Church at Viera Messages

Sometimes we see God move, but we still don't believe. In this message, we explore the powerful miracle of Jesus healing a man born blind (John 9) — the sixth sign in the Gospel of John and a clear revelation of who Jesus is: the Messiah, the Light of the World.But more than the miracle, the real focus is our response. Do we move closer to Jesus, or do pride, fear, or confusion keep us from truly seeing Him? Through four unique reactions to this miracle — from the neighbors, the Pharisees, the parents, and the blind man himself — we're challenged to examine our own hearts.Are you curious but confused? Religious but resistant? Fearful but silent? Or are you growing in boldness, seeing Jesus clearly, and worshiping Him as Lord?Join us as we discover what it really means to see and believe.

In this episode, Pastor Mark, Jay Austin and Brandon Rieb unpack the message “Compassionate Conviction” from John 8:1–11. Together, they explore how Jesus responded to a tense, public moment - not with condemnation, but with grace and truth. From writing in the dirt to disarming a crowd with one powerful sentence, Jesus models how to lead with both conviction and compassion. This conversation dives into modern-day "stones" we throw - judgment, pride, unforgiveness - and challenges us to drop them in favor of mercy that doesn't excuse sin, but lovingly calls people higher.Website: www.churchatviera.comEmail: sharinggrace@churchatviera.com

This week's message focused on the powerful example of Compassionate Conviction found in John 8:1-11, where Jesus responds to the woman caught in adultery. The central theme was how to balance truth and grace when responding to sin — both in others and ourselves.The message highlighted how Jesus demonstrated both justice and mercy. Instead of condemning the woman, He challenged her accusers to reflect on their own sin, famously saying, “Let him who is without sin cast the first stone.” Jesus neither excused the sin nor shamed the sinner. Instead, He lovingly told her, “Neither do I condemn you. Go now and leave your life of sin.”Key takeaways included:-Drop the “rocks” of self-righteousness and judgment.-Recognize that compassion doesn't mean condoning sin, but offering grace and truth together.-Extend acceptance without approval of sinful choices, just as Jesus does with us.-Encourage repentance not out of guilt, but out of love for Christ and the hope He offers.

In this episode, Jay, Brandon and Wendell explore the tension between our urgency and God's perfect timing, based on Wendell's powerful message from John 7. Together, they unpack what it means to trust God's timing in a world obsessed with speed, success, and control. From selling homes during transitions to waiting in seasons of uncertainty, they share personal stories and biblical truths that reveal how God is always faithful - even when He seems slow. The team also wrestles with questions about obedience, sovereignty, and how Jesus modeled trust even in rejection. If you've ever struggled to wait on God, this conversation will encourage you to stay anchored in His timing and leadership.Website: www.churchatviera.comEmail: sharinggrace@churchatviera.com

In this powerful message, we explore how Jesus navigated opposition, unbelief—even from His own family—and constant threats to His life, all while remaining fully surrendered to the perfect timing of God. Though many sought to seize Him, no one could lay a hand on Him—because His hour had not yet come.Through John 7, we are reminded that God's timing is never rushed, never delayed, and always trustworthy. Even when pressure mounts or circumstances don't make sense, we are called to follow Jesus' example and trust His timing in all things.

In this episode, Brandon is joined by Lead Pastor Mark Ragsdale and Worship Pastor Jonmark as they dive into the powerful story of Jesus feeding the 5,000 from John 6. They reflect on how each disciple responded to the overwhelming need, and what it reveals about our own approach to problems - whether we avoid them, try to solve them ourselves, or trust God with what little we have. The conversation explores how Jesus transforms small offerings into miracles, why He tests our faith, and what it means to truly see Him as the Bread of Life. You'll also hear some fun lunchbox nostalgia - and a powerful reminder that even the "leftovers" in our lives have purpose in God's hands. Don't miss this rich and practical conversation about faith, trust, and provision.Website: www.churchatviera.comEmail: sharinggrace@churchatviera.com

In this powerful Sunday message from John 6, we explore the miraculous feeding of the 5,000 and the deeper lessons Jesus teaches us through it. When faced with overwhelming problems, we often turn to our own solutions—avoiding them, throwing money at them, or relying on others. But Jesus shows us a better way: bring the problem to Him.Through four key responses—from the disciples, Philip, Andrew, and Jesus—we learn how to:1. Trust Jesus with the little we have,2. Trust Him with the surplus,3. Trust Him through life's storms,4. And feed our faith daily on Him, the Bread of Life.No matter the challenge, Jesus doesn't waste anything in our lives and invites us to rely on Him every single day—especially the last day.

In this episode, we're diving deep into John 5 - a story of hope, mercy, and an encounter that changed everything. Today, Jay, Natalie and Brandon have a candid conversation about how Jesus met a man overlooked and misjudged for 38 years at the pool of Bethesda - literally the “House of Mercy.”We'll explore how Jesus' question, “Do you want to be healed?”, speaks to our spiritual and emotional lives today. You'll hear how this story of healing challenges us to shift our gaze from empty pools of false hope to the Living Water that's right in front of us.This episode is full of personal stories, honest reflections, and a beautiful reminder that Jesus is not only our Healer but the One who brings abundant life, here and now.Website: www.churchatviera.comEmail: sharinggrace@churchatviera.com

In this powerful message from John 5, Pastor Jay Austin challenges us to reflect on how we perceive Jesus by asking: “Have you ever been wrong about someone's identity?” Focusing on the story of the man healed at the Pool of Bethesda, Pastor Jay unpacks the compassion, authority, and divine identity of Jesus.Through the lens of this miraculous healing, we are reminded that Jesus sees and knows our struggles—our pain, addictions, disappointments, and sin—not with condemnation, but with deep compassion. As Jesus calls the man to rise and walk, Pastor Jay emphasizes that true healing comes not from tradition or performance, but from trusting in Jesus' mercy and power.The message concludes by answering the question, “Who is this man?”—revealing Jesus as the Healer, the Lord over the law, the Giver of life, and the Savior who offers eternal hope. We are invited to respond in faith: to rise from our paralysis, walk in obedience, and follow the way of Jesus with renewed purpose and holiness.

In this powerful and heartfelt episode, Brandon welcomes Jay Austin (Discipleship Pastor), AnneMarie Gustke (Executive Director of Agape Women's Center), and Stacy Vollenwieder (CAV Staff Member) for an honest conversation inspired by John 4—the story of Jesus' encounter with the Samaritan woman at the well.Together, they explore what it means to be spiritually “thirsty” and how Jesus offers “living water” to those who feel unseen, stuck, or burdened by their past. Through real-life stories from AnneMarie and Stacy's frontline ministries, the team discusses God's heart for the marginalized, the power of grace and truth, and how authentic encounters with Christ can lead to healing, transformation, and new life.Whether you're feeling weary or just curious about how faith meets real-world struggles, this episode is a moving reminder that no one is beyond the reach of God's love.Website: www.churchatviera.comEmail: sharinggrace@churchatviera.com

In this episode of our It's Personal series through the Gospel of John, we're joined by Pastor Mark, our lead pastor, Jay Austin and Harmony Charters, for a powerful conversation on John 3:22-30 titled “Confident Humility.” Together, we unpack the struggle of comparison—especially in the age of social media—and how it quietly robs us of joy and clarity in our purpose.We explore what it means to live like John the Baptist, who boldly declared, “I am not the Christ,” and modeled a life pointing others to Jesus, not himself. From the imagery of a wedding to the challenge of letting Christ increase while we decrease, we dive into what it means to live with true humility without losing confidence.You'll hear personal reflections, real-life examples, and honest dialogue about pride, identity, and what it really looks like to find freedom by embracing our God-given roles. Whether you're wrestling with comparison or seeking deeper purpose, this episode offers encouragement to step out of the spotlight and into joyful surrender.Website: www.churchatviera.comEmail: sharinggrace@churchatviera.com

In this message, we explore John 3: 1–36 and learn from the example of John the Baptist. In a world driven by ego and competition, John models a better way: humility rooted in knowing our identity and purpose in God's kingdom. Through this passage, we examine three kinds of people during a movement of God—nitpickers, competitors, and pointers—and discover how true joy and effectiveness come when we stop comparing and start pointing others to Jesus. Find out how confident humility sets us free from pride, fuels gratitude, and brings joy as we live not for our glory, but for Christ's.

In this message, we explore John 3: 1–36 and learn from the example of John the Baptist. In a world driven by ego and competition, John models a better way: humility rooted in knowing our identity and purpose in God's kingdom. Through this passage, we examine three kinds of people during a movement of God—nitpickers, competitors, and pointers—and discover how true joy and effectiveness come when we stop comparing and start pointing others to Jesus. Find out how confident humility sets us free from pride, fuels gratitude, and brings joy as we live not for our glory, but for Christ's.

In this episode, Pastor Mark and Discipleship Pastor Jay Austin join the conversation to unpack the powerful story of Jesus' first miracle at the wedding in Cana, as found in John 2. With humor and insight—including tales of wedding mishaps and ministry moments—they explore what it means when the “wine runs out” in our own lives. What do we turn to when we're empty? Why does God sometimes wait to act? And how can simple obedience lead to extraordinary transformation?Together, the team reflects on themes of trust, divine timing, radical obedience, and Jesus' ability to repurpose the ordinary for sacred purpose. Most importantly, they highlight how Jesus doesn't just fix situations—He transforms them.Whether you're navigating a dry season, wrestling with delayed answers, or simply looking for fresh encouragement in your faith, this episode is an invitation to believe again in the transforming power of Jesus.Website: www.churchatviera.comEmail: sharinggrace@churchatviera.com

In this episode, Pastor Mark and Discipleship Pastor Jay Austin join the conversation to unpack the powerful story of Jesus' first miracle at the wedding in Cana, as found in John 2. With humor and insight—including tales of wedding mishaps and ministry moments—they explore what it means when the “wine runs out” in our own lives. What do we turn to when we're empty? Why does God sometimes wait to act? And how can simple obedience lead to extraordinary transformation?Together, the team reflects on themes of trust, divine timing, radical obedience, and Jesus' ability to repurpose the ordinary for sacred purpose. Most importantly, they highlight how Jesus doesn't just fix situations—He transforms them.Whether you're navigating a dry season, wrestling with delayed answers, or simply looking for fresh encouragement in your faith, this episode is an invitation to believe again in the transforming power of Jesus.Website: www.churchatviera.comEmail: sharinggrace@churchatviera.com

In this powerful message, we explore Jesus' first miracle at the wedding in Cana—turning water into wine—and discover what it reveals about His glory, His power, and His purpose. When the wine runs out, it's more than a party problem—it's a picture of the emptiness we all face without Jesus. But the good news? Jesus always saves the best for last.Through this first sign, we see that:⭐️ Jesus is God—humble, joyful, and fully in control.⭐️ Jesus has power—He can create, redeem, and restore what's been lost.⭐️ Jesus has a purpose—to suffer in our place so that we could celebrate with Him forever.As we connect this moment to the Last Supper and the ultimate wedding banquet in Revelation, we are reminded that what Jesus began in Cana points us to the cross and ends in eternal joy.Best advice from this message:⭐️ Jesus when your wine runs out.⭐️ Do whatever He tells you.⭐️ Begin with the end in mind.

In this powerful message, we explore Jesus' first miracle at the wedding in Cana—turning water into wine—and discover what it reveals about His glory, His power, and His purpose. When the wine runs out, it's more than a party problem—it's a picture of the emptiness we all face without Jesus. But the good news? Jesus always saves the best for last.Through this first sign, we see that:⭐️ Jesus is God—humble, joyful, and fully in control.⭐️ Jesus has power—He can create, redeem, and restore what's been lost.⭐️ Jesus has a purpose—to suffer in our place so that we could celebrate with Him forever.As we connect this moment to the Last Supper and the ultimate wedding banquet in Revelation, we are reminded that what Jesus began in Cana points us to the cross and ends in eternal joy.Best advice from this message:⭐️ Jesus when your wine runs out.⭐️ Do whatever He tells you.⭐️ Begin with the end in mind.

In this episode of The Sharing Grace Podcast, Pastors John Leathers, Jay Austin and Brandon Rieb dive into the powerful encounters of John 1, where lives were transformed by a personal meeting with Jesus. From the bold humility of John the Baptist to the quiet faithfulness of Philip, they explore what it truly means to follow Christ and share Him with others—especially when it's difficult. Join the conversation as they reflect on life-changing introductions, the challenges of sharing faith with family, and the lasting impact of simple obedience.Website: www.churchatviera.comEmail: sharinggrace@churchatviera.com

In this episode of The Sharing Grace Podcast, Pastors John Leathers, Jay Austin and Brandon Rieb dive into the powerful encounters of John 1, where lives were transformed by a personal meeting with Jesus. From the bold humility of John the Baptist to the quiet faithfulness of Philip, they explore what it truly means to follow Christ and share Him with others—especially when it's difficult. Join the conversation as they reflect on life-changing introductions, the challenges of sharing faith with family, and the lasting impact of simple obedience.Website: www.churchatviera.comEmail: sharinggrace@churchatviera.com

This sermon message focuses on John 1 and introduces Jesus as the eternal Word who became flesh to reveal God to humanity. Jesus is described as full of grace and truth, the visible image of the invisible God. John the Baptist identifies Jesus as the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world, pointing to His mission of redemption. The passage also highlights the early calling of Jesus' disciples, showing how individuals were drawn to Him through personal encounters and testimonies. Their responses—“Come and see,” “Follow me,” and declarations of Jesus as the Son of God—emphasize the invitation to know, trust, and follow Christ. Ultimately, Jesus promises that those who follow Him will witness even greater revelations of His glory and divine nature.

This sermon message focuses on John 1 and introduces Jesus as the eternal Word who became flesh to reveal God to humanity. Jesus is described as full of grace and truth, the visible image of the invisible God. John the Baptist identifies Jesus as the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world, pointing to His mission of redemption. The passage also highlights the early calling of Jesus' disciples, showing how individuals were drawn to Him through personal encounters and testimonies. Their responses—“Come and see,” “Follow me,” and declarations of Jesus as the Son of God—emphasize the invitation to know, trust, and follow Christ. Ultimately, Jesus promises that those who follow Him will witness even greater revelations of His glory and divine nature.

In this episode, we explore the story of Thomas from John 20 and discover that doubt isn't the end of faith—it might be the beginning of something deeper.Host Jay Austin sits down with Pastor Mark Ragsdale and Dr. Nathan Allison for an honest, hope-filled conversation about faith, questions, and how Jesus meets us in our moments of uncertainty. From personal stories to real-life reflections, this episode reminds us that God isn't afraid of our doubts—He meets us right in the middle of them.

In this episode, we explore the story of Thomas from John 20 and discover that doubt isn't the end of faith—it might be the beginning of something deeper.Host Jay Austin sits down with Pastor Mark Ragsdale and Dr. Nathan Allison for an honest, hope-filled conversation about faith, questions, and how Jesus meets us in our moments of uncertainty. From personal stories to real-life reflections, this episode reminds us that God isn't afraid of our doubts—He meets us right in the middle of them.

In this message, we explore the journey of Thomas—often labeled "Doubting Thomas"—and discover that doubt isn't the enemy of faith but can be a path to deeper belief. Through John 20:24-28 and supporting passages, we're reminded that questions are part of authentic faith, and Jesus meets us in our doubt with peace and truth. Don't let your doubt define you—let it refine you. Watch as we dive into the evidence, listen to eyewitnesses, and make a bold declaration: “My Lord and my God!”

In this message, we explore the journey of Thomas—often labeled "Doubting Thomas"—and discover that doubt isn't the enemy of faith but can be a path to deeper belief. Through John 20:24-28 and supporting passages, we're reminded that questions are part of authentic faith, and Jesus meets us in our doubt with peace and truth. Don't let your doubt define you—let it refine you. Watch as we dive into the evidence, listen to eyewitnesses, and make a bold declaration: “My Lord and my God!”

When you look closely into the life of Jesus, you see that in his encounters with people, he was deeply personal. On his way to the cross (John 19), Jesus encountered three groups of people who either rejected him, were indifferent towards him, or remained close to him in their intense sorrow. In this episode, the team discusses how encounters with Jesus summons everyone to respond to the Son of God. Encounters with Jesus have the potential to radically transform your life. Website: www.churchatviera.comEmail: sharinggrace@churchatviera.com

When you look closely into the life of Jesus, you see that in his encounters with people, he was deeply personal. On his way to the cross (John 19), Jesus encountered three groups of people who either rejected him, were indifferent towards him, or remained close to him in their intense sorrow. In this episode, the team discusses how encounters with Jesus summons everyone to respond to the Son of God. Encounters with Jesus have the potential to radically transform your life. Website: www.churchatviera.comEmail: sharinggrace@churchatviera.com

This message, based on John 19:28, explores the final moments of Jesus' life and the deeply personal nature of the crucifixion. Far from being just a historical event, the cross invites a response from every heart. Through the lens of four key encounters—Pilate's rejection, the soldiers' indifference, the sorrow of the women and John, and the boldness of Joseph and Nicodemus—we see how different people responded to Jesus in His suffering. The message challenges us to examine our own response to Christ today, reminding us that neutrality or indifference is a response in itself. Rooted in the Gospel—the fulfillment of God's promises in Jesus—it calls us to personally engage with the Savior who thirsted for our redemption.

This message, based on John 19:28, explores the final moments of Jesus' life and the deeply personal nature of the crucifixion. Far from being just a historical event, the cross invites a response from every heart. Through the lens of four key encounters—Pilate's rejection, the soldiers' indifference, the sorrow of the women and John, and the boldness of Joseph and Nicodemus—we see how different people responded to Jesus in His suffering. The message challenges us to examine our own response to Christ today, reminding us that neutrality or indifference is a response in itself. Rooted in the Gospel—the fulfillment of God's promises in Jesus—it calls us to personally engage with the Savior who thirsted for our redemption.

While Jesus was being betrayed and unfairly arrested, he boldly asked, "shall I not drink the cup that the Father has given me?" (John 18:11) Life often brings unfair suffering, but like Jesus, we can handle our struggles with prayer, obedience, and trust. Jesus shows us how to face unfair suffering with integrity and surrender to God's will. In this episode, Pastor Mark and the team candidly share how they have navigated the difficulties of life. Website: www.churchatviera.comEmail: sharinggrace@churchatviera.com

While Jesus was being betrayed and unfairly arrested, he boldly asked, "shall I not drink the cup that the Father has given me?" (John 18:11) Life often brings unfair suffering, but like Jesus, we can handle our struggles with prayer, obedience, and trust. Jesus shows us how to face unfair suffering with integrity and surrender to God's will. In this episode, Pastor Mark and the team candidly share how they have navigated the difficulties of life. Website: www.churchatviera.comEmail: sharinggrace@churchatviera.com

The Apostle Paul boldly stated in 1 Corinthians 11:1, "Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ." Followers of Jesus are both called to disciple and be discipled. Discipleship is about imitation—"being covered in the dust of our Rabbi, Jesus." We are called to follow Him closely, learn from His ways, and reflect His character in all aspects of life. In this episode, the team has candid dialogue about the importance of mentorship and discipleship. Website: www.churchatviera.comEmail: sharinggrace@churchatviera.com

The Apostle Paul boldly stated in 1 Corinthians 11:1, "Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ." Followers of Jesus are both called to disciple and be discipled. Discipleship is about imitation—"being covered in the dust of our Rabbi, Jesus." We are called to follow Him closely, learn from His ways, and reflect His character in all aspects of life. In this episode, the team has candid dialogue about the importance of mentorship and discipleship. Website: www.churchatviera.comEmail: sharinggrace@churchatviera.com

In this episode, we dive into the root causes of conflict in relationships, drawing wisdom from James 4:1 and exploring five key reasons disagreements arise. From power struggles to misunderstood feelings, we discuss how our own tendencies—like the need for control or selfishness—affect the way we handle conflict. Pastor Mark and the team discuss seven practical tools to "fight right," including the importance of listening, owning our part, and being quick to forgive. Whether you're navigating conflict in marriage, friendships, or work relationships, we also outline a step-by-step plan for a "peace conference" to foster resolution and reconciliation.Website: www.churchatviera.comEmail: sharinggrace@churchatviera.com

In this episode, we dive into the root causes of conflict in relationships, drawing wisdom from James 4:1 and exploring five key reasons disagreements arise. From power struggles to misunderstood feelings, we discuss how our own tendencies—like the need for control or selfishness—affect the way we handle conflict. Pastor Mark and the team discuss seven practical tools to "fight right," including the importance of listening, owning our part, and being quick to forgive. Whether you're navigating conflict in marriage, friendships, or work relationships, we also outline a step-by-step plan for a "peace conference" to foster resolution and reconciliation.Website: www.churchatviera.comEmail: sharinggrace@churchatviera.com

God has prewired all of us for relationships. We all need somebody. In a world that can be deeply discouraging, we all need friends that we can trust, lean on when things are difficult, and share in times of joy. In this episode, the team discusses the importance and value of friendships. Website: www.churchatviera.comEmail: sharinggrace@churchatviera.com

God has prewired all of us for relationships. We all need somebody. In a world that can be deeply discouraging, we all need friends that we can trust, lean on when things are difficult, and share in times of joy. In this episode, the team discusses the importance and value of friendships. Website: www.churchatviera.comEmail: sharinggrace@churchatviera.com

We all have been or will be involved in some sort of toxic relationships. Establishing clear relational boundaries is the key to preventing toxicity into your life. In this episode, the team discusses practical biblical strategies to build healthy boundaries in all of our relationships. Website: churchatviera.com Email: sharinggrace@churchatviera.com

We all have been or will be involved in some sort of toxic relationships. Establishing clear relational boundaries is the key to preventing toxicity into your life. In this episode, the team discusses practical biblical strategies to build healthy boundaries in all of our relationships. Website: churchatviera.com Email: sharinggrace@churchatviera.com

The ability to communicate well is often the key indicator to a healthy relationship. In this episode of TSGP, Mark, Jay and Brandon discuss practical techniques, passive aggressiveness, and healthy vs. unhealthy non-verbal communication. Website: www.churchatviera.com Email: sharinggrace@churchatviera.com