Flatirons Community Church Audio Podcast

Ever feel like your family's mess disqualifies you from God's best?Carl kicks off House of Dysfunction by owning the chaos in his own family, from plastic-covered couches to Haitian Thanksgiving drama. But it's not just laughs. He walks us through the messy, powerful story of Rahab, a woman whose past screamed “disqualified” yet whose faith changed everything. This is a message for anyone who feels like their story is too broken, their choices too flawed. Grace lives in the places we least expect—right in the middle of our dysfunction.Rahab's story is proof: God doesn't wait for perfection, He looks for surrender. Her scarlet cord wasn't just a rescue sign, it was a declaration: grace is in this house. If you're tired of being stuck in generational brokenness, Rahab's faith shows the way out. This is a raw, honest call to stop playing it safe, tie your cord, and step boldly into a better legacy.

This weekend, we wrestled with one of the most human questions imaginable: what will our bodies, minds, and relationships be like in heaven? Jesse and the team got real about scars—both physical and emotional—and how the hope of resurrection gives new meaning to suffering. With stories like Jackson and Glenn's, we saw how healing in heaven isn't just physical; it's deeply relational and redemptive. Heaven isn't about perfection as we define it—it's about presence. And when we see Jesus, nothing else will matter.Our earthly struggles with comparison, sickness, and even the American dream reveal a deeper longing: to be fully known, fully healed, and fully united with God and others. In heaven, insecurities vanish. Scars from suffering become symbols of glory. We'll walk free, restored not only in body but in soul, finally able to say to those who loved us: “I saw it all.” And in Jesus' presence, even our deepest questions will fade into worship.

What if Heaven is better than you ever imagined—so good you don't even have the words?This week, we explore what the Bible actually says about heaven, not just myths or cartoons, but a place of healing, wholeness, and unimaginable joy. From the scars we carry to the deepest longings we chase, Jesus doesn't just promise to make things new; He promises to make them better. Jim walks us through our longing for real fulfillment and why the best moments in life are just a shadow of what's to come.Heaven isn't a downgrade from Earth; it's the full upgrade. Think beauty, intimacy, joy, and peace without limits. You'll be healed. You'll be whole. You'll be fully known and loved by the One who made you. Every scar that tells a story of faithfulness won't be erased—they'll shine with glory.

In this deeply moving episode, Pastor Jesse continues our series on Heaven — not as a distant theological concept, but as a living hope that shapes how we live today.We explore the reality of eternity, the nature of judgment, and what Scripture says about the current Heaven, the eternal Heaven, and yes — even a bit about Hell. But more than that, we open up about the personal hopes we carry for Heaven, including a powerful reflection on what it means to feel like our loved ones are still with us, just in a different dimension."What I want in Heaven is just to know He saw that... that even though it doesn't feel like we're experiencing it together right now, we are — just in different dimensions."This conversation is a reminder that talking about Heaven isn't just about the future — it's about living with intentionand purpose now. Whether it's how we parent, how we love, or how we forgive, eternity shapes today.

What if facing death is the only way to finally live?Most people spend their lives avoiding the thought of dying—but what if that's where real clarity comes from? In this honest and hope-filled message, we wrestle with the question “What happens when you die?”—through personal story, Jesus' final moments on the cross, and the raw truth about heaven and hell. This isn't scare-tactic religion. It's an invitation to face reality, find purpose, and live fully now.

In Episode 1 of our Heaven Limited Series, we unpack what the Bible actually says about heaven, not pop culture myths, not Sunday school clouds, but the real deal. Pastor Jesse shows how Scripture paints a picture of heaven not as an escape from earth, but as God's plan to restore it. If you've ever felt like this world doesn't fit? Like success, stuff, or survival mode just isn't cutting it? Then this conversation is for you.Subscribe to stay caught up on this series' releases: https://www.youtube.com/@FlatironsWe explore how heaven and earth were once united, how sin split them apart, and how Jesus is bringing them back together. You'll learn what “present heaven” is, what the Bible says about eternal life, and why your longing for something more might actually be your soul remembering home.

What if the emptiness you feel isn't because you're doing life wrong, but because you're expecting earth to deliver what only heaven can?We're kicking off Heaven Week 1 by rethinking everything we thought we knew about the afterlife. Most of us don't have time to think about heaven—we're just trying to get through the week. But what if a right view of heaven could radically change the way we live right now? What if the soul-deep ache we carry is a sign that we were made for more than just this world?This message challenges the idea that heaven is just something to deal with when we die. Drawing from Hebrews 11, Philippians 3, and CS Lewis, we uncover how a deep hope in heaven reshapes how we parent, grieve, hustle, forgive, and live. We're not here to escape the world—we're here to bring heaven into it, one faithful act at a time. Because this world isn't our home. And when we live like heaven is real, it changes everything.

Are you loving the people in your life as well as they need you to? This past weekend, Jim Burgen challenged Flatirons with a bold call: stop playing it safe, and start loving like Jesus. Whether it's your spouse, your kid, a coworker, or a friend—you're being invited into a summer of intentional, no-strings-attached love. Not the kind that waits for a return or assumes “they already know,” but the kind that shows up—like Jesus did. Real love doesn't assume; it assures. And this summer, we're all on assignment.

What if the freedom you're chasing won't come unless you fight for it?This week's Behind Closed Doors dives into Braveheart—not just the movie, but the heart behind it. Jim unpacks how one of history's most iconic films mirrors the reality of men growing up without fathers, and how a good man stepping in can change everything. Through the story of William Wallace, we get a powerful look at courage, sacrifice, and the cost of real freedom—especially for those still carrying the weight of old chains.Wallace's fight for Scotland's freedom parallels the fight every man faces—for his integrity, his family, his soul. Forge, our new mentorship initiative, is how we start pushing back against fatherlessness right here, right now. Whether you're a single mom praying for help or a man ready to lead, this talk makes it clear: the time is now. Choose to fight. Choose freedom.

What if joy doesn't mean “being happy”? What if joy is what carries you through the pain?This powerful message uses Pixar's Inside Out to unpack a grown-up truth: joy and sadness are not enemies—they're partners in navigating the real woods of life. When everything in Riley's world falls apart, Joy learns a hard lesson: real joy comes through sadness, not by avoiding it. In the same way, the Bible commands us not to “be happy” all the time, but to rejoice—to choose confidence that Jesus is still working, even in the darkest places of our lives.This isn't just a kid's movie. This is a soul check. And the faith shift in this message is deep: joy isn't faking a smile through the pain—it's trusting Jesus hasn't walked out on you. Real joy is grown-up joy. It knows heartbreak. It leans on Jesus. And it learns that joy and sadness don't cancel each other out—they walk hand-in-hand.

What if the freedom you're chasing won't come unless you fight for it?This week's Behind Closed Doors dives into Braveheart—not just the movie, but the heart behind it. Jim unpacks how one of history's most iconic films mirrors the reality of men growing up without fathers, and how a good man stepping in can change everything. Through the story of William Wallace, we get a powerful look at courage, sacrifice, and the cost of real freedom—especially for those still carrying the weight of old chains.Wallace's fight for Scotland's freedom parallels the fight every man faces—for his integrity, his family, his soul. Forge, our new mentorship initiative, is how we start pushing back against fatherlessness right here, right now. Whether you're a single mom praying for help or a man ready to lead, this talk makes it clear: the time is now. Choose to fight. Choose freedom.

What if joy doesn't mean “being happy”? What if joy is what carries you through the pain?This powerful message uses Pixar's Inside Out to unpack a grown-up truth: joy and sadness are not enemies—they're partners in navigating the real woods of life. When everything in Riley's world falls apart, Joy learns a hard lesson: real joy comes through sadness, not by avoiding it. In the same way, the Bible commands us not to “be happy” all the time, but to rejoice—to choose confidence that Jesus is still working, even in the darkest places of our lives.This isn't just a kid's movie. This is a soul check. And the faith shift in this message is deep: joy isn't faking a smile through the pain—it's trusting Jesus hasn't walked out on you. Real joy is grown-up joy. It knows heartbreak. It leans on Jesus. And it learns that joy and sadness don't cancel each other out—they walk hand-in-hand.

What if joy doesn't mean “being happy”? What if joy is what carries you through the pain?This powerful message uses Pixar's Inside Out to unpack a grown-up truth: joy and sadness are not enemies—they're partners in navigating the real woods of life. When everything in Riley's world falls apart, Joy learns a hard lesson: real joy comes through sadness, not by avoiding it. In the same way, the Bible commands us not to “be happy” all the time, but to rejoice—to choose confidence that Jesus is still working, even in the darkest places of our lives.

Have you ever wanted to save a loved one from making the wrong choice? Or maybe control a dynamic that was going differently than how you wanted it to? In today's message, Jim reviews the movie Beautiful Boy and connects it to our lives, and encourages us to change our approach to some of life's most significant challenges by relying on God to do what only he can do.

Are you letting your past fly your future?This week, we kicked off At The Movies with Top Gun Maverick—and it's way more than jets and adrenaline. Jim Burgen unpacked how guilt, shame, pride, and fear keep us stuck living a small, wounded life. Maverick's struggle mirrors ours: you can have all the skills in the world and still be haunted by what you haven't surrendered. Through Jesus, we can let go of the wreckage and finally live free, forgiven, and on mission.

What if the freedom you're chasing won't come unless you fight for it?This week's Behind Closed Doors dives into Braveheart—not just the movie, but the heart behind it. Jim unpacks how one of history's most iconic films mirrors the reality of men growing up without fathers, and how a good man stepping in can change everything. Through the story of William Wallace, we get a powerful look at courage, sacrifice, and the cost of real freedom—especially for those still carrying the weight of old chains.Wallace's fight for Scotland's freedom parallels the fight every man faces—for his integrity, his family, his soul. Forge, our new mentorship initiative, is how we start pushing back against fatherlessness right here, right now. Whether you're a single mom praying for help or a man ready to lead, this talk makes it clear: the time is now. Choose to fight. Choose freedom.

Ever felt like you've gone too far to be forgiven?This Easter message from Jim Burgen hits deep—because it's for the guy who didn't mean to get lost, the one who got dropped, and the one who flat-out chose the wrong path. Through the stories of the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the lost son, Jesus makes one thing clear: no matter how you got lost, He's coming for you—not to shame you, but to carry you home. If you're stuck in your own version of the outhouse, this is your rescue story.What changed? Jesus didn't wait for us to get our act together. He met us in the mess—before the speech, before the apology, before the clean-up. Grace comes first. Whether you wandered off, got thrown away, or ran headfirst into the gutter, Jesus is still scanning the horizon for your return. And when you turn around, there's no lecture… just a robe, a ring, a feast—and a Father who calls you son again.

What if the ancient Passover meal has always been pointing to Jesus? In this powerful Communion Week message, we connect the dots between the first Passover in Egypt, the crucifixion of Jesus, and the spiritual battle still raging today. From Moses to the Upper Room, we unpack how the blood of a lamb became the ultimate rescue plan. Communion isn't just a tradition—it's a declaration of freedom, victory, and identity in Christ. Ready to see the cross through fresh eyes? Let's go there.

What are you still waiting for before you trust Jesus? In this message leading up to Easter, we unpack Jesus' confrontation with the religious elite in Matthew 12 and his bold claim that only one sign is enough: his resurrection. It's not about rule-following or demanding proof—it's about surrender. If you're stuck in doubt, frustrated with brokenness, or just on the fence, Jesus' death and resurrection offer the only foundation strong enough to build your life on. Start praying, “I believe; help my unbelief,” and see where that road leads.

What did Jesus really mean in the Sermon on the Mount—and why does it still challenge everything we think about God, faith, and who's invited into His Kingdom? In this deep dive into the Sermon on the Mount, we walk through what Jesus really meant when He said the Kingdom of God is near—and why it changes everything. From who's “in,” to how we live, to what our lives are producing, Jesus flips religious thinking on its head. This isn't about behavior modification—it's about becoming a new kind of person. So, here's the question: What's the one thing Jesus is asking you to do with this truth?

What do you do when forgiveness feels like betrayal? In this powerful message, Ben tackles one of Jesus' most uncomfortable teachings: radical, no-limits forgiveness—even when the wounds are deep. Using the Parable of the Unmerciful Servant, we wrestle with justice, pain, anger, and whether forgiving someone means letting them off the hook. The answer? Forgiveness isn't about forgetting or excusing—it's about trusting God to settle accounts so we can finally walk in freedom. If you're tired of the bitterness cycle, this might be your turning point.

Who is your neighbor, and what does it really mean to love them? Guest speaker JT Riley from Local Point Church in North Carolina unpacks Luke 10:25-37, where Jesus challenges us to move beyond self-preservation and take real action. Loving others means putting them first, showing mercy, being hospitable, and living generously. So, who is the Holy Spirit putting on your heart right now? Will you obey, or will you walk away? And what's your next step in receiving the love of Jesus?

What's your life really about? Jesus makes it clear—only what's invested in God's kingdom lasts. In this parable, He lays out a challenge: everything we have—money, influence, time—has been entrusted to us by God. And one day, He'll ask what we did with it. Were we faithful, or did we waste it? This isn't about guilt; it's about perspective. Your life is training for something bigger. What you do now determines what God can trust you with next. So, what are you doing with what He's given you?

What's your life really about? Jesus tells two stories—one about a rich young fool who hoarded everything for himself and lost it all, and another about a rich young ruler who walked away sad because he couldn't let go of his wealth.But what if that same man later gave it all away and changed the world? The truth is, what you trust in—your wealth, your plans, or Jesus—determines everything. If your life ended today, what would it have been about? Maybe it's time for a shift. Are you open to that?

Why aren't we experiencing the full, abundant life Jesus promised? It's not because the Bible is too hard to understand. It's not because of our circumstances. It's because we don't want to. Jesus' parable of the sower reveals the brutal truth—God's Word doesn't take root in our lives because we're too distracted, too stubborn, or too consumed by money and success. So, what's standing in your way? Is your heart ready to receive what God is offering? Watch as we unpack what it really means to live a “with God” kind of life—starting today.

Jesus didn't waste words. He told stories that flipped people's view of God, life, and themselves upside down. But not everyone got it—some people leaned in, and others checked out. So, which one are you? This week, we're breaking down why Jesus used parables, how they expose what's really going on in our hearts, and why they still matter today. Don't miss this—your life might just depend on it.

Is Jesus really coming back? And if so, when? The Bible is clear—Jesus will return, but the exact timing remains unknown. Instead of getting caught up in predictions, the real question is: are you ready? This message breaks down what Scripture says about the signs of the times, the return of Christ, and what happens next. Whether you're skeptical, curious, or full of questions, this is a conversation you don't want to miss. So, if Jesus came back tomorrow, how would that change how you live today?

Who actually makes it to heaven? The answer might shock you. The Bible makes it clear—salvation isn't about being a “good person” or following a checklist of religious rules. It's about calling on the name of Jesus, submitting to His authority, and trusting in His grace. But how do you know if you're truly saved? Can you lose your salvation? And what does Jesus say about who goes to heaven? In this message, we break down what the Bible teaches about eternal life, faith, and the only way to be saved. Don't miss this!

Struggling to understand why life feels so unfair? You're not alone. For centuries, people have asked, Why do bad things happen to good people?—but maybe the real question is, Where is God in my pain? This message dives into what the Bible says about suffering, the story of Job, and how trusting God in hard times can bring purpose even in the darkest moments. If you're hurting, there is hope. God hasn't abandoned you—He's right there in the middle of your storm.

Ever felt like your marriage is beyond fixing? Maybe you're wondering, Is it ever going to get better? When can I leave? You're not alone. This message dives into one of the hardest questions we ask God—what do I do when my marriage feels hopeless? We'll talk about what God actually says about marriage, love, respect, and what it really takes to fight for something worth saving. If you're at a breaking point, this might be the conversation you need. Watch now.

What is God's will for your life? How do you know if you're on the right path? If you've ever wrestled with questions like What's my purpose? or Am I doing what God wants?, you're not alone. The truth is, God's will isn't a mystery—it's already in front of you. In this video, we'll break down how to stop overthinking, trust God's direction, and start living with clarity. 

Are you stuck in the cycle of trying to earn God's grace? Or maybe you've swung the other way, putting in no effort at all? What if grace wasn't opposed to effort—just earning? In this message, Ben Foote unpacks how he's learning (slowly) to rest in God's love while putting in real effort to follow Jesus. He shares two game-changing habits that have made his relationship with God more real than ever—no more grind, just grace. If you're tired of striving or coasting, this one's for you.

What's stealing your joy this Christmas? Joy isn't just about feeling happy—it's choosing to trust that God is with you, even in the messiest, hardest parts of life. This message explores how Mary, Joseph, and Zechariah navigated impossible circumstances with faith, gratitude, and trust in God's promises. Discover how to release control, focus on God's light, and find hope in His presence—even when life feels overwhelming. This could be the key to reclaiming joy in your life today.

What do you feel when you imagine standing face to face with God? Fear? Doubt? Hope? This message dives deep into the scandal of God's Kingdom—a Kingdom not built on being "good enough" but on Jesus' grace, available to everyone, right here, right now. From Mary's fear to Peter's doubt, we'll see how Jesus flips the script, offering life and purpose to those who think they're too broken to belong. The Kingdom of the Heavens is closer than you think—come on, get in.

Have you ever felt helpless—like you couldn't take another step on your own? Imagine willingly choosing that. Jesus, the King of Kings, did just that when He left the glory of heaven to be with us. He didn't just sympathize; He got in the battle with us—scars, pain, rejection, and all. This week, we dive into Matthew 1 and Philippians 2 to explore why Jesus' story begins with humility and what it means for our battles, our families, and our scars. The King is here, fighting for you.

What's stopping you from living out your faith boldly? In this powerful message, Jim Burgen unpacks what it means to engage in the Great Commission. Jesus didn't call us to sit on the sidelines—He called us to share our story and step into His mission. Discover how trusting Jesus, being led by the Spirit, and uniting in mission can transform your life and the lives of those around you. God uses ordinary people to bring extraordinary hope. Could He be calling you?

What does it mean to be united in mission? It's not just a slogan—it's a call to action for every follower of Jesus. In this message, Jim Burgen unpacks Flatirons Community Church's mission to bring the awesome life of Christ to a lost and broken world. Built on the truth that Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life, this message challenges us to step into purpose, serve others, and live out our faith. Are you ready to join the mission?

Are you simply admiring Jesus, or are you learning to live like Him? The difference between the two shapes everything about your faith journey. In this message, we break down the steps to becoming an apprentice of Jesus: moving from belief in Him to embodying the faith of Him. Through the 5 R's—Raise, Reevaluate, Reprioritize, Rebuild, and Replicate—you'll discover a clear pathway for spiritual growth, no matter where you are in your journey. Are you ready to take the next step?

Do you feel like you're living life with the faith of Jesus or just trying to get by? In this powerful message, Jim Burgen explores how many Christians put their faith in Jesus but never experience the full, abundant life He promised. Learn what it means to be Led by the Spirit—beyond mere belief and into true transformation. Discover how your faith can grow from trusting Jesus to embodying His faith, reshaping how you face every challenge. Are you ready to move from “playing not to lose” to living as more than a conqueror? Join Jim on this life-changing journey.

Ever wonder why a good God would let bad things happen? In this message, Jesse tackles this question head-on, sharing insights from Romans 8 and real-life examples of faith through adversity. We've all faced moments of pain, loss, or brokenness where trusting Jesus feels almost impossible. But what if God is using these trials to grow our faith? Join us as Jesse dives deep into what it truly means to rest in Jesus, not by avoiding struggles, but by letting Him transform us through them. This message is for anyone wrestling with life's hardest questions.

How can trusting Jesus change your life from the inside out? This week, we dive into the second pillar of faith at Flatirons: Trusting Jesus. Building on knowing God through His Word, we discover why trusting Jesus isn't just a one-time decision but a daily journey that reshapes everything—especially when life feels uncertain. Whether you're new to faith or have been following Jesus for years, this message will help you articulate why you believe and find hope in Christ's unwavering promise. Ready to build your life on a rock-solid foundation?

What happens when your values drift from what's most important? In part two of Know God Through His Word, we explore how our values shape every part of our lives—our choices, relationships, and even our politics. When we drift from God's truth, we often replace it with lies that lead to pain and confusion. The Bible isn't just a guide for private beliefs; it's the foundation for how we live publicly. Are you ready to let God's Word lead, even when it's tough?

What's the most important thing that drives your life? In this message, Jim unpacks the foundational values that shape everything we do as individuals and as a church. He emphasizes that while many things may seem important, not all carry equal weight. Through the lens of Romans, we explore how knowing God through His Word is the first pillar—an essential truth that informs every part of our lives. It's not about rules; it's about a relationship, a life built on values that will still stand when the storms come.

Can your biggest struggles be the key to true freedom? Dr. Crawford Lorritz dives deep into the transformative power of forgiveness, drawing lessons from the lives of Moses and Paul. He explains how facing our brokenness isn't just about pain—it's the pathway to deliverance and a richer connection with God. Learn why embracing your flaws can lead you to genuine healing and how letting go of past hurts can set you free. Ready to discover the true power behind forgiveness? Watch now to start your journey.

Do you feel the pressure to get parenting "right"? Let's be honest—none of us truly know what we're doing, and that's okay. This talk dives deep into the difference between being an owner versus an ambassador in our kids' lives. Are we trying to control everything, or are we stewarding what's ultimately God's? We explore the Shema and how it impacts our approach to parenting—our call to model faith, not perfection. The goal isn't perfect kids; it's raising followers of Jesus by showing them what true faith looks like through both our successes and our stumbles.

s your marriage a tug of war, or are you on the same team? In this message, we explore how tension in marriage isn't a sign that something's wrong but rather a healthy design by God. Drawing from Genesis 2 and practical life examples, this talk dives into how couples can shift from competing against each other to working together. By moving from selfishness to selflessness, we can build marriages rooted in grace, complementing differences and calling each other to higher standards. Ready to fight together, not against each other?