Canyon Hills San Luis Obispo

In this episode, we kick off a new series on the book of Colossians, exploring its powerful relevance for everyday life. Centered around the theme "Jesus above everything," the message unpacks the historical challenges faced by the early church—such as humanism, legalism, mysticism, and asceticism—and how those same influences still affect us today. Listeners will be encouraged to place Jesus at the center of their lives, grow in faith, demonstrate love through action, and hold on to the hope of eternal life. Tune in as we begin this journey through Paul's teachings and prepare for what's ahead in this impactful series.

This weeks message focused on the topic of addiction, along with a live Q & with Leslie Nelson who shared her personal journey. The conversation highlighted the struggles and lowest points of addiction, as well as the moment of realization that change was necessary. The message emphasized the importance of compassion, wisdom, and hope for those struggling with addiction, reminding everyone that freedom is found in Christ. Biblical passages were used to illustrate how deliverance begins when self-reliance ends and how God hears the cries for help. The message encouraged patience and progression in the process of recovery, urging individuals to walk through the door of deliverance when God opens it. Ultimately, it conveyed that God sets people free not just for comfort but to lead them into the fullness of His promise.

This weekends message highlights the profound importance of family as one of God's greatest gifts to humanity. It underscores how families are often under spiritual attack, with efforts to weaken their strength and essential role in society. Drawing from the book of Genesis, the message pointed to God's original design for relationships, emphasizing that families thrive when God is at the center. The shift seen in the fall of Adam and Eve—from a God-centered life to self-centeredness—serves as a warning about the consequences of prioritizing personal desires over divine purpose, leading to broken relationships and emotional struggle.

In this sermon, the focus was on mental health—something that matters just as much today as it did in biblical times. It called out how churches sometimes miss the mark by ignoring the issue, over-spiritualizing it, or simply handing it off to professionals. Through the story of Elijah in 1 Kings 19, we were reminded that even strong believers can struggle with fear, anxiety, and burnout. The message offered honest encouragement, practical steps for healing, and wrapped up with a church member sharing professional insight to show that mental health is something the church takes seriously.

"From Turmoil to Triumph" offered encouragement to embrace faith's transformative power during life's challenges. Listeners were reminded that God's Word changes and challenges hearts, turning pain into victory. Drawing from personal experiences and the Book of Daniel, the message showed that despite chaos and conflict, God's plan remained firm. Listeners were called to shine brightly, stay steadfast in faith, and hold onto hope for a victorious future.

This week's sermon explored the life-changing power of Jesus Christ's resurrection, emphasizing its relevance to our everyday struggles and sense of purpose. Drawing from John 20, the message revisited Mary Magdalene's encounter with the risen Jesus and highlighted how that moment sparked a movement that transformed history. Listeners were challenged to reflect on what lies at the center of their lives and consider how inviting Jesus into that space can bring clarity, grace, and transformation.

In this message we look at the significance of Palm Sunday and the start of Holy Week. Discover how Jesus's triumphant entry into Jerusalem on a donkey fulfilled ancient prophecy and symbolized His mission as the peaceful Messiah. As we explore Matthew 21:1-11, we'll reflect on the crowd's cries of “Hosanna” and the challenge of maintaining true commitment to Jesus beyond the excitement of the moment.In this message, we'll explore key themes to guide us through Holy Week:Recognizing Jesus as King, even when He defies our expectations.Choosing conviction over convenience in our faith journey.Embracing both celebration and sacrifice as followers of Christ.Boldly sharing who Jesus is with those around us.Preparing our hearts for the full journey of Holy Week through reflection and prayer.Let's walk together from the cries of “Hosanna” to the victory of the empty tomb, engaging deeply and intentionally with the life and mission of Jesus. Don't miss this opportunity to grow in faith and understanding during this sacred time.

In this message on Daniel 10, the message explores Daniel's persistent prayer life during a time of mourning and fasting. It emphasizes that delays in answered prayer are not denials but can be signs of spiritual warfare. Prayer is described as both communication and communion with God. Common hindrances to prayer include spiritual battles, unconfessed sin, unforgiveness, selfish motives, and lack of concern for others. Listeners are encouraged to remain vigilant in prayer, despite distractions, and to pursue a deeper relationship with God through confession and forgiveness. The message concludes with a reminder that while answers may not come when expected, God is always at work behind the scenes, and trusting His timing is essential.

This sermon explores Daniel's powerful prayer after 66 years of exile, as he seeks understanding of Jeremiah's prophecy about Israel's 70-year captivity. At 84, Daniel prays with deep confession and humility, acknowledging both his sins and those of his people. His effectiveness in prayer stems from honesty, repentance, and a genuine relationship with God. The message also delves into the prophecies of Daniel 9, revealing their fulfillment in Jesus Christ's sacrificial death. It highlights how His death provides redemption and reconciliation with God, emphasizing salvation through grace. The sermon concludes by illustrating the precise prophecy of Jesus' death and resurrection, inviting listeners to embrace His transformative power for personal faith and eternal life.

This message highlights God's sovereignty in Daniel 8, showing how He orchestrates history, including the rise and fall of empires like Medo-Persia and Greece. It underscores the importance of humility, warning that pride leads to downfall—seen in the story of Antiochus IV, who opposed God and was ultimately defeated. The sermon also acknowledges the reality of persecution for believers, offering reassurance that God will triumph over evil. Rather than inspiring fear, prophecy should strengthen faithfulness. In closing, the message encourages trust in God's control and unwavering faith in uncertain times, reaffirming that He holds the final victory.

Pastor Rich unpacks the prophetic visions of Daniel 7, marking the shift from historical narrative to divine revelation. He urges the congregation to engage deeply—bringing Bibles and notebooks—to grasp the powerful symbolism of the four beasts, representing earthly empires, and the ominous "little horn," a foreshadowing of the Antichrist. Despite looming tribulations, he reassures that God's sovereignty prevails, Christ's kingdom is eternal, and ultimate victory is His. With a call to persevere in faith and fix our eyes on Christ's return, Pastor Rich leaves the congregation inspired to stand firm, no matter the trials ahead.

In this weeks message, we discussed the well-known story of Daniel in the lion's den, emphasizing that while God can rescue us, it does not guarantee we will be spared from every trial. The message highlights four key characters: the jealous instigators, Daniel who exemplifies integrity, King Darius who values loyalty, and God's sovereignty throughout the situation. Pastor Rich encourages the congregation to guard against jealousy, embrace integrity, and recognize the importance of loyalty in their relationships. Ultimately, the big idea presented is that God is in control, and we can trust in Him during both trials and triumphs.

Pastor Rich Shepherd explores the story of King Belshazzar from Daniel 5, emphasizing his pride and disregard for God's authority, which ultimately led to his downfall. During a lavish feast, Belshazzar desecrated sacred temple vessels, provoking God's judgment, symbolized by a mysterious writing on the wall that Daniel interprets as a warning of his impending doom. The message urges believers to remember past lessons, maintain a holy reverence for God, and reflect on the example they set for others. Ultimately, Pastor encourages the congregation to learn from failures and stay anchored in faith, as God's grace provides strength even in weakness.

In today's episode, Pastor Rich takes us on a deep dive into Daniel chapter four, where we witness the dramatic downfall of King Nebuchadnezzar—a man consumed by pride. From a mighty ruler to living like a beast for seven years, his story is a powerful reminder of what happens when arrogance takes over. This message unpacks the dangers of pride, how it can damage our lives and relationships (including our connection with God), and why humility is the key to true wisdom. Tune in for an insightful discussion on recognizing God's sovereignty and learning to trust Him fully.

Join us in this episode of Lions & Last Days as we explore the powerful story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego from Daniel 3. Discover their unwavering faith in the face of Nebuchadnezzar's fiery furnace and how their courage speaks to us today.We'll discuss idolatry, trust in God, and practical ways to stand strong in life's challenges. Be inspired by their faithfulness and gain insights to persevere in your own trials. Tune in for encouragement and spiritual tools to overcome adversity!

No matter what's happening in the world, one truth remains—God is in control! In this episode, Pastor Rich unpacks a powerful lesson from the Book of Daniel, where Daniel faces a life-threatening challenge with unwavering faith. Instead of panicking, he seeks God's wisdom, gathers his friends to pray, and trusts in divine insight. Through the interpretation of Nebuchadnezzar's dream, we see the rise and fall of earthly kingdoms, but one thing is certain—God's kingdom stands forever. Join us as Pastor Rich encourages us to lean into prayer, surround ourselves with wise companions, and trust God's wisdom, especially in uncertain times.

Pastor Rich Shepherd begins a new series on the Book of Daniel, emphasizing that God is in control and that trusting Him leads to overcoming life's challenges. He explores how Daniel and his friends maintained their faith and holiness while facing trials in a foreign land, highlighting their commitment to God's Word despite pressures to conform. The pastor encourages the congregation to deepen their holiness and trust God amid uncertainties, illustrating how God's favor and wisdom guided Daniel's journey. Ultimately, the message emphasizes that through faith and obedience, God works all things for good, calling believers to draw closer to Him.

In this message, Pastor Fern talks about the passion and perseverance of the Thessalonian church, reflecting on how the Apostle Paul was motivated to spread the gospel out of love for Christ, not for mere quotas. He emphasizes three key actions for maintaining loyalty to the mission: striving to please God over people, nurturing new believers, and living in a way that is worthy of God. Pastor Fern stresses the importance of supporting and nurturing fellow believers, illustrating how our lives should serve as testimonies of our faith. Ultimately, he calls on everyone to live with intention in their spiritual walks, encouraging reflection on how we handle trials and how we impact those around us.

Today's message, "When You Give," reflects on Jesus' teachings in Matthew 6, emphasizing the importance of the heart's motive in giving. It warns against seeking human recognition and encourages a sincere, personal approach to generosity. Practical steps include addressing selfishness, cultivating gratitude, and embracing tithing and offerings as acts of faith that advance God's kingdom. The message ultimately highlights that true giving reflects our relationship with God and empowers the church to fulfill its mission.

In today's message, Pastor Rich continued the "Set Apart" mini-series, focusing on prayer from Matthew 6. He emphasized that prayer, fasting, and giving are vital to spiritual growth. In our time we highlighted prayer as heartfelt communication with God, built on trust and reliance—not just routine words. We outlined key elements of effective prayer, including honoring God, submitting to His will, seeking provision, extending forgiveness, and asking for protection. We're encouraged making prayer a daily habit and engaging with God continually.

In week 1 of our new series, "Set Apart," we take a deep dive into the spiritual discipline of fasting, drawn from Matthew 6. Highlighting Jesus' call to give, pray, and fast, we explore fasting as a powerful yet often neglected practice. While feasting is common, fasting is rare—only 17% of American Christians practice it. In this message, we unpack its biblical roots, clarify its purpose as a spiritual pursuit (not a diet or social media detox), and offer practical steps for starting a 21-day fast on January 6. Through personal stories and encouragement, this message inspires the congregation to embrace fasting as a pathway to spiritual renewal, a deeper connection with God, and answered prayer.

In concluding the Christmas series "The Nativity Experience," Pastor Rich highlights that true peace can only be found in Jesus, contrasting the popular notion of "Peace on Earth" with the reality that Jesus provides "On Earth Peace." This message explains that peace is a divine gift and introduces four major disruptors of peace: unavoidable circumstances, unbearable people, unexplainable problems, and uncontrollable worry. To activate God's peace, he emphasizes the importance of recognizing Jesus' lordship, inviting Him into every situation, and keeping one's focus on Him. Ultimately, genuine peace, resting in the midst of life's chaos, is attainable through faith in Jesus.

In today's message, Pastor Rich highlights the shepherds' humble yet vital role in the Christmas story, drawing a powerful connection to Jesus, the Good Shepherd, who came to lead and save humanity. He reminds us that what seems insignificant on earth is deeply valued in heaven and calls us to align our lives with God's priorities. The message concludes with an inspiring challenge: to share the transformative power of Christ and stay open to His guidance, knowing we are all part of God's greater story.

In today's message, Pastor Rich reflects on Mary's vital role in the Christmas story as part of "The Nativity Experience" series. He highlights that God chose Mary for her humility, purity, and unwavering trust in the supernatural. Mary, a humble woman from an unlikely place, faithfully honored God's ways. Pastor Rich inspires the congregation to embrace humility, give thanks to God in advance for answered prayers, and persevere through challenges. He reminds us that true faith is shown through trust and obedience, even in the face of uncertainty. Above all, he offers reassurance that Jesus is always with us, turning the impossible into the possible.

In our new series, The Nativity Experience, we'll explore the characters of the Christmas story, uncovering powerful truths they lived out during challenging times—far from the picture-perfect scenes on Christmas cards. Together we'll discover how these lessons still apply today.

This sermon focuses on the theme of "Spiritual Hunger" and the importance of inviting God into our lives to experience His fullness. It uses the story of Jesus feeding the 5,000 from John 6:1-14 to illustrate different perspectives on faith and miracles.

We Want More Week 2 focuses on the theme of spiritual hunger and the disciplines that fuel itThe key message is that the extent to which we experience God is determined by how much we invite Him into our lives. The message was based on the parable of the sower from Luke 8, which illustrates the barriers to spiritual growth and the keys to overcoming them.

In week one of our new series, We Want More, Pastor Rich emphasizes the importance of spiritual hunger in the life of a believer, stating that we can experience as much of God as we choose. He highlights that true spiritual hunger involves both desire and action, encouraging listeners to actively pursue a deeper relationship with Jesus. Using the Beatitudes and a story from Mark, he illustrates that Jesus responds to spiritual hunger with fulfillment and blessings.

Pastor concludes the series "To Be Continued" focused on the teachings of Acts, emphasizing the need for believers to be dynamic and daring in their faith. Highlighting Paul's journey to Rome amidst trials, he showcases Paul as a counselor, encourager, helper, and preacher who remained steadfast in God's promises despite adversity. The sermon encourages the congregation to trust in God's promises, be sources of encouragement to others, and embody hope in challenging times. Ultimately, the message underscores the importance of faith and community support as vital components of advancing God's Kingdom.

In this weeks message, Pastor Rich emphasized the importance of being dynamic believers and a daring church as illustrated in Paul's experiences in Acts. He highlighted Paul's integrity, respectful demeanor, and wise counsel-seeking even in challenging situations, demonstrating how these qualities enable effective witness and living out the Gospel. The message encourages believers to live with integrity, conduct themselves respectfully in conflicts, and actively seek wisdom from others. Ultimately, we're reminded that these principles not only reflect our faith but also help advance God's Kingdom in our lives and communities.

This weekend, we discussed Paul's imprisonment and his boldness in proclaiming the Gospel despite false accusations from the Jewish leaders. We emphasized that Paul remained patient and maintained the right perspective even in difficult circumstances, trusting in God's plan for his life. The message also urged us to come to terms with sin and recognize the urgency of sharing the Gospel, highlighting that delayed decisions regarding faith can have serious consequences. Ultimately, we were encouraged to passionately pursue opportunities to share our faith, just as Paul did, with a reminder that the good news of Jesus is meant for all.

In the message, Pastor Rich discusses Paul's determination to go to Jerusalem despite warnings from friends and the Jerusalem church, highlighting the misunderstandings surrounding his intentions. Paul remained committed to his mission, believing he was part of a solution to the division between Jewish and Gentile believers. As he faced opposition and ultimately became a prisoner, the emphasis shifted to obedience to God, the inevitability of misunderstandings in life, and the importance of sharing personal testimonies. The message encourages living courageously, persevering through challenges, and recognizing the potential impact one's faithfulness can have on others.

Today's message focuses on Paul's farewell journey and message, illustrating his dedication to encouraging believers while facing challenges. Key takeaways include the importance of flexibility, speaking truth with care, embodying humility, generosity in helping those in need, and fostering deep relationships within the church community. The message concludes with encouragement to adapt to life's unpredictability and maintain a strong, supportive connection with one another.

In today's message, we talked about how God performed extraordinary miracles through Paul, particularly in Ephesus, where many were healed and freed from evil spirits. The narrative highlights the failure of the seven sons of Sceva, who attempted to exorcise demons without a genuine relationship with Jesus, leading to their humiliation and the magnification of Christ's power. As the Gospel spread, it threatened local idolatry, prompting a riot incited by silversmith Demetrius, but order was eventually restored. The speaker emphasizes the importance of genuine faith, recognizance of spiritual warfare, the necessity of confession and repentance, awareness of materialism, and the support of a community in our spiritual journeys.

In today's message, we emphasized the importance of discipleship, highlighting how Paul and Apollos worked to strengthen believers in their faith. Apollos, though knowledgeable, initially preached an incomplete Gospel, but his humility allowed him to learn from Priscilla and Aquila, exemplifying the need for teachability in ministry. We also discusses the significance of the Holy Spirit, noting that it empowers and guides believers in their Christian walk, as seen when Paul baptized and laid hands on disciples in Ephesus to receive the Spirit. Finally, we were encouraged to adopt a spirit of encouragement and correction through private conversations and to seek a deeper relationship with the Holy Spirit for guidance and strength.

Today's message, "Don't Quit too Soon" from our series "To Be Continued"  delves into Paul's emotional state in Corinth, facing disappointments and shifting focus to the Gentiles due to opposition. Practical lessons include participating in ministry, embracing opposition for growth, and seeking God's encouragement at every step.

Today's message titled "Who Will Tell Them?" focused on Paul's mission in Athens from Acts 17:16-34. The message highlighted Paul's engagement with diverse groups in sharing the gospel, emphasizing the importance of bold proclamation and thoughtful engagement in evangelism within different cultural contexts. The message underscored key points about God as creator, provider, ruler, and savior, calling for repentance and offering eternal life through Jesus. Pastor Rich urged the audience to imitate Paul's approach, emphasizing the urgency of evangelism and the need to rescue others from eternal separation without Christ.

Acts 17:1-15, focusing on Paul's journey through Thessalonica and Berea shows 2 different responses to the Word of God. Thessalonica shows resistance and persecution faced by early Christians, while Berea exemplifies open hearts and a diligent pursuit of truth. Lessons drawn include prioritizing church attendance, daily study of the Bible, and standing firm in faith despite challenges. This message underscores the courage and dedication of early Christians, inspiring believers to persist in sharing the gospel boldly today.

In the message "Just praise your way through it!" from Pastor Rich from the series "To Be Continued," the importance of listening to the Holy Spirit and following His guidance is explored using Acts 16:6-40. Today's emphasizes obeying the Holy Spirit's directions, even when they seem contrary to our own judgment. The narrative of Paul's journey highlights the Holy Spirit's guidance in their movements and emphasizes God's heart for all people. Despite facing opposition and persecution, Paul and Silas choose to worship and praise God in their difficult circumstances, leading to miraculous events in the prison. The sermon concludes with the encouragement to trust in the power of praise and leave a positive impact wherever we go.

In the message, "Don't Close the Door to the Gospel" from the series "To Be Continued," Pastor Rich examines conflict resolution using Acts 15 as a guide. Disagreement arose regarding the need for Gentiles to be circumcised for salvation, but the leaders concluded salvation is through faith in Christ alone. The process included dispute, defense, and decision in a show of unity and love. Pastor Rich emphasizes resolving conflicts biblically to maintain unity and effectively share the gospel.

Today's message focuses on walking in the Spirit to strengthen relationships, based on Galatians 5:16-25. The message addresses the dangers of legalism, emphasizing justification by faith in Jesus, not works of the law. Through examples of works of the flesh and fruit of the Spirit, Pastor Rich highlights the importance of relying on the Holy Spirit for spiritual growth and transformation. The main takeaway is the need to pivot from fleshly desires to living in the Spirit, cultivating healthy relationships marked by love, joy, peace, and other virtues.

In today's message, Scott Golin walks us through these powerful 28 verses that show adversity, violence, and a miracle to top it off. Here we'll learn 4 things that change everything.

In today's message, we delve into the power of the Gospel in Paul's first sermon, stressing the importance of anchoring oneself in Scripture and preaching the Word. Through his sermon in the synagogue, Paul connects the history of Israel to Jesus, the promised Savior. Emphasizing Jesus' death and resurrection, Paul highlights that faith in Jesus brings justification and forgiveness, not adherence to the law. Despite opposition, the message urges us to remain joyful and steadfast in the faith, nourishing ourself with the Word of God.

This weeks message delves into Acts 13:1-5, focusing on the church in Antioch and its diverse leadership team composed of prophets and teachers. The message emphasizes the significance of multicultural and multigenerational leadership for a vibrant ministry and the spiritual disciplines of worship, fasting, and prayer for discerning God's will. By examining Paul and Barnabas' encounters with Elymas the sorcerer, Pastor Rich stresses the importance of boldly standing for the truth and exposing lies to lead others to Christ.

Today's message "God's Purpose Always Prevails" from the series "To Be Continued" we look into Peter's miraculous escape from prison in Acts 12. Herod Agrippa's persecution of the early church sets the stage for Peter's imprisonment, prompting fervent prayer from believers. Through divine intervention, Peter is freed from chains and delivers a powerful message to the church, emphasizing the importance of prayer and experiencing God's peace in difficult times. The message reflects on God's protection, contrasting James' martyrdom with Peter's deliverance, and concludes with the reminder of God's sovereignty and the continued growth of His church through bold missionary endeavors.

In todays message, "The Need of Discipleship," Pastor Rich discusses how believers should be dynamic and daring like the early Church. He highlights the importance of discipleship and being discipled, drawing on the actions of Barnabas and Saul in Antioch. The message emphasizes seeking out qualified teachers, discipleship within the local church, and the patience required for spiritual growth.

In today's message, Pastor Rich emphasized the inclusivity of the Gospel through Peter's preaching to the gentiles in Acts 10. Key points included the power of personal testimonies, the call to pray, give, and go to spread the Gospel, and the importance of facing criticism with grace. Believers were encouraged to be dynamic and daring in sharing the transformative story of Jesus to all, locally and globally, to make a significant impact in the world.

In the message, "No Telling What God Can Do Through You" we focused on being close to God, sharing the gospel with everyone, and obeying God's commands. We used the example of Cornelius to show the power of personal intimacy with God and the power of the gospel message. The sermon challenges believers to be bold and obedient in following God's will, emphasizing the need to love God wholeheartedly, extend grace to all, and expect guidance in reaching out to diverse groups of people.

In this weeks message, we explore how the early church advanced the Kingdom of God through the power of the Holy Spirit. Peter performs miracles healing Aeneas and resurrecting Tabitha, leading many to believe. Emphasizing the importance of being active and prayerful, Pastor Rich encourages spreading the Gospel through acts of kindness, prayer, and service.