Christ Church Memphis

Send us a textThis sermon examines 1 Corinthians 3:1-9, emphasizing the importance of spiritual maturity and the risks of division in the church. Missions Pastor Nathan Cook contextualizes the struggles of the Corinthian believers, highlighting their reliance on charismatic leaders and cultural influences. True growth is illustrated as arising from a relationship with God rather than human authority. Listeners are encouraged to self-examine regarding cultural influences on faith and are reminded that spiritual maturity requires obedience to God's spirit. We are called for unity in Christ, urging the congregation to prioritize their identity in Him and to engage in actions that reflect Christ's teachings.HOME | PLAN YOUR VISIT | BLOG | DIGITAL BULLETIN

Send us a textThe Prodigal Church #6: Still drinking spiritual milk? Paul Lawler's sermon from 1 Corinthians 3 challenges us to break patterns of immaturity and grow into the Spirit-filled life we're meant for.------Many believers live spiritually stunted lives—not because they've rejected Christ, but because they've settled for milk when God offers solid food. Preaching from 1 Corinthians 3:1–9, Pastor Paul Lawler lays out three challenges: Will we live on a spiritual plane or a natural one? Will we mature in Christ or remain infants? And will we live as merely human, or be transformed into Spirit-empowered people of God? Drawing from real stories of mission and ministry, this sermon presses believers to break the patterns of fear, control, and complacency that keep us in the flesh. Instead, we are invited to cultivate hearts ready for God's growth, step into supernatural life in Christ, and live lives that glorify not the one who plants or waters, but the God who gives the growth.HOME | PLAN YOUR VISIT | BLOG | DIGITAL BULLETIN

Send us a textThe sermon on 1 Corinthians 2:6-16 contrasts divine wisdom with worldly wisdom, urging spiritual insight through the Holy Spirit, and highlights humility, service, and the importance of prayer and scripture in embodying God's love.HOME | PLAN YOUR VISIT | BLOG | DIGITAL BULLETIN

Send us a textMost people think they see the world clearly—but what if everything you're trusting is a lie? This message might disrupt your comfort, but it could also open your eyes.HOME | PLAN YOUR VISIT | BLOG | DIGITAL BULLETIN

Send us a textIs your faith built on human wisdom or the power of God? In this message from 1 Corinthians 2:1–5, Nathan Cook invites us to embrace weakness, reject worldly status, and discover the power of God at work through surrendered lives.HOME | PLAN YOUR VISIT | BLOG | DIGITAL BULLETIN

Send us a textIn a culture addicted to influence, polish, and power, the Apostle Paul offers a radical alternative: faith rooted not in human wisdom, but in the power of God. Discover how 1 Corinthians 2:1–5 still challenges the Church today.HOME | PLAN YOUR VISIT | BLOG | DIGITAL BULLETIN

Send us a textThis sermon examines the themes in 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, highlighting the paradox of the cross as articulated by the Apostle Paul. Christ Methodist Family Ministry Director Brad Bogue guides listeners through the interplay of divine wisdom and worldly expectations, emphasizing how the crucifixion embodies apparent contradictions, representing both folly and strength. His sermon also extends to the role of women in nurturing faith and the challenges faced by early believers, particularly Jewish and Greek communities. Bogue addresses how societal divisions and expectations impact contemporary understanding of God's grace, urging attendees to reflect on their personal faith journeys in light of the cross. Ultimately, he encourages a deeper contemplation of God's love revealed through Christ's sacrifice and the call to embrace humility and reliance on divine grace.HOME | PLAN YOUR VISIT | BLOG | DIGITAL BULLETIN

Send us a textWhy does the message of the cross seem foolish to so many—and yet life-changing to others? Discover the surprising answer in Paul's letter to the Corinthians and what it reveals about belief, grace, and divine wisdom.--------Paul's letter to the Corinthians unpacks why some people embrace the gospel while others reject it. The message of the cross sounds foolish to those perishing, but it's the power of God to those being saved. Salvation isn't a product of intellect or status—it's divine revelation. The gospel defies human logic, and God deliberately uses what the world deems weak to reveal His strength. Faith comes not by reason alone, but by God's mercy and calling. Believers are those whom God has drawn, anointed, and awakened to truth.HOME | PLAN YOUR VISIT | BLOG | DIGITAL BULLETIN

Send us a textWhat if our church disagreements weren't just about preferences, but revealed something deeper—something that could either fracture or glorify Christ? Discover how Paul's letter to Corinth challenges our assumptions and calls us to something better.----------1 Corinthians 1:10–17 reminds us that the Church is meant to reflect the unity found in Christ, not the divisions of the world. Paul rebukes the Corinthians for aligning with personalities over Jesus and urges them to reorder their hearts around the gospel, not preferences. Unity in the Church flows from union with Christ—and it's this kind of unity that carries a powerful witness to a divided world.HOME | PLAN YOUR VISIT | BLOG | DIGITAL BULLETIN

Send us a textWhat happens when our loyalties to people, politics, or preferences start to overshadow our allegiance to Christ? This message explores Paul's urgent plea for unity and what it means for the modern church.-------Paul's letter to the Corinthian church warns against divisions rooted in loyalty to leaders or ideologies instead of Christ. Despite being spiritually gifted, the church lacked unity because they lost sight of their shared identity in Jesus. True unity comes not from agreement alone but from being rooted in Christ, who alone holds the church together. The call remains: let Christ—not preferences, pride, or personality—be the foundation of our faith and fellowship.HOME | PLAN YOUR VISIT | BLOG | DIGITAL BULLETIN

Send us a textTwo women, one grieving a miscarriage and the other an adoptive mom, share their honest, faith-filled stories of motherhood, loss, and healing, reminding us that every path to motherhood reflects the heart of God.Courtney Merriman (Christ Methodist Director of Upper Elementary Ministries) and Laura Greenwell (Christ Methodist Director of Women's Ministry) open up about miscarriage, infertility, and adoption in a heartfelt Mother's Day conversation. They reflect on the grief and hope tied to motherhood, the importance of telling your story, and how God meets us in unexpected ways. Whether you're celebrating, grieving, or both, this episode offers encouragement for every season of motherhood.HOME | PLAN YOUR VISIT | BLOG | DIGITAL BULLETIN

Send us a textIn this sermon, we begin a series on Paul's first letter to the Corinthians, uncovering our divine calling. We explore the significance of Paul's introduction in 1 Corinthians 1:1-9, emphasizing the church's sanctification, grace, and the essential role of fellowship with Christ. From understanding our call to holiness to considering our vocational purpose, this sermon challenges us to reflect on how we live out our faith in a world that desperately needs transformation. HOME | PLAN YOUR VISIT | BLOG | DIGITAL BULLETIN

Send us a textWhat happens when a gifted church forgets who it's really following? This reflection on 1 Corinthians 1:1–9 confronts three deep issues facing the modern prodigal church and the path back to Christ-centered living.HOME | PLAN YOUR VISIT | BLOG | DIGITAL BULLETIN

Send us a textWhat does Easter truly mean to you? This sermon explores why Jesus had to die, what His resurrection means, and how it impacts our lives today. Discover the powerful truth behind the resurrection—the victory over death, sin, and the promise of eternal life with God. Have you embraced this new life in Christ?HOME | PLAN YOUR VISIT | BLOG | DIGITAL BULLETIN

Send us a textWhat does Jesus' resurrection really mean for you? It's not just a historical event—it's the launchpad for a new life in Christ. In this Easter message, Rev. Paul Lawler explores why Jesus had to die, what His resurrection means for your future, and how it transforms your present. Are you ready to step into the new life He offers?HOME | PLAN YOUR VISIT | BLOG | DIGITAL BULLETIN

Send us a textHow does Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem defy our expectations of power and royalty? Jesus entered the city not on a war horse but humbly, riding on a donkey. What does this say about the kind of kingdom He is bringing?In this moment, the crowds declared Jesus their king, but were they ready to accept the kind of king He truly was? What does it look like to lay down our own kingdoms, our desires, and our expectations to make room for His reign?Jesus' humble entry challenges us to surrender all—our ambitions, our brokenness, and even our false ideas of who He is. Will we open the doors of our hearts to the King who offers grace, forgiveness, and transformation?HOME | PLAN YOUR VISIT | BLOG | DIGITAL BULLETIN

Send us a textUpon Jesus' entry into Jerusalem, the crowds praised Him for who they wanted Him to be, not who He truly was. From misplaced expectations to the power of truth, this Palm Sunday message challenges us to love what is true, walk in light, and follow Christ not for our benefit but for His glory.HOME | PLAN YOUR VISIT | BLOG | DIGITAL BULLETIN

Send us a textWhat happens when confession leads to communion and preference gives way to purpose? This message invites you to step out of isolation and into a Spirit-filled community where true fellowship isn't just possible—it's transformative.HOME | PLAN YOUR VISIT | BLOG | DIGITAL BULLETIN

Send us a textWhat if true community isn't just about connection but confession, commitment, and Christ at the center? This sermon explores the difference between treating people like commodities and embracing them as companions on the journey of grace.HOME | PLAN YOUR VISIT | BLOG | DIGITAL BULLETIN

Send us a textWhat if the greatest threat to your spiritual life isn't doubt—but busyness? In a world sprinting toward exhaustion, this message invites you to rediscover the power of stillness, the beauty of unhurried worship, and the deep soul-healing found in prayer that never stops.HOME | PLAN YOUR VISIT | BLOG | DIGITAL BULLETIN

Send us a textWhat if prayer isn't just something you do but the atmosphere you live in? Discover the kind of worship that doesn't end when the music stops and the kind of prayer that keeps you grounded when life shakes your foundation.HOME | PLAN YOUR VISIT | BLOG | DIGITAL BULLETIN

Send us a textIs it possible to believe in the Bible without truly submitting to it? Explore what it looks like to move from simply reading Scripture to letting it shape your life, thinking, and identity—right here, right now.HOME | PLAN YOUR VISIT | BLOG | DIGITAL BULLETIN

Send us a textContinuing our series on Christ Methodist's Core Values, Executive Pastor Josh Landen explores Hebrews 11 and focuses on the essential role of faith in our belief in God. He defines faith as assurance and conviction, using biblical figures like Abel and Enoch to illustrate how their faith shaped their actions and hearts.As believers, we must persevere in faith and note how everyone will experience testing and refinement. Faith should be our focus in our ongoing journey, and we must develop a prayer life for deeper engagement and transformation in our lives through trust in God.HOME | PLAN YOUR VISIT | BLOG | DIGITAL BULLETIN

Send us a textIn this sermon, Rev. Paul Lawler dives into Core Value #2: Move in Faith, focusing on the nature of living faith as described in Hebrews 11:1-6. We explore how living faith is fueled by conviction and evidence, moving beyond passive belief into active trust in God's promises. He illustrates that true faith is not about risk or emotion but the assurance that God will fulfill what He has promised.We also reflect on how others' testimonies strengthen our faith and how God's Word increases our understanding of His will, equipping us to act confidently. The sermon emphasizes the importance of seeking God earnestly, knowing He rewards those who diligently pursue Him with all their hearts.HOME | PLAN YOUR VISIT | BLOG | DIGITAL BULLETIN

Send us a textIn this sermon, Executive Pastor Josh Landen delves into the message of love from 1 John 4:7-21, emphasizing its importance as a divine command and a core value of our faith. Hear how love should manifest in our actions, reflecting God's nature through Jesus' teachings and sacrifice. Listeners are called to confront barriers to loving others and commit to reconciliation. HOME | PLAN YOUR VISIT | BLOG | DIGITAL BULLETIN

Send us a textIn this sermon, Pastor Paul explores the first Core Value of Christ Methodist: Act in Love, diving into the profound implications of 1 John 4:7-21. He unpacks the roots of love, understanding that love flows directly from God's character. As we explore the powerful gift of the Gospel, we reflect on how God's sacrificial love through Jesus Christ serves as the foundation for our love toward others.When we delve into the significance of God's initiative in loving us first, he draws parallels between God's unyielding love for us and how we are called to love others. In this context, love is not passive but active, transformative, and rooted in the deeper understanding that God abides in us through His Spirit.Embracing God's love builds our confidence to act in love, especially in times of conflict or uncertainty. Listeners are reminded that true love, perfected in us, dispels fear and compels us to live out the commandment to love one another.This sermon encourages us to move beyond passive feelings and into active, Christ-centered love, living out the Gospel in practical ways in our relationships with others.HOME | PLAN YOUR VISIT | BLOG | DIGITAL BULLETIN

Send us a textIn this sermon, Executive Pastor Josh Landen explores the theme of spiritual awakening through our church's vision statement. Drawing on historical examples, he discusses the transformative power of the Holy Spirit and the prophetic call from Ezekiel about revitalization. We emphasize the need for communal awakening to revive our church and communities. The sermon concludes with a call to action for each member to reflect on their spiritual state and embrace the journey toward renewal in God's love and purpose.HOME | PLAN YOUR VISIT | BLOG | DIGITAL BULLETIN

Send us a textIn this sermon, Rev. Paul Lawler explores the vision of Ezekiel 37 and its relevance for our spiritual awakening today. Ezekiel's vision of dry bones is a vivid reminder that no situation, no matter how hopeless, is beyond God's ability to revive and restore. As we look at the people of Israel in exile, we consider how God's breath and His word can breathe life into our brokenness and despair. He delves into how revival can shake even the deepest parts of our lives, restoring hope, faith, and purpose.This sermon challenges us to examine the areas where we may feel “cut off” or spiritually dead and invites us to open ourselves to God's transformative power. Discover how God's breath can bring you back to life and how, as a community, we can be part of the spiritual awakening that the world so desperately needs.HOME | PLAN YOUR VISIT | BLOG | DIGITAL BULLETIN

Send us a textIn this sermon, Missions Pastor Nathan Cook dives into the biblical call to holiness and its transformative impact on our lives as Christians. Reflecting on 1 Thessalonians 4:1-12, he shares the Apostle Paul's exhortation to pursue sanctification, especially in areas like sexuality and our understanding of our bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit. Holiness is not just about personal purity—it's about aligning our lives with God's will, which radically shapes our relationships, including marriage, and our role in the community.Nathan also reflects on how society's views on freedom and personal choice often contrast with God's call for purity, especially in light of cultural norms. Drawing from the teachings of Tim Keller, he examines the biblical framework for marriage, where both partners submit in love, modeling Christ's relationship with the Church.This sermon also emphasizes the role of scriptural holiness in our mission work and service to others. With 34 ministry partners in our community, Nathan shares how we extend God's love through acts of justice and compassion, living out the transformative power of holiness. Tune in as we challenge ourselves to embrace a lifestyle of holiness that not only honors God but also impacts the world around us.HOME | PLAN YOUR VISIT | BLOG | DIGITAL BULLETIN

Send us a textIn this sermon, Rev. Paul explores the concept of Scriptural Holiness and its importance within the context of the Christian faith. Drawing from 1 Thessalonians 4:1-12, he shares how holiness isn't just about outward actions or rituals but about the inner transformation that comes from being deeply connected to God's will. This concept is often called sanctification or being made perfect in love—a state where God's love takes root and transforms our hearts. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on what this means for us today, and we're challenged to think about how holiness empowers us to love extravagantly, serve boldly, and spread God's grace across the world. HOME | PLAN YOUR VISIT | BLOG | DIGITAL BULLETIN

Send us a textIsaiah 58:6-10 highlights the call to justice. Christ Methodist Student Pastor William Merriman contrasts true worship with false practices that neglect the marginalized, emphasizing that fasting must be paired with acts of service. He introduces the Hebrew terms "mishpat" (justice) and "hesed" (mercy) to highlight their interconnection.Merriman calls for a reevaluation of worship and Christianity's historical role in advocating for human dignity. He presents a three-step action plan for congregants: awareness, relationship building, and community service. Ultimately, he stresses that internal transformation and personal repentance are essential for effectively serving the marginalized, inviting congregants to embody justice, mercy, and humility in their faith.HOME | PLAN YOUR VISIT | BLOG | DIGITAL BULLETIN

Send us a textIn this sermon, Rev. Paul Lawler explores Isaiah 58:6-10 in conjunction with our Vision Statment, which shares, "serving the poor, the oppressed and marginalized." In our passage, God calls His people to perform religious rituals and live out a love that transforms the world. As the Israelites return from exile, they are shocked by God's rebuke: their fasting and prayers are meaningless because they neglect the poor, oppressed, and marginalized. Rev. Paul shares how God's heart is not in mere outward actions but in the way we treat others, especially those in desperate need. From injustice to apathy, Isaiah challenges us to live a life that reflects God's love and justice. Through practical examples, we're reminded that serving others is true worship's core. God promises that when we serve with sincerity, we will see His light, healing, and glory in our lives. HOME | PLAN YOUR VISIT | BLOG | DIGITAL BULLETIN

Send us a textIn this sermon, Pastor Josh Landen, Executive Pastor, reflects on Acts 4:1-12, where Peter and John boldly proclaim the resurrection of Jesus despite facing arrest and opposition. Empowered by the Holy Spirit, Peter's transformation serves as a powerful example of witnessing to our faith with courage, even in the face of challenges.Pastor Josh shares a personal story about a car accident that illustrated how faith and witness intersect in moments of chaos, calling us to be ready for divine opportunities. He explores the church's mission to be a gospel-centered community through worship, love, and boldness—boldness that isn't brash but Spirit-led confidence.He offers practical ways to witness in daily life, from sharing testimonies to fostering holy conversations tailored to each person's unique gifts. Pastor Josh also addresses the reality that many Christians struggle to share their faith, urging listeners to view witnessing not as a burden but as a joyful privilege.Finally, Pastor Josh challenges listeners to pray for divine appointments and step boldly into their role as witnesses, trusting the Holy Spirit to guide them as they live out the Great Commission.HOME | PLAN YOUR VISIT | BLOG | DIGITAL BULLETIN

Send us a textIn this sermon, Rev. Paul Lawler dives into Acts 4:1-12 to explore the call to witness boldly for Jesus. Despite misunderstanding and opposition, we see a powerful response of the early church to the Gospel. From Peter's fearless declaration of Jesus as the only Savior to the growing challenge of evangelism today, we reflect on what it means to be a witness in a world that increasingly resists the message of Christ. Drawing from the Great Commission and John Wesley's passion for intentional evangelism, Pastor Paul challenges us to consider how we can boldly share our faith through prayer, actions, and relationships. HOME | PLAN YOUR VISIT | BLOG | DIGITAL BULLETIN

Send us a textAmber McMahon, Director of College and Young Adult Ministry shares her journey from rebellious teen years to discovering her calling in ministry. After overcoming personal struggles and spiritual awakening, she now fosters faith and community among young adults, expressing her passion for discipleship and connection in her new role at Christ Methodist Church.HOME | PLAN YOUR VISIT | BLOG | DIGITAL BULLETIN

Send us a textThis sermon explores Jesus' teachings from John 15, emphasizing love and friendship. It highlights the shift from servanthood to a deeper friendship with Christ and discusses the importance of building a gospel-centered community characterized by extravagant love and support for the marginalized. Discipleship Pastor Grant Caldwell addresses the loneliness epidemic and the trend of "de-churching," advocating for authentic relationships to reconnect individuals with the church. HOME | PLAN YOUR VISIT | BLOG | DIGITAL BULLETIN

Send us a textIn this sermon, Rev. Paul Lawler dives into John 15:8-17, unpacking the heart of Jesus' call to love extravagantly. Jesus invites us to bear fruit by abiding in His love—a sacrificial and selfless love. But what does it look like to truly love others, especially when it's hard? We explore the difference between peacekeeping and peacemaking, the role of obedience in love, and the power of extravagant love to transform relationships. How does sacrificial love fuel our prayer lives and friendships with Jesus? Plus, he shares how loving beyond our comfort zones aligns with God's will and is a powerful witness to the world. Tune in for a sermon on how to live out Christ's love in practical, life-changing ways.HOME | PLAN YOUR VISIT | BLOG | DIGITAL BULLETIN

Send us a textWe're through the first month of our congregational Luke reading plan, so we're checking in. In this new podcast, Discipleship Pastor Grant Caldwell explores where readers might have stumbled in the first month's reading and what they can expect in the next four weeks. Gospel of Luke Pt. 1 SummaryHOME | PLAN YOUR VISIT | BLOG | DIGITAL BULLETIN

Send us a textGuest teacher Maggie Ulmer: Besides traveling with Spirit & Truth as a preacher and teacher, Maggie is one-third of the Firebrand Podcast team and produces the Spirit & Truth podcast. Her passion is for equipping the leaders and people of the local church in the power of the Holy Spirit. She lives in Dayton, Ohio, with her husband, Rob, and three sons.Maggie's sermon focuses on insights from Luke 15. She emphasizes belonging, grace, and inclusivity in the church, urging outreach to those feeling estranged from the community.HOME | PLAN YOUR VISIT | BLOG | DIGITAL BULLETIN

Send us a textDr. Matt Reynolds is the President and Founder of Spirit & Truth, a back-to-the-basics ministry born out of a vision and passion to see local churches renewed in the power of the Holy Spirit and mobilized to make disciples of Jesus Christ. His sermon centers on the Spiritual and Truth Weekend at the campus, showcasing community, testimony, and spiritual growth. Key spiritual principles from the Israelites' crossing of the Jordan River are explored, focusing on consecration, trust, and obedience themes. Dr. Reynolds calls for reflection and deeper spiritual commitment, encouraging participants to embrace a transformative relationship with God through the Holy Spirit.HOME | PLAN YOUR VISIT | BLOG | DIGITAL BULLETIN

Send us a textIn this sermon, Executive Pastor Josh Landen explores the powerful story of King Jehoshaphat in 2 Chronicles 20, where faith, worship, and divine intervention collide. Faced with an overwhelming enemy force, Jehoshaphat's first instinct is not to fight but to seek God through prayer and fasting, declaring, “We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you.” As the people worship in faith, God moves miraculously—turning their enemies against each other. Pastor Josh highlights the transformative power of worship, reminding us that our greatest battles are won not by our efforts but through our devotion to God. We're encouraged to examine how we engage with worship in our lives. Listen to discover how our worship shapes our battles and aligns us with God's mighty deliverance.HOME | PLAN YOUR VISIT | BLOG | DIGITAL BULLETIN

Send us a textWhy does worship matter so much to the life of a believer and the Church? In this message, Paul Lawler dives into 2 Chronicles 20:15-23 to explore the transformative power of worship. Drawing on the story of King Jehoshaphat and Judah's victory through praise, Paul uncovers the deeper meaning of worship as a spiritual weapon, not just a ritual.Listen in as we discover that worship isn't just about singing; it's about magnifying Jesus Christ, aligning our hearts with God's will, and experiencing His presence in powerful ways that equip us for victory. Join us to explore how worship can be the antidote to fear, a path to peace, and the ultimate response to God's mercy and grace.HOME | PLAN YOUR VISIT | BLOG | DIGITAL BULLETIN

Send us a textHow do we truly define a gospel-centered community? Is it simply a group of people who meet on Sundays, or is it something far deeper? In this message, Pastor Paul Lawler takes us through Ephesians 2:1-9 to unpack the Gospel's true power and depth that shapes our community's very foundation.If you've ever wondered how to build a community that radiates God's love, or if you've ever struggled with understanding how God's grace works in your life, this message will challenge and inspire you. Paul delves into the radical truth of grace, showing us that the Gospel isn't just about self-improvement—it's about becoming new in Christ.Listen now as we explore what it means to live as a gospel-centered community and how God's love can change not just us but the world around us.HOME | PLAN YOUR VISIT | BLOG | DIGITAL BULLETIN

Send us a textWhat if the secret to navigating life's challenges isn't about figuring it out on our own but about being led by the ultimate guide? In this message, Missions Pastor Nathan Cook takes us into Luke 11:1-13 to explore how prayer and the Holy Spirit unlock God's kingdom work in our lives.Have you ever wondered why so many of us struggle to live out the fullness of God's power? Jesus shows us how prayer isn't just about asking for things but aligning ourselves with God's purpose. And what if we could tap into the Holy Spirit as the greatest gift we could receive—empowering us to live not by our own strength but by God's presence?From learning to pray with boldness to understanding God's deep generosity, this sermon highlights how we are invited into a deeper relationship with God through the Holy Spirit. Listen now to find out how you can walk in the power of the Spirit and bring God's love to a world in need.HOME | PLAN YOUR VISIT | BLOG | DIGITAL BULLETIN

Send us a textWhat would happen if you stopped trying to "make things happen" on your own and tapped into the divine power available to you? In this message, Paul Lawler explores the Holy Spirit's impact on the individual believer and the church as a whole.Why did Jesus say that the Father would give the Holy Spirit to those who ask? Could it be that many of us are missing out on God's power simply because we aren't asking enough? What does it really mean to be "filled with the Spirit," and why is it essential for living the abundant life Jesus promised? From stories in Scripture to modern-day challenges, Pastor Paul uncovers the difference the Holy Spirit can make when we allow Him to work in us—not just as a belief but as a daily, empowering reality.As we begin the new year, this sermon challenges us to shift from relying on our own strength to living in the fullness of the Holy Spirit's power. Listen now to discover how asking for the Holy Spirit's guidance and presence can change your year—and your life.

What happens when a young boy, lost for three days, speaks his first recorded words? Why does Jesus—who's only twelve—challenge the very people who've raised Him, declaring, “Did you not know that I must be in my father's house?”In this sermon, Pastor Josh Landen delves into a curious moment in Jesus' life during the Feast of Passover, when His wisdom astonishes the religious leaders and His parents with confusion and concern. What did this moment reveal about Jesus' identity and mission? More importantly, what invites us to reconsider our own identity in Christ?What does it mean to be “in our Father's house,” and how can this challenge our own understanding of where we belong and how we grow? Listeners are invited to reflect on the significance of spiritual disciplines and community, especially as we enter a new year.

As we embark on a journey through the Gospel of Luke as a congregation, you're invited to encounter Jesus in a fresh and profound way. This initiative aims to deepen our understanding of Jesus' life and ministry and to strengthen our faith as we explore Luke's unique perspective on the good news.Readers are encouraged to approach the text with an open heart and mind. Consider joining a study group or finding a reading partner to enrich your experience. Our website also provides resources to support your reading, including Discovery Bible Study guides and a form to submit questions.Learn More:The Gospel of Luke Reading PlanHow to Use Discovery Bible Study

In this sermon, Student Ministry Director William Merriman delves into the narrative of Jesus' birth, inviting listeners to see the story with fresh eyes. He highlights the contrast between Caesar Augustus' earthly authority and the humble entrance of Christ, emphasizing God's connection with our brokenness through the manger.He also examines the significance of Advent, the message to the marginalized through the shepherds, and the call to acknowledge our need for redemption. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their allegiances between earthly powers and God's Kingdom.

What would you do if you had the greatest news to share? Would you tell your closest friends or shout it from the rooftops? When God shared the greatest news in history, He didn't go to the rich, the powerful, or the elite—He went to the shepherds.In this message, Rev. Paul Lawler explores the powerful and surprising announcement of Jesus' birth to the outcasts of society. The shepherds, seen as unworthy by the world, are the first to hear of the Savior's arrival. Through their story, we see how the birth of Jesus transforms lives, offering hope even to the most marginalized.As the shepherds receive this message of joy and salvation, they are forever changed, becoming the first evangelists. Paul reminds us that no one is beyond God's love and grace. If God's good news could reach these outcasts, it can reach anyone.Listen now to discover how the message of the Savior's birth invites all of us—no matter our status or history—into the hope and joy of the gospel, just as the shepherds were first to experience.

This sermon examines the profound narrative of Mary's song, the Magnificat, as recorded in Luke 1:46-55. It highlights Mary's joyful response to the angel Gabriel's announcement and her visit to Elizabeth, where a significant connection is established. Pastor Josh Landen explores the theological implications of Mary's words, her deep knowledge of Scripture, and the biblical references that shape her proclamation. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own journeys of joy and hope, culminating in a call to embrace the light of Christ amidst darkness. 

As Mary reflects on God's mercy, might, and faithfulness in Luke 1:46-55, Rev. Paul challenges us to ask, What do we know about God's character, promises, and work in our lives?Mary's worship is rooted in her deep understanding of God's salvation, and her response is a model of true worship. Pastor Paul highlights the gospel truths Mary knew—about the Savior she carried, the redemption He would bring, and the fulfillment of God's promises to Israel. This knowledge led her to worship God wholeheartedly, and it invites us to do the same.Listen now to be inspired by Mary's faith and reflect on how our understanding of God's salvation leads us to worship and obedience. What do we know, and how does that propel us to magnify the Lord in our own lives?