Christ Community Church Message Podcast

In this message, Minister Mark Ashton explores what it means to love your immigrant neighbor in light of Pentecost, Scripture, and the global reality of immigration. From the birth of the church in Acts 2 to God's heart for foreigners in Leviticus 19, this teaching unpacks how followers of Jesus are called to treat immigrants and refugees—not with political bias, but with biblical love, dignity, and friendship. Through stories from CCC's ESL ministry, personal reflections, and clear biblical guidance, you'll be challenged to make space in your life for someone who may not look, sound, or live like you—but bears the same image of God.Whether you're curious about immigration, wrestling with how to respond as a Christian, or simply want to be part of something bigger, this message will inspire you to see and love your neighbors in a new light.

Have you ever had burning questions about God, the Bible, or faith—but weren't sure where to ask? In this message, Minister Mark Ashton answers real, unfiltered questions texted in by the Christ Community Church congregation. From navigating tough Bible passages to understanding how faith intersects with everyday life, Mark brings biblical clarity, pastoral wisdom, and a little humor to the topics that matter most.Whether you're wrestling with doubt, seeking direction, or just curious about what others are asking, this Q&A-style message is for you. No question is off-limits as we explore how God's truth meets real life.

In this message, Minister Jed Logue explores Isaiah 66 and challenges us to reframe how we view God, not as someone who can be contained by buildings, systems, or even our understanding, but as the Almighty Creator who longs for authentic worship from humble, contrite, and reverent hearts.This message concludes our journey through the book of Isaiah, a powerful series calling us to deeper trust, bigger faith, and a renewed vision of God's glory and justice.If you've ever wrestled with dry spiritual routines, felt distant from God, or wondered how to worship in a way that actually matters, this message is for you.

In this message, Minister Mark Ashton explores Isaiah 65 and God's vision for the Dream City—a glimpse of what life will look like when Jesus reigns in the Millennial Kingdom. But this isn't just a future hope. It's a present calling. What if we lived like Omaha could become a preview of that future?Through vivid teaching and personal stories, Minister Mark unpacks six dreams from Isaiah 65—longevity, food and housing security, fair wages, generational blessing, hearing from God, and lasting peace—and challenges each of us to see how our daily vocations can bring heaven to earth. Whether you're a nurse, builder, teacher, banker, or parent, your work has kingdom value.This message is a powerful reminder that we're not just waiting for God's kingdom—we're building it. Right here. Right now.

In this powerful message, Minister Mark Ashton explores Isaiah 61-62 and reveals the unwavering hope we can have for the future, even in the face of today's trials. Drawing from Admiral Stockdale's perspective of enduring suffering with faith and confronting the brutal facts of reality, Mark explains how this mindset is rooted in Scripture. Isaiah's prophecies, though written long ago, point to a future where God's light will dispel darkness, where nations will come together, and where ultimate restoration is promised. The future is so bright that, despite present struggles, we can have absolute certainty in God's victory.Mark takes us on a journey through Isaiah's vision of the Jesus Era, the Church Era, the Millennial Kingdom, and the New Heavens and New Earth, explaining how each of these phases points to a glorious future with Jesus at the center. If you're facing difficult circumstances, this message offers comfort, hope, and the assurance that God's plan will ultimately bring light and restoration.Join us as we dive into Isaiah's powerful prophecy and learn how to live with hope, even in the darkest times. The best is yet to come—are you ready for the bright future ahead?

In this message, Minister Alex Ehly explores the radical invitation of God in Isaiah 56—a divine declaration that His grace is not gated and His love is not limited. Through powerful storytelling and biblical insight, Alex challenges the “Members Only” mindset that often creeps into the Church and reminds us that God's family has always been meant for the outsider, the forgotten, and the excluded.Whether you've felt like you don't belong or wrestled with being the gatekeeper of grace, this sermon offers both conviction and comfort. Drawing from Isaiah's prophecy, Jesus' ministry, and the baptism of the Ethiopian eunuch in Acts 8, we see that God's heart has always been wide open. You are not too far. You are not too late. There is room for you.

Minister Mark Ashton explores Isaiah 49 and God's limitless vision for His people in this message. Drawing parallels between Jesus and Israel, Mark shows how Jesus fulfills God's mission to bring salvation to Israel and the entire world. Learn how God's dreams for your life are bigger than you imagine, why he never forgets you, and how Jesus' limitless love and sacrifice anchor our hope. Don't settle for small dreams when you serve a limitless God!Whether you're struggling with doubt, feeling forgotten, or wondering about your purpose, this message will encourage you to dream bigger, trust deeper, and remember you are engraved on the palms of His hands.

In this powerful Easter message, Minister Mark Ashton explores the resurrection of Jesus through the eyes of Bart, a first-century follower who witnessed it all. Blending biblical prophecy, personal confession, and a moving call to faith, this sermon unpacks how Jesus fulfilled Scripture and offers to pay the full debt of our sin, past, present, and future. With storytelling, reflection, and a symbolic “Paid In Full” moment, this Easter service invites you to stop striving and start trusting the One who said, “I want to pay for all of it.” Whether you've been following Jesus for decades or you're not sure what you believe, this message is a life-changing reminder: the tomb is empty, your debt is canceled, and the invitation is personal.

Minister Mark Ashton teaches from Isaiah 44–46 in this message, where God boldly declares: “I am God, and there is no other.” These chapters confront the illusion of man-made idols and call out the lie that all religions are the same. Minister Mark challenges the cultural drift of silence and tolerance by reminding us of God's utter uniqueness, unmatched power, and prophetic accuracy—culminating in the historical, miraculous, and singular person of Jesus. You'll laugh at Isaiah's biting sarcasm, reflect on the idols of our day, and leave with a renewed sense of why proclaiming the truth—gently and boldly—is the most loving thing we can do. Eternity is at stake, and we're called to point people to the One who saves.

When life feels impossible—when you're trapped, overwhelmed, or walking through fire—God promises to make a way. In this powerful message, Minister Mark Ashton explores Isaiah 43, showing how God meets us in life's most desperate moments. Just as He parted the Red Sea, stopped the Jordan River, and stood in the fiery furnace, He is with you through the waters and fire of your life.Whether you're facing family struggles, financial hardship, a scary diagnosis, or spiritual burnout, God knows your name, sees your pain, and has a plan to rescue you. This sermon will encourage you to trust God's presence and power, even when the odds feel stacked against you. Because when things seem impossible—God makes a way.

Missions have always been at the heart of Christ Community Church and the Christian & Missionary Alliance. With over 700 international workers in 70+ countries, we are committed to bringing the hope of Jesus to those with little or no access to the gospel. In this powerful message, we explore what it means to do missions well—how we can share our faith effectively, avoid common pitfalls, and truly impact the world for Christ.Join us as we uncover God's heart for the nations and discover how you can be part of this global movement. Whether you're passionate about missions, seeking purpose, or wondering how to share Jesus with those around you, this message will challenge and inspire you.

In this message, Minister Mark Ashton explores Isaiah 40, a pivotal chapter of the Bible that shifts from judgment to restoration. Discover how God's boundless strength renews the weary, offering comfort and hope in life's hardest moments. If you're feeling tired—physically, emotionally, or spiritually—this message is for you. Learn how to trade exhaustion for divine strength, and find lasting renewal in Christ.

In this message, Minister Mark Ashton explores how Isaiah's prophecies intersect with end-times theology, offering a framework to understand Isaiah's visions of judgment, hope, and the future reign of Christ. Through prophetic foreshadowing, Isaiah speaks to both his time and ours—revealing God's promises in the face of uncertainty. From the Messiah's first coming to the Millennial Kingdom and the New Heavens and New Earth, discover how Isaiah's words provide an anchor of hope in our turbulent world.

In this message, Minister Mark Ashton explores how God is always at work—both in the obvious and the hidden. Looking at Isaiah 7 and 9, we see how God's promises to King Ahaz foreshadow the ultimate fulfillment in Jesus, the Hidden King. Just as Isaiah spoke truth to power and revealed God's unseen hand in history, we are reminded that God is moving in ways we often don't perceive.

In this message, Jed Logue explores the parable of the vineyard in Isaiah 5 and 27, connecting it with Jesus' teachings in Matthew 21 and John 15. Just as a vineyard requires careful cultivation to bear good fruit, God has invested in His people with love, provision, and purpose. But what happens when His vineyard produces bad fruit? Discover how this ancient passage speaks to justice, righteousness, and the consequences of turning away from God's design.

In this message, guest speaker Ann Voskamp shares an inspiring teaching on trusting God when we don't know what to do. Looking at the story of King Jehoshaphat in 2 Chronicles 20, Ann unpacks how turning our eyes to God in times of uncertainty leads to peace, strength, and divine direction. Join us for this powerful Thrive Weekend Sunday message and be encouraged to fix your focus on the One who holds the future.

In this message, Minister Mark Ashton explores the profound vision of God's glory and holiness in Isaiah 6. As we launch our new series on the book of Isaiah, we dive into the prophet's transformative encounter with God and the call to a life of repentance, hope, and trust in the coming Messiah. Isaiah's vision reveals God's sovereignty, His holiness, and the promise of redemption—a central theme throughout this powerful book.Throughout the series, we'll unpack the judgment and hope Isaiah proclaims, focusing on how it points to Jesus. Join us for this 16-week journey as we explore the richness of one of the most quoted books in the New Testament and discover how its timeless message applies today.

Worship isn't just a practice—it's a powerful rhythm that aligns us with God's presence, transforms our mindset, and brings deep joy and peace. In this final message of the Soul Rhythms series, Minister Mark Ashton explores how worship changes our lives by cultivating gratitude, shifting our perspective, and drawing us closer to God.We live in a world filled with distractions—constant news, endless screen time, and increasing isolation—but worship re-centers us on what truly matters. Discover the biblical and scientific insights into how gratitude and worship can rewire your brain, reduce anxiety, and bring lasting joy.Don't miss this message as we uncover why worship is essential and how it can transform your everyday life!

Forgiveness isn't just a moral suggestion—it's a necessity for spiritual and emotional health. In this message, Minister Mark Ashton explores the power of forgiveness, its impact on our minds and bodies, and Jesus' radical teaching on the subject. When we hold on to bitterness, it consumes us from the inside out. But when we forgive, we open the door to healing, freedom, and transformation.Join us as we unpack the science behind forgiveness, the biblical mandate to forgive, and practical ways to release resentment and walk in the grace God offers us.

What if your life was free from guilt, bitterness, and anxiety? What if you lived with resilience, hope, and peace no matter the challenges? In Week 3 of the Soul Rhythms series, we explore the transformative power of confession.Pastor Mark challenges us to see confession not just as admitting wrongdoing but as agreeing with God—agreeing about who Jesus is and recognizing our need for His forgiveness. Through practical exercises, biblical truths, and even brain science, this message dives deep into the freedom that comes when we bring our struggles into the light.Join us as we unpack Romans 10:9, Psalm 32, and 1 John 1:9 to discover how confession realigns our hearts with God, releases us from shame, and empowers us to live clean, joyful lives.Whether you're new to faith or a seasoned believer, this message will inspire you to embrace confession as a life-giving practice that draws you closer to Jesus.Keywords:confession, soul rhythms, CCC Omaha, forgiveness, confession in the Bible, Psalm 32, Romans 10:9, 1 John 1:9, spiritual formation, spiritual rhythms, confession and repentance, freedom in Christ, forgiveness of sins, biblical confession, brain science and confession, healing through confession, Jesus is Lord, forgiveness through Jesus, how to confess sins, Omaha church sermons, hope and peace in Christ

In this week's Soul Rhythms message, "Examine," Minister Mark teaches about the importance of reflection in our spiritual lives. Inspired by Genesis 3, he unpacks two key questions that God asks of Adam: "Where are you?" and "Who told you?" Using these questions, Mark explains how self-examination can draw us closer to God, help us redefine our priorities, and cultivate a deeper relationship with him.Discover the six phases of the Soul Rhythm exercise—Breathe, Examine, Confess, Trust, Forgive, Worship—and see how intentional reflection helps shape your spiritual journey. Through biblical insights, brain science, and practical application, this message equips you to examine your life and align it with God's purpose.

Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck in unhealthy rhythms, or spiritually "gunked up"? Start the new year with us as Minister Mark dives into the first week of Soul Rhythms—a series designed to help you reconnect with God, rewire your mind, and restore your soul. This week's message, Breathe, introduces the power of intentional breathing and its spiritual significance as a way to experience God's presence and peace.Explore how to transition from anxiety to peace, hurry to patience, and disconnection to awareness of the Holy Spirit. Learn a simple 20-minute daily practice of prayer, journaling, and breathing to renew your body, mind, and spirit.

What does it mean to follow Jesus as He truly is—not as we shape Him to fit our plans? Minister Alex Ehly explores Matthew 16:13-26 in this message, where Peter confesses Jesus as the Messiah but wrestles with surrendering fully to God's plan. Using a 3D printer as a metaphor, we examine how we can fall into the trap of "sculpting" a Savior that aligns with our preferences instead of surrendering to the real Jesus.Jesus' call to “deny yourself, take up your cross, and follow me” challenges us to recalibrate our spiritual lives daily. Are you surrendering to Christ or shaping a version of Him that surrenders to you?

How did the world go from the chaos of exile to the light of Christ? In this sermon, Minister Mark Ashton dives into the last words of the Old Testament, the silent years between the testaments, and the arrival of Jesus—the ultimate fulfillment of history. Discover how God orchestrated nations, languages, roads, and timing to bring the Prince of Peace at the perfect moment.

Discover how God's light not only drove out darkness at the dawn of time but continues to bring clarity, hope, and order to our broken world through Jesus—the true Light of all mankind. John, the disciple who walked with Jesus, reminds us that the Word was there from the beginning, creating life and shining in the darkness, which cannot overcome it.Whether you are seeking peace in a chaotic season or longing for a glimpse of God's presence, this sermon reveals how believing in Jesus as the Light leads us out of darkness and into hope.

This week, we conclude our epic sermon series The Chronicles of Judah by diving into the reign of Zedekiah, Judah's last king. Discover the sobering story of a nation's decline from excellence to exile and the incredible hope God gives for restoration. Through Zedekiah's tragic choices, we're reminded of the longing for a true King, High Priest, and Temple—a longing fulfilled in Jesus Christ.Explore how Jesus transforms our understanding of kingship, priesthood, and the Temple, offering hope for every generation. This is more than history—it's a call to pass the torch of faith to the next generation.

This week in our Chronicles of Judah series, we dive into 2 Chronicles 35 to explore the second half of King Josiah's extraordinary legacy. King Josiah reinstated the Passover celebration, a pivotal event in Israel's history, showcasing his devotion to God and commitment to leading his people back to their true identity. From meticulous preparations to outrageous generosity, Josiah led a festival that honored God with unparalleled worship and unity.In this message, we'll see how Josiah's dedication to God's Word shaped his reign and inspired an entire nation, even amidst tragedy. Join us as we uncover powerful lessons about faith, worship, and leaving a legacy that honors God.

This week, we explore 2 Kings 23:25, where Josiah is praised as a king who wholeheartedly followed the Lord like no other. Learn how his fiery passion for God transformed his generation and serves as a powerful example for us today.

Explore the incredible story of King Manasseh in 2 Chronicles 33:1-20, a tale of rebellion, idolatry, and God's relentless grace. This week in The Chronicles of Judah, we'll uncover Manasseh's shocking U-turn from the darkest sins to a redeemed life.

Join us for Week 8 of our series, The Chronicles of Judah, as we dive into the life of King Hezekiah. Through pivotal moments in Hezekiah's story, we see how one decision can flip the momentum of an entire nation and how a single act of faith can overcome fear. Even in the face of brutal threats from Sennacherib, the King of Assyria, Hezekiah inspires his people to trust God, preparing them both physically and spiritually for battle. But when pride takes center stage, Hezekiah's triumph fades, reminding us that while faith builds momentum, pride can destroy it.

In Week 7 of The Chronicles of Judah, we explore the life and reforms of King Hezekiah, a ruler who reversed generational sin and restored worship in Judah. Hezekiah's legacy powerfully reminds us how we can choose a new path, no matter our past. This week, as we approach election season, we also reflect on the enduring reign of God, above all earthly powers. Join us as we uncover timeless lessons from 2 Chronicles 29-31.

This week, we dive into the story of King Ahaz and the tragic consequences of idolatry that plagued Judah. Exploring 2 Chronicles 28, we uncover the shocking practices of Canaanite religions that Ahaz embraced, including child sacrifice to Molech, worship of Baal, and the influence of Asherah. Pastor Mark warns that although ancient idols have vanished, their influence persists in today's culture, taking on new forms. Join us as we confront these dark themes, seeking God's guidance in recognizing and resisting spiritual corruption. Viewer discretion is advised due to sensitive content.

Join us for Missions Sunday as we explore how God is working through Christ Community Church's partnerships with Green City! Hear powerful stories of faith, prayer, and transformation from International Workers Eric and Krisy, who remind us that the fields are ripe for harvest. Now is the time to participate in God's global mission. Together, we can make an eternal impact!

Join us as we dive into the gripping history of 2 Chronicles 21-24 in the fifth week of The Chronicles of Judah series. This week, we're unpacking the dramatic story of King Jehoram, his tragic son Ahaziah, the evil Queen Athaliah, and the boy king Joash. You'll discover the impact of Jehosheba and Jehoiada, the power couple who saved the line of David and helped restore true worship in Judah. Plus, we'll explore how parenting, grandparenting, and investing in the next generation can shape a legacy of faith. 

Does Advancing Science Refute or Prove Genesis? Our understanding of science is always evolving. How do recent scientific discoveries relate to the ability of Genesis 1 to accurately describe the physical details of creation?

God Is... Bigger than We Know: Some holy books declare that God is transcendent (existing and operating beyond the cosmic spacetime dimensions) but aloof and distant from his creation. Others declare that God is immanent (existing and operating everywhere within the universe) but limited to the universe. The Bible alone declares that God is simultaneously transcendent and immanent. 

Join us for week four of our sermon series, The Chronicles of Judah, where we dive deep into the life and reign of King Jehoshaphat. In this message, we explore Jehoshaphat's devotion to God, his successes, and the compromises that led to long-lasting consequences for the kingdom of Judah. Learn about his alliance with the infamous King Ahab, the impact of bad influences, and the importance of standing firm in truth, just like the prophet Micaiah.

This week, we continue our series "The Chronicles of Judah" with the story of King Asa. Join us as we explore Asa's reign, his devotion to God, and the key moment in his 15th year when he went "ALL-IN" for the Lord. Asa's reign, marked by peace, fortified cities, and spiritual commitment, presents powerful lessons on lordship and full devotion. From his early successes to his later struggles, Asa's story reminds us of the importance of staying fully committed to God throughout our lives.

In this week's message, Minister Mark Ashton teaches about King Abijah's life and the ongoing conflict between the kingdoms of Judah and Israel. Discover the surprising twists and turns of this biblical tale, filled with political intrigue, military battles, and spiritual insights.

Welcome to the first week of our new sermon series, "The Chronicles of Judah." We're diving into the rich and dramatic history of Judah from 2 Chronicles 10-36. This series explores the rise and fall of a nation filled with political intrigue, powerful leaders, and lessons on leadership that are still relevant today. This week, we begin with Rehoboam, a king whose poor choices led to the division of the kingdom. Discover the importance of choosing your influencers wisely and learn from the triumphs and failures of Judah's kings. Don't miss the journey through this often-overlooked book of the Bible!Join us as we uncover the lessons from Judah's history and how they point us to Jesus, the ultimate King of Kings.

Join us for the final week of our "Hearing God" series as we explore hearing God's voice through worship. We'll dive into how worship music can help us connect deeply with God and how worship is more than singing—it's about our posture, priorities, and letting God purify our hearts. Jed Logue will lead is in three Lectio Divina experiences centered on Psalm 100 to help tune your heart to God's rhythm.

In the fourth week of our "Hearing God" sermon series, Alex Ehly delivers the powerful message that “God Speaks Through Circumstances.” God uses challenging moments to shape our character and faith. In life's toughest times, God isn't silent—He's molding us to depend on Him more deeply. Dive into this powerful message to discover how God speaks to us in our victories and struggles.

This week, we explore how to cut through the noise of our chaotic world to hear God's pure and life-giving voice. In this third installment of the five-week series, we'll reflect on the challenges we've addressed so far—eliminating distractions, renewing our minds, and aligning with God's truth. Now, Minister Mark Ashton will dive deeper into recognizing the "still small voice" of God, as we learn from the story of Elijah in 1 Kings 19. Discover how God speaks in surprising and unexpected ways, leading us on the dynamic, untamed faith journey. Don't miss this opportunity to deepen your relationship with God and understand His will for your life.

Week two of our "Hearing God" message series focuses on how to hear God through a transformed mind. Discover practical steps to renew your mind, align your thoughts with God's will, and cultivate a Christ-centered mindset. Learn how the Bible and prayer can reshape your thinking, helping you discern God's voice and navigate life with clarity and wisdom. Whether seeking to deepen your spiritual journey or simply curious about the connection between faith and the mind, this message offers insights that will transform your understanding of God's guidance.

God is always speaking and never silent. His voice is evident through creation, the prophets, the Bible, and ultimately through Jesus. But how do we hear Him amidst the noise? Join us for a new five-week sermon series, "Hearing God," where we explore how to clear a path to hear God's voice daily.In this first part, we dive into Proverbs 16 to understand the barriers that block us from hearing God. From distractions and sin to our own misconceptions of righteousness, we uncover the "irritations of interference" and learn how to overcome them.Don't miss out on practical insights and powerful truths that will transform your spiritual life. Whether you're struggling to discern God's voice or seeking to deepen your relationship with Him, this series is for you.

Welcome to Christ Community Church's Q&A Sunday! This week, Minister Mark takes the stage to answer your most pressing questions about faith, spirituality, science, and everyday life. Join us for an insightful and interactive session where no question is too big or too small.