraging the congregation to remain resolute in faith despite external doubts. Finally, he urged everyone to be ready for the Lord's judgment, reminding them of the significance of living in light of Christ's return and the hope it brings. Speaker: Jeff Schwarzentraub

Pastor Jeff delivered a powerful sermon focusing on the dangers of false teachers, emphasizing their imminent and comprehensive destruction as warned in Scripture. He delineated the characteristics of false teachers, describing them as arrogant, ignorant, indulgent, adulterous, and immoral, highlighting how they over-promise and under-deliver while ultimately leading people away from the true message of Christ. Pastor Jeff reminded the congregation that true believers experience a change in nature through repentance and faith, which leads to genuine transformation in their lives. The message concluded with a call to seek God wholeheartedly and allow Him to change hearts and lives, underscoring the importance of discerning authentic faith from self-serving teachings. Speaker: Jeff Schwarzentraub

Pastor Jeff emphasizes the importance of identifying false teachers within the Church, highlighting how they can lead believers astray and undermine the truth of God's Word. Using biblical references, he warns that false teachers are deceptive, divisive, and often driven by greed and immorality, which makes them dangerous to the spiritual health of their listeners. Pastor Jeff urges the congregation to be vigilant in discerning the messages they receive, advocating for a deep commitment to the teachings of Scripture and a reliance on the authority of God's Word. He concludes by encouraging all to turn to Christ for genuine faith and salvation, reiterating the need for sound, biblical teaching in a world filled with misleading ideologies. Speaker: Jeff Schwarzentraub

Pastor Jeff emphasizes the importance of having a biblically rooted faith anchored in the powerful return of Jesus Christ, historical eyewitness testimonies, and the trustworthy scriptures. He warns against the influence of false teachers who distort the truths of the Bible and the nature of Christ's return. The significance of aligning one's beliefs and life with the teachings of scripture is highlighted, showing that true faith is not based on mere personal experience but on the collective witness of those who encountered Jesus. Ultimately, Pastor Jeff calls for an eagerness to prepare for Christ's return through repentance and a deep commitment to God's word. Speaker: Jeff Schwarzentraub

Pastor Jeff emphasizes the importance of constant communication with God as essential for spiritual growth and maintaining faith. He uses the analogy of a coach repeatedly teaching fundamentals to illustrate how believers need reminders of the gospel truths to stay the course. Drawing from the apostle Peter's teachings, Pastor Jeff encourages believers to be diligent in sharing their faith and being considerate of those who already believe, while also recognizing their own mortality and the urgency of their mission. Ultimately, the message empowers Christians to proactively live out their faith, reinforce their assurance of salvation, and share the gospel with others, knowing that it's a crucial task amidst a world often indifferent to the truth. Speaker: Jeff Schwarzentraub

Speaker: Jeff Schwarzentraub

In the sermon "Stay the Course," Pastor Jeff emphasizes the importance of understanding one's direction in faith and readiness to meet the Lord. He begins by urging listeners to reflect on their spiritual journey and to recognize the necessity of real saving faith, which he describes as a relationship grounded in humility, service, and the acknowledgment of Christ's transformative power. He highlights five key truths pertaining to real saving faith: the importance of humility over pride, the celebration of Christ's righteousness, deepening intimacy with the Lord to multiply grace and peace, recognizing the sufficiency of the Gospel, and relying on God's promises to navigate the challenges of worldly desires.Throughout the sermon, Pastor Jeff underscores that genuine faith is not merely about attending church or performing good deeds but involves a deep, personal relationship with Jesus that leads to profound internal transformation. Speaker: Jeff Schwarzentraub

Speaker: Jeff Schwarzentraub

Speaker: Greg Stier

Speaker: Justin Hart

Pastor Jeff discussed the significant impact of honesty and authenticity on one's spiritual journey. He emphasized our need to be truthful in our interactions not only with ourselves but also with God and those around us. In his words, he urged us to replace disrepute with honesty and authenticity. He pointed us to the importance of not camouflaging our struggles, mistakes, or doubts, but rather exposing them to the light of truth. Pastor Jeff found it essential that we allow God's grace to pour into our lives; this openness invigorates us towards forgiveness and acceptance. He strongly advised seeking backing from a genuine and faith-filled community, a community that would walk hand in hand on the path to spiritual growth. Being open and truthful paves the way for healing, growth, and transformation. By making a choice in favor of truth and authenticity, he said, we unlock the doors to a freedom that exists only in truthfulness. Speaker: Jeff Schwarzentraub

This week's sermon focused on emphasizing that singleness is a valuable stage in life and encouraging singles to embrace it with purpose. He highlights that Jesus and Paul were impactful singles who viewed singleness as an opportunity for faithful service. Pastor Jeff reminds singles to trust in God's plan, seek His guidance, and prioritize their relationship with Him over all else. He concludes by reassuring singles of God's presence, ability to fulfill His promises, and the importance of seeking wise counsel in navigating relationships. Speaker: Jeff Schwarzentraub

Speaker: Jeff Schwarzentraub

Speaker: Cal Rychener

Speaker: Jeff Schwarzentraub

In this sermon, Pastor Jeff emphasizes the importance of prayer and delves into the series on family and love, focusing on marriage as a vow to oneness. He highlights five truths about marriage, including regular listening, showing honor, intimacy, and the power of prayer. Pastor stresses the sacredness of marriage, encouraging couples to prioritize and invest in building strong, unified relationships through God's grace. The sermon provides practical guidance for cultivating a healthy marriage, grounded in biblical references and examples. Speaker: Jeff Schwarzentraub

Speaker: Jeff Schwarzentraub