Corner Conversations

This week we wrestled with one of Jesus' most upside-down statements yet: “Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness.” What does it mean to be “persecuted for doing right” in a culture that often misunderstands both righteousness and resistance? We talk responsibility, false martyrdom, faithfulness in hardship, and what the Kingdom of Heaven looks like when it breaks into real life.

What does it really mean to be a peacemaker in a world that thrives on conflict, noise, and division?In this episode, we unpack Jesus' words from Matthew 5:9 — “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” We talk about how peacemaking is more than just keeping things calm or avoiding conflict. It's about stepping into broken spaces with honesty, courage, and compassion — and sometimes, that work is anything but peaceful.We explore:The difference between peacekeeping and peacemakingHow our identity shapes what we make in the worldWhy being a child of God means reflecting His character, especially in conflictThe cost — and blessing — of reconciliation

In this episode, we talk through the process behind our message on Matthew 5:8:“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.”What does it actually mean to have a pure heart?Is it about perfection? Sincerity? Honesty?We explore stories from Luke 7, the weight of unspoken expectations, and how purity might not be about getting it all right—but living with an undivided heart.And we ask: what if seeing God is less about arrival, and more about awareness?

In this episode, we open up the process behind our latest message: “Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy.”We talk about what mercy actually means—beyond just feeling sorry for someone—and why it's so hard to extend it when we've been hurt, disappointed, or overwhelmed.From parables to personal stories to what Jesus wrote in the dirt, we wrestle with how mercy challenges us, shapes us, and invites us to live differently in a culture that often celebrates the opposite.And we reflect on the uncomfortable truth: we can't give what we haven't let ourselves receive.

In this episode, we unpack the second Beatitude: “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.”We talk about why people watch sad movies on purpose, what's really going on under the phrase “I'm fine,” and how mourning might be less about falling apart—and more about finally being present. This one gets honest, a little raw, and surprisingly hopeful.

What does it mean to stop celebrating a caged, stuffed, or sketched version of Jesus—and instead encounter Him in the wild?In this episode, we talk through the process of writing our Easter message for Corner Church. From the early church's explosion in Jerusalem to Philip's strange road trip and the parable of the bear (yes, that's a thing), we unpack the heart behind this year's theme: Jesus in the Wild.

This episode dives into the heart of our 2025 Palm Sunday UNITED service—a message that broke from tradition to retell the story of Jesus' entry into Jerusalem through the lens of the Prodigal Son.Why Luke 15? Why multiple readers? Why such an emotionally immersive approach? We unpack the questions, creative decisions, and conversations that led us to connect Palm Sunday not just with celebration, but with tension, misunderstanding, grace, and the long road home.Whether you were there or not, this is your chance to step behind the curtain and reflect on why the story still matters—and why how we tell it matters just as much.

In this episode, our pastoral team sits down to unpack the conversations that shaped our final message in the Isaiah series. We explore the tension between rescue and responsibility, the imagery of being clothed in righteousness, and what it really means to live in response to God's generosity. From Paul's letters to Jesus' parables, we wrestle with the beauty and complexity of faith, asking how salvation and righteousness shape not just what we believe—but how we live.

In this episode, we unpack the conversations that led to our message on Isaiah 58 and 61. From the tension between ritual and relationship to the deeper questions about what God truly values, we explore how justice, mercy, and humility aren't just spiritual ideals—they're everyday invitations. Join us as we reflect on what motivates real generosity, how religious practices can go hollow, and what it means to become people shaped by what truly matters.

In this episode, we talk through the conversations and reflections that shaped our message on Isaiah 55. We dig into how God's invitation to “Come” shows up again and again in scripture—and in our own lives. From ancient prophecy to Jesus' call to follow, to the real-life complexity of saying yes, this is a conversation about responding to God's invitation with faith, even when we don't have it all figured out.We also wrestle with what keeps people from accepting or extending that invitation—our doubts, fears, and even past church baggage. And we tell some stories along the way that remind us how even the things that don't make sense in the moment might just end up mattering the most.

We say we want help, but do we really? In this episode, we unpack the conversation behind the message on Isaiah 53, diving into the tension between needing rescue and resisting it. Why is asking for help so hard? What changes when we actually do? And how does Jesus' suffering challenge our expectations of what real rescue looks like?Join us as we explore the unexpected beauty of Isaiah 53, connect it to our everyday struggles, and wrestle with what it really means to be rescued by Jesus.

This week, we're unpacking Isaiah 37-39—where a king's faith shines, then stumbles, and God's hope still breaks through. We dive into how prayer can turn crises around, how pride can trip us up, and why doubt lingers even after miracles. It's a messy, real look at trusting God now versus later, and how His kingdom shows up in the everyday. Join us for a convo that hits home, then come explore it live Sunday at Corner Church!

In this episode, we unpack the conversations that shaped our message on Isaiah 24–27. We wrestle with the tension between consequences and hope, exploring how God, as a skilled gardener, uses both to refine us. We discuss the difference between a harvested vine and a trampled branch, the role of connection in spiritual growth, and Jesus' powerful words in John 15. What does it mean to be pruned for something better? And how do we embrace both grace and growth in our own lives? Join us as we dive into the process behind the message.

In this episode, we unpack the conversations that shaped our message on Isaiah 13–23. From the discomfort of hearing warnings—whether they're for us or not—to how pride can block growth, we wrestle with what it means to truly listen. We also explore how Jesus' teachings challenge our assumptions and invite us into something deeper. It's a raw, honest look at how these ancient words still speak to us today.#CornerChurch #Podcast #Isaiah13to23 #PrideAndHumility #JesusWords #SundayConversations #FaithInCommunity

Ever felt tempted to patch your biggest problems with a quick fix? In this behind-the-scenes podcast, we talk through the raw conversations, hidden tensions, and lightbulb moments that shaped our upcoming message. Join us as we explore what happens when real life collides with faith—and why ditching the duct tape could be your best move yet.

What does it really mean to know God—not just know about Him? In this episode, we dive into the conversations that shaped this week's message on Isaiah 1–6. We explore:

In this episode, we dive into the conversations that inspired our message on the final chapter of Haggai. Together, we explore the profound connection between our actions and our hearts, the challenge of obedience, and the transformative power of God's grace. From ancient prophecies to practical insights, this discussion unpacks what it means to give careful thought to our ways and to live as people shaped by God's promises. Whether you're familiar with Haggai or hearing it for the first time, this conversation will challenge and encourage you.

In this episode, we take you behind the scenes of our conversation leading up to the writing of this week's message on Haggai 2:1-9. From the complexity of asking for help to the transformative power of God's presence in our work, we explore what it means to partner with God in building something meaningful. Along the way, we reflect on how Jesus helps and invites us to do the same in our lives and communities. Whether you're struggling to ask for help or wondering how to respond to God's nudge, this conversation is for you. Tune in to hear our thoughts, challenges, and encouragements as we dive into the heart of this passage.

In this episode, we dive into the powerful message of Haggai 1:12-15, exploring what happens when God's people respond to His call with action. After years of stalled progress, the Israelites leap into rebuilding the temple, fueled by obedience, faith, and the assurance of God's presence. We discuss practical insights on overcoming roadblocks, rekindling passion, and embracing Jesus' invitation to find rest for our souls. Whether you're feeling stuck or searching for renewed purpose, this conversation will inspire and challenge you to take your next step of faith.

In this episode, we kick off the new year by diving into the book of Haggai, exploring its powerful call to examine and prioritize our ways. Together, we reflect on the significance of God's plan in our daily lives and the challenges of staying focused amidst distractions. Join us as we unpack timeless truths, share personal insights, and discuss how to set meaningful priorities for the year ahead.

In this episode, we dive into the conversations and reflections that shaped our December 22 message, "God With Us." Join us as we explore the beauty of Jesus as the Good Shepherd, the profound meaning of "Emmanuel," and what it means to be sought, seen, and cared for by God. From humble beginnings in a manger to moments of doubt and celebration, we discuss how Jesus' presence transforms our understanding of faith, love, and the human experience. Whether you're feeling lost, found, or somewhere in between, this conversation invites you to reflect on the reality of God With Us.

In this episode, we dive into the conversations that shaped our latest message in the Christmas series. The Christmas story is full of unexpected characters—shepherds, wise men, and even names in Jesus' genealogy that make you stop and ask, “What are they doing here?” We explore how God invites the insignificant and the outsiders into His story, revealing His character of grace, accessibility, and relentless love. From shepherds in the fields to magi from distant lands, this episode will challenge your perspective and remind you that you are central to God's plan—no matter how unqualified or unseen you may feel. Join us as we reflect, connect, and discover the beauty of being part of God's story.

In this episode, we explore the character of Jesus through the lens of the Christmas story. What does His birth narrative reveal about His humility, compassion, and faithfulness? Join us as we discuss the profound significance of Jesus being born in a “nobody's” household and the accessibility of grace. Through personal stories, dialogue questions, and biblical context, we uncover how the Christmas story speaks to our struggles with being “good enough” and offers a transformative picture of God's grace and connection. This is the first of three episodes leading up to Christmas, delving into the power of narrative and the gift of Immanuel—God with us.

In this episode, we dive deep into Esther chapters 7 and 8, exploring themes of trust, hope, and divine intervention in the most desperate circumstances. Join us as we unpack the pivotal moments of Esther's bravery, Haman's downfall, and God's provision in turning the tide for His people. Through dialogue, reflection, and honest conversation, we consider how faith in God's goodness and justice shapes our response to life's darkest moments. Whether you're familiar with the story or hearing it for the first time, this episode will inspire you to find hope and trust in the midst of the muck.

What happens when a sleepless king, a delusional villain, and an unassuming hero collide? You get one of the most hilariously ironic moments in the Bible! In this episode, we explore the comedy, irony, and life lessons in Esther 5-6. From King Xerxes unknowingly putting Haman in charge of honoring his worst enemy, to Mordecai's epic ride through Susa (led by a very grumpy Haman), this story has all the makings of a divine sitcom. We also reflect on what this teaches us about pride, humility, and those unexpected moments when life flips the script.

In this episode, we dig deep into Esther 3-4, where the stakes are life and death, and Esther is faced with a calling that risks everything. Join us as we explore the famous line, "for such a time as this," and unpack what it means beyond the glamour of epic moments. How do we find purpose in the day-to-day, especially in times of fear, uncertainty, or unfairness? We'll discuss how the early readers might have understood this text, the layers of courage and sacrifice Esther embraced, and how we can see God in our lives—even when He seems absent. Perfect for anyone searching for perspective on purpose, resilience, and seeing the divine in each moment.

In this first episode of our new series on Esther, we dive into the conversations, questions, and reflections that led up to exploring the story of Esther and Mordecai. Set in a world where God seems absent but is powerfully at work, we consider how Esther's unexpected rise to influence mirrors our own callings to be present and engaged where we are. We discuss themes of purpose, placement, and divine providence, inviting you to see God's hand even in life's messiest moments. Join us as we explore what it means to be placed in our world "for such a time as this."

In this special pre-retreat episode, pastors Rich, Greg, Rachel, and Scott gather to discuss the sessions they've prepared for the upcoming Corner Church Fall Retreat. Centered around the timeless words of the Lord's Prayer, each session offers a unique perspective on how this prayer guides and transforms our daily walk with God. Rich kicks off the conversation by setting the scene from the Sermon on the Mount. He explores how Jesus taught about authentic connection with God and introduces the significance of the Lord's Prayer in that context. Greg dives into the phrases "Hallowed be Thy name" and "Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven." Reflecting on the reverence due to God's name, Greg discusses the importance of recognizing God's work around us and how we can actively participate in His Kingdom. Rachel shifts the focus to our daily dependence on God with "Give us today our daily bread" and "Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors." She delves into trusting God for our needs, the challenge this poses to our sense of security, and the transformative power of embracing grace and forgiveness. Scott concludes with a discussion on "And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one." He addresses the realities of life's challenges and the importance of seeking God's guidance and protection amid struggles. Join us as we share insights, stories, and heartfelt dialogue in anticipation of a meaningful retreat experience. Whether you're attending the retreat or simply seeking a deeper understanding of the Lord's Prayer, this episode invites you to prepare your heart and mind for a journey of faith and discovery.

In this episode, we dive into the heart of 2 Peter 3:14-18, unpacking its timeless wisdom for believers today. As we prepare for Sunday's message at Corner Church, we'll explore what it truly means to "make every effort" to lead lives that are spotless and at peace with God. Join us as we discuss: The Call to Righteous Living: Understanding how we can actively pursue purity and integrity in our daily lives. God's Patience as Our Opportunity: Reflecting on how the Lord's patience opens the door for salvation and spiritual growth. Navigating Complex Scriptures: Sharing tips on how to approach and comprehend challenging biblical passages. Guarding Against Misinterpretations: Recognizing and avoiding distorted teachings that can lead us astray. Growing in Grace and Knowledge: Practical steps to deepen our relationship with Jesus Christ. Whether you're new to the faith or seeking to deepen your understanding, this conversation aims to inspire and equip you to live out these principles with intention and joy. Let's journey together towards spiritual maturity, embracing the grace and knowledge that come from our Lord and Savior.

In this episode, we dive into the discussions that inspired our recent message based on 2 Peter 3. We explore how distractions—both external and internal—can steer us away from loving God and loving others. Join us as we share insights, personal stories, and practical tips on staying focused on what truly matters. 2 Peter 3, Bible study, Distractions, Faith journey, Loving God, Loving people, Christian living, Spiritual growth, Overcoming challenges, Staying focused, Peter's letters, Biblical insights, Encouragement, Wisdom, Christian podcast, New Testament, Faith discussions, Podcast episode

In this episode, we dive into the second chapter of 2 Peter, where Peter fiercely condemns the bad advice givers. But amid this harsh rebuke, we uncover a beautiful truth: "The Lord knows how to rescue the godly from trials." Join us as we explore the concept of grace—God's rescue of us—through personal stories of failure, biblical narratives, and the tension between judgment and mercy. We'll process what it means to feel God's grace not just as a passive idea, but as a lived experience that can change our perspective on failure. Prepare to reflect, share, and wrestle with how grace shapes our relationship with God, even when life is at its messiest.

Exploring the Challenges and Essentials of Developing Healthy Theology in a Distracted World In this episode, the Corner Church Pastoral Team dives into the discussions that shaped this week's message from 2 Peter. We talk about the key challenges that lead to bad theology—things like biblical illiteracy, cultural pressure, and chasing comfort. We also share practical ways to build strong, healthy theology rooted in truth and community. This conversation highlights the urgency Peter felt as he wrote, and the responsibility we all have to stay focused on Christ and not get sidetracked by bad advice. Join us as we explore how to cultivate faith that stands the test of time. theology, building good theology, faith, scripture, 2 Peter, Bible study, bad theology, Christian podcast, Corner Church, Jesus, spiritual growth, church community, biblical illiteracy, cultural pressure, faith journey, developing faith, understanding scripture, Christian belief, staying focused on Christ

In this episode, we dive into the heart of 2 Peter and the conversation that led to our recent message. We explore how Peter's advice to trust in God's help while actively working on our personal growth speaks to the challenges we face today. From dealing with life's unexpected twists to filtering out bad advice, this conversation unpacks the balance between relying on God and putting in the effort ourselves. Join us as we process what it means to grow in faith, even when life isn't easy. 2 Peter, spiritual growth, faith, life challenges, God's help, personal effort, trusting God, bad advice, navigating hardships, Christian podcast, Corner Church, growth in faith, life's surprises, Peter's advice, community conversations, scripture processing, faith and effort balance

In this episode, we dive deep into the conversations that shaped our message on 1 Peter. Join us as we discuss Peter's final words of encouragement—about staying alert, resisting the things that pull us away from faith, and holding on to hope in tough times. Whether you're familiar with the Bible or just getting started, this conversation unpacks what it looks like to live with intentionality, humility, and resilience. Listen in and be encouraged to keep hope alive, no matter what you're facing.

In this episode, we dive deep into the themes of trust, failure, and growth that inspired our latest message at Corner Church. We discuss how life's pivotal moments—both good and bad—shape our journey and understanding of what it means to be entrusted by God. Listen as we unpack the challenges of facing our weaknesses, the significance of being trusted despite our flaws, and the powerful message that failure isn't the end, but rather a stepping stone to greater purpose. Whether you're navigating your own struggles or seeking to understand how trust plays a role in your spiritual journey, this episode is for you.

In this episode, we dive into reflecting on 1 Peter 4:1-11. Join us as we discuss the significance of identifying value in the most challenging seasons of life. From personal struggles to the call for selflessness, we explore how these moments refine us, fuel our growth, and lead us to a deeper understanding of faith, prayer, and love. Whether you're facing a -9 on the difficulty scale or finding strength in your faith, this episode will inspire you to see the purpose in your journey.

In this episode, we dive into 1 Peter 3:13-22 and explore the internal character attributes that shape our external realities. Drawing inspiration from Peter's life—his boldness, his impulsiveness, and ultimately his maturity in Christ—we discuss how we can cultivate Christ-like character, even in the most challenging moments. Join us as we unpack the significance of steering our internal attributes, staying focused on our faith, and shining brightly in our communities. Whether you're facing adversity or simply seeking to grow in your faith, this conversation offers practical insights and encouragement.

Join us as we reflect on our Summer United Service at Wirth Beach, where our Corner Church communities came together for a day of worship, connection, and celebration. In this episode, we share the stories that highlight the value of being part of the Body of Christ, discuss the importance of intentionality in our daily lives, and hear from different people about the impact of our united gathering.

In this episode of Corner Church's podcast, we dive into Week 5 of our series on 1 Peter, focusing on 1 Peter 3:1-12. Join us as we explore the call to live harmoniously, showing love, compassion, and humility in all relationships. We'll discuss how to handle difficult relationships, the power of unconditional love, and practical steps to embody Christ-like behavior in our daily lives. 

In this episode, we dive into the fourth week of our study on 1 Peter, focusing on 1 Peter 2:11-25. Peter's message of submission to authority is both challenging and enlightening, especially considering his own tumultuous journey as a disciple. We explore Peter's background, his struggles, and his profound empathy for the marginalized Christians in ancient Turkey. Join us as we discuss how Peter's teachings on trust, submission, and perseverance apply to our lives today. We reflect on the importance of building rapid trust, the dangers of manipulated trust, and the steps to restore trust once it's broken. We'll also engage in a deep conversation about trusting God amidst life's pains and the profound impact it has on our relationships and actions. Key Points: Understanding Peter's complex journey and his message of hope. Practical steps to build rapid trust and the potential for misuse. Dialogues on trust in God, especially in times of suffering. The balance between living a good life and submitting to human authority. Real-life applications and personal reflections on enduring through challenges. Join us for an insightful conversation that encourages perseverance, empathy, and unwavering faith in the midst of adversity. Take It Deeper Questions Read 1 Peter 2:11-25. When was a tough moment where your trust was broken? When do you find it most difficult to give in to what someone else wants or let someone else win? When in life do you find it difficult to trust? What does it look like to recover from broken trust?

In this episode, we dive into the message of 1 Peter 2:4-10, exploring how Peter's words offer hope and encouragement to those feeling the sting of rejection. We discuss the significance of being chosen by God, the importance of building our lives on the firm foundation of Jesus' teachings, and practical ways to set ourselves and others up for success in faith. Join us as we unpack these powerful truths and reflect on how a relationship with Jesus transforms our experience of rejection into acceptance. 1 Peter, 1 Peter 2, rejection, acceptance, faith, Jesus, Peter, disciple, spiritual growth, foundation, God's love, overcoming challenges, biblical teaching, Christian living, church podcast, Corner Church, faith journey, spiritual encouragement, sermon podcast, embracing faith, building faith, spiritual resilience, Christianity

Practical Steps to Live Out Your Faith with 1 Peter as Our Guide In this episode, we dive into the book of 1 Peter, focusing on how to turn our faith into meaningful actions. We'll explore Peter's guidance to early believers who were struggling, and discuss how to develop healthy "therefores" in our own lives. Join us as we break down the importance of moving from knowing the right answers to living them out daily. Whether you're a seasoned believer or new to the faith, this conversation aims to inspire and equip you to embody your beliefs in practical, impactful ways. faith, action, 1 Peter, Bible study, practical faith, healthy habits, spiritual growth, Christian living, podcast, religious podcast, believer's journey, living out faith, practical Christianity, Peter's letters, early church, spiritual maturity, embodying faith, turning faith into action, Corner Church, community discussion, meaningful actions, faith in daily life

In this episode, we delve into the thought process behind our latest message on 1 Peter 1:1-12. Join us as we discuss how Peter's words resonate with our current cultural context and what it means to live as exiles today. We explore the themes of belonging, faith, and the power of personal struggles in shaping our journey. Whether you're feeling isolated, questioning your path, or looking for hope, this conversation is for you. 1 Peter, Peter, Bible study, faith, belonging, Christian podcast, cultural exile, Corner Church, personal struggles, hope, New Testament, biblical insights, community, Christianity, sermon preparation, religious discussion, spiritual growth, modern faith challenges, understanding scripture, living as exiles, church community, religious podcast

Join us for an insightful journey as we dive into the book of James, exploring the final chapter and its profound message. In this podcast series, we share candid conversations that shaped our understanding and delivery of James 5:19-20. Reflecting on themes of perseverance, community support, and spiritual growth, we discuss how to stay true to our faith and help others do the same. Listen in as we connect scripture to real-life challenges and discover the importance of being 'the real deal' in every season of life. Perfect for anyone seeking to deepen their faith and foster meaningful connections within their community.

In this week's episode, we delve into the profound message from James 5:12-18, focusing on the importance of recognizing God's presence in every moment of our lives, whether we are in trouble, celebrating, or facing illness. Join us as we explore how prayer, community support, and steadfast faith can guide us through life's challenges and joys. We also share stories of mission work and highlight the value of simple, honest communication in building a strong, supportive community. Listen in to gain insights and encouragement for your faith journey.

Join us in this episode of Real Talk with James as we dive deep into the conversations and reflections that shaped our latest message on patience and perseverance. From exploring the ideal disaster partner to discussing the balance between needing God for everything and nothing, we cover it all. Listen in as we break down James 5:7-11, and learn how to apply these timeless teachings to our modern lives. Whether you're looking for personal growth or ways to support your community, this episode offers valuable insights and practical steps to help you be patient, stand firm, and persevere through life's challenges.

Join us as we delve into a discussion inspired by James 5:1-6. In this episode, we explore how to maintain integrity and compassion during personal hardships. Drawing from our recent message and real-life experiences, we discuss the importance of not using difficulties as an excuse to harm others. Tune in to hear practical steps and insights on living out our faith authentically, even when times are tough. Tags: James 5, integrity, faith, hardships, Christian living, podcast, Corner Church, authentic faith, compassion, personal growth, practical Christianity, community discussion, spiritual growth, Bible study, Minneapolis, sermon discussion

Join us as we dive into James 5:1-6, exploring the complex relationship between wealth and justice. We'll reflect on the harsh warnings James gives to the rich, the societal impacts of hoarding wealth, and the importance of aligning our actions with our beliefs. This episode also includes prayer focuses for our missionaries, local community, and church needs, plus exciting announcements and opportunities to get involved with Corner Church. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on how to be the “real deal” in your faith and actions amidst life's challenges.

In this episode, we dive into the powerful message of James 4 and explore the common "WHEN I" mentality that holds us back from living our faith fully. Join us as we discuss the challenges of procrastination, the importance of seizing the moment, and the specific callings that God has placed on each of our lives. We'll reflect on the universal and individual actions we're called to take, inspired by the teachings of Paul and Jeremiah. Tune in for an engaging conversation that encourages you to embrace the now and live out your faith with purpose and conviction.

In this episode of "A Conversation on...", we delve into James 3:1-18, focusing on the profound impact of our words and the pursuit of heavenly wisdom. This discussion is not just a theological exploration but a practical guide on how to embody the teachings of James in our daily interactions and decisions. From the responsibilities of teachers to the dual nature of the tongue that blesses and curses, we unpack the scripture's call for integrity in speech and actions. Join us as we reflect on personal stories, engage with key biblical insights, and explore how to align our words with our faith in a world full of challenges and opportunities.

In this episode, we dive into the inspiring discussions that shaped our message on James 2. We explore what it means to have faith in action and how biblical figures like Abraham and Rahab exemplify this through their lives. Join us as we unpack the complexities of faith, grace, and the importance of putting belief into practice. Whether you're seeking deeper understanding or looking for encouragement in your walk with Christ, this conversation is for you.