FaithBridge Church Podcast

In the shadow of the cross, Jesus exposes what's really going on in the human heart. At the table sit three very different responses to the same Savior—Judas' treason, Peter's pride, and the quiet, faithful love of a true disciple. Which one reflects you? • Can you be close to Jesus and still turn from Him? • How does pride disguise itself as devotion? • What does genuine love for Jesus look like when failure is exposed? Whether you're skeptical, curious, or convinced, today's episode invites you to examine your own response to Jesus. He knows our failures before we speak them—and still calls us to follow. The question is: how will you respond?

What kind of God gets down on the floor to wash feet? Today we look at Jesus doing the unthinkable—serving instead of being served. With a towel and a basin, He redefines greatness and reveals what God is really like. Would God actually choose humility over power? Why does Jesus serve even those He knows will fail Him? What if greatness isn't climbing higher, but stooping lower? In John 13:1-20 we find a picture of a God who kneels—and invites us to rethink everything we believe about power, worth, and love.

Why do some people see the truth and still walk away? How does fear of people shape what we say—or don't say—about Jesus? And whose approval are we really living for? Even after all Jesus had done, many still refused to believe. Others believed—but stayed silent. In John 12:37–50, the spotlight shifts from public miracles to private motives, exposing the danger of wanting approval from people more than praise from God. This passage challenges us to examine our hearts and answer the question we all face—are we chasing the praise of man, or the praise of God?

Do we want Jesus for who He truly is, or who we want Him to be? Are we drawn to His light or are we afraid of what it exposes? As the crowds grow and the tension rises, Jesus starts talking about death instead of victory. In John 12:19–36, He reveals that His glory will come through suffering—and He invites us to rethink what kind of King we're looking for. Why does Jesus say the hour has finally come? What kind of Messiah wins by laying down His life? And what does it mean to follow a Savior who calls us to lose our lives to find them?

As Jesus enters Jerusalem, the crowds celebrate Him as King—but days later, many will walk away. Why? In John 12:12–19, we see a King unlike any other: humble, peaceful, and sent to save, not conquer. What kind of King are you looking for? Could Jesus be more than a good teacher or miracle worker? And what if the true King has come—not to take your life from you, but to give you life forever?

In today's passage two very different attitudes toward Jesus show up in the same moment. Mary kneels at Jesus' feet and pours out an extremely expensive perfume. It's a bold act of extravagant worship that doesn't hold anything back. Judas immediately criticizes this - it seems like a waste. To Jesus, it is true worship. Judas responds in a way that sounds smart and caring. He talks about helping the poor. His words make sense on the surface. But Jesus reveals what's really going on—Judas isn't motivated by love for Jesus but by selfish greed. Mary gives freely because she loves Jesus. Judas speaks carefully but gives nothing. This passage challenges us to look at our own hearts. Is our devotion to Jesus marked by real sacrifice, or by words that sound right but cost us nothing? Is our worship a sacrifice like Mary, or mere lip service like Judas?

When Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead, it didn't just inspire worship—it ignited outrage. Some believed. Others plotted murder. Why? Because the real trouble wasn't Jesus… it was the religious people who felt threatened by Him. In this sermon from John 11:45–57, we confront an uncomfortable truth: sometimes we are the trouble. When faith becomes about control, comfort, or reputation, the presence of Jesus disrupts everything. The greatest opposition to God's work doesn't always come from the world—but from those who think they're protecting religion. Are we more concerned with preserving our systems than proclaiming the Savior? Do we celebrate life change—or feel threatened by it? Could our “good intentions” actually stand in the way of God's glory? Join us as we examine how fear, power, and misplaced priorities can turn religious people into opponents of God—and how Jesus still moves forward with His redemptive plan, even through human resistance.

Ever felt like a situation in your life has gone past the "fixable" stage and moved straight into the "stinky" stage? You're in good company. In today's sermon, we're diving into one of the most famous—and fragrant—moments in the Gospel of John: the raising of Lazarus. Most of us know the Sunday school version, but we often gloss over the gritty reality that Martha was quick to point out: "Lord, by this time there is a bad odor, for he has been there four days" (John 11:39). Lazarus wasn't just "mostly dead"; he was decaying. Pastor Rich will explore: The Power of the Delay: Why Jesus purposely waited until the situation "stunk" before showing up. The "Lazarus Moment": How Jesus doesn't just patch up the parts of our lives that are struggling—He calls out the things that are completely dead and buried. Unwrapping the Grave Clothes: Why Jesus commands the community to help "unbind" Lazarus, and what that means for us today as we help each other walk out of our own "tombs". The Hope in the Stench: A reminder that no mistake, relationship, or habit is too far gone for the One who is the Resurrection and the Life. Whether you're dealing with a "stinky" circumstance right now or just need a reminder that God isn't afraid of your mess, join us as we look at how Jesus brings new life to the places we've already given up on.

Start your year with a spiritual reset as we dive into Proverbs 1. In today's sermon, "Resolutions for the Believer," Pastor Rich will explore how to swap "hustle culture" for a heart of wisdom. Discover why "The Fear of the Lord" is the essential first step for any resolution. Learn to distinguish between worldly shortcuts and God's righteous paths. Find wisdom's voice in the middle of a noisy world. Stop wandering and start walking with purpose. It's time to build your life on the skill of godly living.

Is Jesus really the Messiah—or just a good teacher? In John 10:22–42, a group of Jews confront Jesus demanding to know Who are You, really. Jesus' response leaves no room for neutrality as He points to His works, His identity, and His unity with the Father. Why does the same truth lead some to worship and others to pick up stones? What keeps people from believing when the evidence is clear? And what does recognizing Jesus as the Messiah mean for your life right now? Join us as we explore this powerful moment and wrestle with the question every person must answer: Who do you say Jesus is?

Who are you trusting to guide your life—and where are they really leading you? In John 10:1–21, Jesus calls Himself the Good Shepherd—the One who knows His sheep, calls them by name, and lays down His life for them. Are you listening for His voice, or just the loudest ones around you? Today, Pastor Rich invites you to hear the Shepherd's call and discover the life only He can give.

What happens when Jesus opens your eyes? In John 9, a man born blind is healed—and his life is never the same. This story isn't just about sight, but about discovering who Jesus really is. Have you seen Him clearly? What's holding you back from stepping into the light? Join us as we explore John 9 and the hope, courage, and new life that begin when Jesus opens your eyes.

What if the “freedom” you're chasing is actually keeping you stuck? What if the lies shaping your decisions are the very things Jesus came to break? In this episode, we explore John 8:30–59, where Jesus exposes a deeper kind of slavery—one hidden beneath confidence, religion, and self-reliance. Then He offers what no one else can: truth that actually frees your life, not just fills your mind. What lies are holding you back today? Why do we resist the truth even when it heals us? Discover Jesus' bold, hope-filled promise: “You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”

Why does life feel dark, confusing, or empty at times? And what if the solution isn't a new habit or mindset—but a Person? Today, Pastor Rich will discuss Jesus' stunning claim in John 8:12-38, “I am the Light of the World.” What kind of light exposes truth, breaks the power of sin, and leads us into real freedom? What if following Jesus isn't about religion at all, but about stepping out of darkness and into life? If you're searching for clarity, hope, or freedom, this conversation will point you straight to the One who can give it.

Hate, grudges, revenge… sound familiar? Jesus calls us to something radically different: love our enemies. Today we'll unpack what that really means and how showing God's love could transform lives—including your own. Are you ready to love like Jesus?

What would you do if Jesus confronted you with your sin? Would you argue, ignore Him, or find hope in His mercy? In John 7:40–8:11, a crowd is divided, leaders are angry, and a woman caught in sin faces judgment—but Jesus offers forgiveness instead. Today's sermon will challenge you: How do you respond to Jesus today? Are you curious, skeptical, or ready for a fresh start? Tune in and discover the life-changing power of His grace.

What if the emptiness you feel is really spiritual thirst? And what if Jesus is the only One who can satisfy it? In John 7:25–39, Jesus offers “living water” — the life, forgiveness, and deep renewal only He can give. Many people missed it because they were looking everywhere except to Him. If you're searching for something real, something that fills the emptiness instead of just distracting it, today's sermon will point you to the source. Are you ready to come to Jesus and drink the living water He freely offers?

What if the way you judge truth is keeping you from actually finding it? And what if your assumptions about Jesus have been wrong? Today,, we look at John 7:1–24, where Jesus challenges the crowd — and us — to stop judging by appearances and start seeking truth with an honest heart. Many people rejected Him not because He failed to prove Himself, but because they never looked deeper. If you've ever wondered who Jesus really is, or what it means to see Him clearly, today's sermon will help you take that next step. Are you willing to judge Jesus rightly — and let that truth change your life?

Last week, we heard Jesus declare, “I am the Bread of Life.” But in John 6:47–71, His words get even more challenging. He tells His followers that they must “eat His flesh and drink His blood”—a statement that shocks the crowd and even causes many to walk away. What was Jesus really saying? Why did His message divide so many people? And what does it mean for us to truly feed on Christ today? Today we explore the cost of genuine discipleship—the difference between being a fan of Jesus and a true follower. As Peter says, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.” When others turned away, Peter stayed. Will you? Questions to reflect on: • Why do some people walk away when Jesus' words get uncomfortable? • What does it mean to truly “feed” on Christ in faith? • When following Jesus is hard, what keeps you from turning back?

After feeding thousands with just a few loaves and fish, Jesus challenges the crowds in a way that still surprises us today. In John 6:22-46, He declares, “I am the bread of life”—inviting us to look beyond physical hunger to the spiritual nourishment only He can provide. But what does it mean to truly feed on Him? And why do so many struggle to accept this gift? Today Pastor Rich will explore the deep truths behind Jesus' claim, uncover what it looks like to be spiritually satisfied, and consider the choice He places before each of us: temporary satisfaction or eternal life. Questions to ponder: • What “bread” do you usually turn to when life feels empty? • How is following Jesus different from simply seeking what satisfies for a moment? • Are you hungry for Him—or just curious about what He offers? Ready to discover more about Jesus or FaithBridge? https://www.faithbridgenh.org/discover

What do you do when the storm hits? When the waves rise, the wind howls, and fear takes over—where is your faith anchored? In John 6:16-21 and Matthew 14:22–33, Jesus comes to His disciples in the middle of the storm, walking on the water. What terrified them at first became the very moment that revealed His power and presence. Peter dared to step out of the boat—but started to sink when his eyes drifted from Jesus. Sound familiar? How often do we start in faith but get overwhelmed by fear, doubt, or distraction? This story isn't just about Jesus calming the storm—it's about Him calling us to trust Him in the storm. Join us as we explore what it means to fix our eyes on Jesus when life feels out of control, and discover the truth that changes everything: You may feel like you're sinking—but Jesus is still walking on the water.

What are you really hungry for? In John 6:1–15, crowds chase after Jesus because He fills their stomachs with bread—but He longs to fill their souls with faith. This miracle of feeding thousands reveals more than God's power to provide; it exposes the deeper question: Do we seek Jesus only for what He can give us, or do we trust Him for who He truly is? Are you pursuing temporary satisfaction, or eternal life? Do you come to Jesus with open hands, asking for your needs to be met, or with open hearts, believing that He Himself is enough? Join us as we dive into this passage and wrestle with the challenge every follower of Jesus must face: Will you settle for food, or will you live by faith? Ready to discover more about Jesus or FaithBridge? https://www.faithbridgenh.org/discover

Who do you really believe? In John 5:31–47, Jesus lays out the undeniable testimonies that point to Him—John the Baptist, His miraculous works, God the Father's own voice, and the Scriptures themselves. Yet, the tragic reality is that many still refused to believe. What about you? If you've never trusted Christ, will you take God at His word and believe the testimony He has already given about His Son? Eternal life is not found in human approval, good works, or religious effort—it's found only in Jesus. And if you are a follower of Christ, are you living daily in the confidence of God's testimony, or are you settling for the shifting approval of people? Are you letting Scripture lead you closer to Christ, or are you content with knowing about Him without truly knowing Him? Will you believe the testimony of man—or the testimony of God? Ready to discover more about Jesus or FaithBridge? https://www.faithbridgenh.org/discover

“Do you want to be made well?” Jesus asked this question to a man who had been broken for 38 years—and He still asks it today. The truth is, all of us are in desperate need of healing. Some of us need to be rescued from sin, forgiven, and given new life through faith in Jesus. Others need Jesus to break through patterns of fear, hopelessness, or compromise. Today we'll discover that real wholeness isn't found in religion, self-effort, or waiting for the “perfect moment.” It's found in Jesus alone—the Son of God. • Have you been trying to fix yourself instead of turning to Jesus? • What excuses keep you from stepping into the healing only He can bring? • As a follower of Christ, are you living in victory or merely getting by? Whether you're exploring faith or seeking to grow deeper, this passage confronts us all with the same invitation: come to Jesus, and be made well. John 5:1-23

What does it really mean to believe in Jesus? In John 4:43–54, a royal official is confronted with a choice: will he take Jesus at His word, or refuse to believe until he sees proof? Why do so many demand signs before they'll believe? Why does Jesus call us to trust His word even before the miracle comes? And what would shift in your life if you dared to believe Him without first seeing the outcome? Today Pastor Rich presses into the question that every heart must answer: To Believe or Not To Believe. Ready to discover more about Jesus or FaithBridge? https://www.faithbridgenh.org/discover

What kind of Savior meets people right where they are—broken, rejected, searching—and offers them living hope? In John 4:27–42, Jesus crosses cultural and religious barriers, revealing Himself as the Savior of the world. How could one conversation with an unlikely witness spark faith in an entire town? And what would it look like if we took that same message of hope into the world today? Join us as we explore this powerful passage, discovering why Jesus is not just a Savior, but the Savior of the World—and why that changes everything for us. Ready to discover more about Jesus or FaithBridge? https://www.faithbridgenh.org/discover

Have you ever felt like you're constantly searching for something to fulfill you, only to be left empty? In a world of endless pursuits—relationships, careers, and material possessions—we're often left feeling parched and unfulfilled. Today we'll explore the famous story of Jesus and the Samaritan woman at the well. We delve into why Jesus deliberately broke social norms to offer living water to a woman that society had cast aside. • What is "living water" and how is it the only thing that can truly quench our deepest thirst? • Why did Jesus reveal his identity as the Messiah to a social outcast instead of a religious leader? • Are you, like the Samaritan woman, trying to fill your life with things that will never satisfy? Join us as we explore this powerful story of grace, reminding us that no matter your past, the gospel is for all. John 4:1-26

From the time we're kids, we crave to be noticed. Applause. Recognition. Followers. But deep down… none of it ever fully satisfies. John the Baptist shows us a better way: “He must increase, but I must decrease.” (John 3:30) Real joy isn't found in making much of ourselves. It's found in making much of Jesus. If you're searching for meaning, hope, and peace—your search ends in Him. - John 3:22-36 Ready to discover more about Jesus or FaithBridge? https://www.faithbridgenh.org/discover

Are you searching for real hope? Ever wondered what it truly means to “believe in the Son”? Why is John 3:16 the most famous verse in the Bible—and what does it mean for you today? Today we'll discuss the deeper meaning behind John 3:16 and its promise of eternal life. Discover how God's love isn't just a feeling, but an action—giving His Son so you can have relationship with Him. What are we really saved from? Can anyone be too far gone for God's love? Is there more to life than just surviving? Listen as we explore how faith in Jesus brings forgiveness, purpose, and hope—no matter your past. If you're seeking answers, this message invites you to step into the light and experience the life God offers. Key Takeaway: God's love is for you. Eternal life is a gift—will you believe in the Son?

Do you ever feel like something's missing—like you're living, but not really alive? What if the change you need isn't external, but a total rebirth from within? In this episode, we unpack the conversation between Jesus and Nicodemus in John 3:1–15, where Jesus introduces the life-altering concept of being born again. It's not about being better behaved or more religious — it's about receiving new life through Jesus Christ. We're reminded that salvation isn't earned; it's given — through the cleansing work of the Spirit and the righteousness of Christ. Like the wind, God's Spirit moves freely and powerfully, inviting us into a life of deep transformation and bold faith. Have you experienced that kind of new beginning?

Have you ever felt like your faith has gotten cluttered? Like something's off, but you can't quite name it? What if part of following Jesus means letting Him disrupt your comfort to restore your focus? In this episode, we explore a powerful moment from Jesus' life that reveals His passion for pure worship and His mission to transform hearts. We're challenged to examine the noise, distractions, and self-serving habits that may be crowding out God's presence in our lives. Jesus isn't interested in surface-level religion — He wants to reshape us from the inside out. Are you ready to let Him? John 2:13-25

Feeling empty? Worn out? Wondering where God is in the silence? What if your emptiness is exactly where Jesus wants to work? Today we look at Jesus' first miracle in John 2 — turning water into wine. It's not just about a party; it's about transformation. Jesus doesn't just change circumstances — He changes lives. Discover what happens when we bring our struggles, addictions, and doubts to Him and obey, even when it doesn't make sense. What are you holding back from His transforming power?

Who are you—really? It's one of life's biggest questions, and people spend decades chasing the answer. Some go on a journey to “find themselves,” only to realize the search leads nowhere. Teens often try to copy trends and celebrities, hoping it will reveal their identity. Adults may hit a midlife crisis, and seniors sometimes wrestle with regret, wondering if they ever truly knew who they were. But what if we're asking the wrong question? Today Pastor Rich explores how the key to discovering who you are begins with understanding who Jesus is. Through the powerful story of John the Baptist's encounter with Jesus, we'll uncover how identity is rooted not in self-discovery—but in Christ. John 1:19-34

In this episode John Sifferman explores how lives were changed by a simple invitation to follow Jesus. From John the Baptist's declaration to Andrew's bold step of faith, we watch as one encounter leads to another—drawing people closer to Christ. If you've ever wondered what it means to know Jesus personally, this message invites you to take that first step. Discover how the journey begins, and how it just might change everything. John 1:35-51

What would you do if you were given 4 million dollars slowly over a period of 40 years, with no strings attached? Would you invest it or save it? Would you use it to buy large ticket items? Most of us would come up with an intentional plan because 4 million is a lot of money. However, are you aware that this is reality for most of us? If you make between $50,000 and $100,000 per year you will earn 2-4 million dollars in 40 years. The real question is what will we have to show for it? This morning Gabe Bult from our leadership team will teach us how God instructs us to manage our money, time and attention from Matthew 25:14-30.

Have you ever spent time around someone who was really passionate about something, like a sport's team, a diet choice that has changed their life, or new grandparents? It becomes obvious very quickly what they are excited about - they simply can't help but talk about it. In our sermon today, Roger Morby (from our Leadership Team) shares from John 1:6-18 about John the Baptist who's sole mission in life was to point others to Jesus, then get out of the way. What does your life point to? What would others say is most important to you? John 1:6-18

Today we begin a journey through the Gospel of John, one of the twelve apostles. In John 1:1-5, we're reminded that Jesus is God. There was never a time that He did not exist. We will see Jesus' role in creation, highlighting that everything belongs to Him. This realization calls us to live as stewards of what God has given us, recognizing His lordship over all aspects of our lives. He is a light shining in the darkness of our world and our lives. We must let His light shine through us, no matter how dark things get. John 1:1-5

In his short letter, Jude (the 1/2 brother of Christ) gives us instructions on how to live as obedient followers of Christ. Today, Pastor Rich will discuss how we can effectively carry the good news of salvation to those who need to hear. Jude

Throughout the Northeast, Ohio & Kentucky you can find Shaker museums. These museums are all that remains of a utopian, religious society that was active during the 18th and 19th centuries. This group preached total celibacy and eventually died out. God's people are always one generation away from extinction. Each generation is responsible to reach the next one. We, as flawed humans, are prone to failure - so the fact that God's church has existed over all these years is a testimony to God's faithfulness and power. Today Pastor Rich will discuss how each of us are responsible for making a choice of faith. What will your choice be? Joshua 24:14-33

At a job interview, the prospective employer wants to know your work history, your skills and abilities. The one being interviewed is being evaluated on how he acted previously. Today, Pastor Rich will show from Joshua 24 that since God has been faithful in the past, He will be faithful today and in the future. He is Lord over your family, Lord over rulers, Lord over nature, Lord of all. Even in the middle of pain and hardship you can depend on God. Joshua 24:1-13

The state motto of NH is taken from a famous quote by Revolutionary General John Stark "Live free or die, for death is not the worst of all evils." John Stark, along with many others fighting during the American Revolution realized that there were certain things that were worth the sacrificing your life. In their eyes, death was better than not being free. Today Pastor Rich will share Joshua's last words that he gave the Israelites before passing away. Joshua 23

Has there been a time in your life that you were right on the edge of disaster? Maybe that disaster was the result of your mistakes, or perhaps it occurred outside of your control. God uses these times of near crisis to strengthen us. In today's message, Pastor Rich will discuss how the Israelites nearly started a civil war over mistaken motives. Joshua 21:45 - 22:34

Have you ever done something you instantly regretted? Have your actions caused physical or emotional harm to someone else? Did you make a mistake while driving that caused an accident? Even though you deeply regret the action, the sincerest apology won't take away the hurt and pain you caused. Today, Pastor Rich will discuss justice & reconciliation as he discusses the cities of refuge. Joshua 20

Have you ever had to wait for something? Not so easy is it. Most of us want things as soon as possible. Sometimes God calls us to wait for His will. Today, Pastor Rich will look at Caleb's faithfulness to wait 45 years for the fulfillment of God's promises. Joshua 14:6-15, Numbers 14:30-38

Why are you listening today? Are you seeking God secretly hoping no one notices? Are you seeking God merely because you think you have to? Are you here completely by accident? Today as Pastor Rich discusses Jesus' rising from the dead and his appearances to men and women, may Jesus make Himself known to you through the Bible, through prayer and through this podcast. 1 Corinthians 15

Put yourself in the place of the Israelites on that first Palm Sunday as Jesus is riding into Jerusalem on a donkey. What would your response be? How about today? What is your response to Jesus, the King? Are you all in, fully committed to Him and His mission? Are you letting the worries of this life distract and pull you away? Perhaps you're antagonistic, and want nothing to do with Jesus. Check yourself - how are you responding to the King? Matthew 21

Life can be a battle. As we fight through the battles of life, how can we live well and live wisely? Today, Pastor Rich will share some lessons that Joshua, leader of Israel discovered as he led the Israelites to take possession of the land God had promised them. Joshua 10-11

Have you ever made a decision, then sought God's wisdom afterwards - only to discover you made the wrong decision? We might do this because we're in too big of a hurry to stop and seek the Lord. Sometimes, we always say yes so that we don't have to disappoint anyone. Maybe we make the wrong decision because our default answer is always no. How do we move past the regrets of making wrong decisions? Today, Pastor Rich will show what happened when Joshua and the leaders of Israel made a decision without asking the Lord. Joshua 9

How do you respond after a defeat, or a set back? How do you make progress and not let failure define you? Today, Pastor Rich will show how Israel had to overcome a major defeat and learn to depend on God again. Joshua 8

Sin affects everything and everyone around you. Today, Pastor Rich will discuss how one person's sin caused chaos and destruction for an entire nation. Joshua 7

If you've ever spent time in kids programming in church you've probably heard about the "Battle of Jericho" and how the "walls came tumbling down." What this story really shows is that God had a plan to accomplish and chose to use the Israelites to be part of His plan. Today, Pastor Rich will discuss how to look for God's plan and be a part of what He is doing. There might be barriers and obstacles that God allows in order to get our attention - causing us to look and see where God is working. When life is difficult, we are more likely to seek God. Joshua 6