Dogwood Church Podcast

Following Jesus in a Culture That Pushes Back (Part 3)Joy, Confidence, and Courage

How do we live faithfully for Jesus in a world that often pushes back against faith? In this message, we explore Jesus' final teaching to His disciples before the cross and discover the incredible help God has already given us—the Holy Spirit.Drawing from John 15:26–27 and John 16:5–15, this teaching unpacks how the Holy Spirit empowers ordinary believers to be faithful representatives of Jesus Christ where we live, work, and play. You'll learn why help is not on the way—help is already here.In this message, you'll discover:-How the Holy Spirit is with us and in us-Why faith is rooted in truth, not feelings (illustrated by the classic train analogy from Bill Bright, founder of Campus Crusade for Christ)-How the Spirit opens blind eyes to sin, righteousness, and judgment-Why the Holy Spirit always keeps Jesus at the center-How God guides believers into lifelong growth and truthThis message is part of the series Living for Jesus in a Pushback World and offers practical encouragement for believers of all ages—kids, students, and adults—along with a clear invitation for those exploring faith to respond to Christ.

Help for Troubled Hearts  Part 1 of 5The Promise of Heaven

“When I came to you, brothers and sisters, announcing the mystery of God to you, I did not come withbrilliance of speech or wisdom...I came to you in weakness, in fear, and in much trembling.” (1Corinthians 2:1, 3, CSB)So Are You Afraid? Initiate Gospel Conversations Anyway!“This is why I remind you to fan into flames the spiritual gift God gave you when I laid my hands onyou.” (2 Timothy 1:6, NLT)“...Work at telling others the Good News...” (2 Timothy 4:5c, NLT)Your Mission Field Is Comprised Of Relationships!Step #1: Identify the people in your social circles.Immediate FamilyClose FriendsExtended FamilyOther FriendsNeighborsWork Associates or ClassmatesAcquaintancesMr or Ms XStep #2. Mark the ones you know are followers of Jesus.Step #3. Mark the ones who are not, or you're unsure if they are.Step #4. Spend the rest of your life influencing everyone on your list to follow Jesus.