Friends Church Yorba Linda

What does it mean to truly fear God, and why is that the starting point for wisdom? In this message launching the Ancient Wisdom in Modern Times series, we open Proverbs 1 and discover that the fear of the Lord is not about being terrified of God, but standing in awe of Him in a way that changes how we live. This sermon explores the difference between knowledge and wisdom, why God's Word is meant to transform more than just our thinking, and how misplaced fear of people, failure, or opinion can keep us from living freely. If you've been drifting, negotiating with God's truth, or needing direction for real life decisions, this teaching is a clear call to pursue wisdom, obey God wholeheartedly, and build your life on what is actually true.New to Friends Church? We're so glad you're here!We stream live every week: SUNDAY 9A / 11A PT

Why does Easter matter, and why should it matter to you personally? In this powerful resurrection message, we look at 1 Corinthians 15 and the heart of the Christian faith: Jesus Christ died for our sins, was buried, and rose again on the third day. This sermon unpacks why everyone lives by faith in something, why the resurrection is not just a religious idea but a history-shaping event, and why if Jesus really rose from the dead, it changes everything about sin, death, hope, and your future. If you've ever wondered whether the resurrection is believable, or whether God could really love and forgive you, this message is a direct invitation to consider the evidence, take a step of faith, and discover the new life only Jesus can give.New to Friends Church? We're so glad you're here!We stream live every week:SUNDAY 9A / 11A PT

Is Jesus really worth everything? In this powerful Good Friday message from Hebrews 9–10, we see why weary, persecuted believers were urged to keep trusting Christ: because Jesus is not just another priest or sacrifice, He is the great High Priest and the Lamb of God who fully accomplished what no other sacrifice ever could. He lived for us, died for us, and even now lives to intercede for us. This sermon shows the breathtaking meaning of the torn veil, the finished work of the cross, and the ongoing ministry of Jesus on our behalf. If you have ever struggled with fear, guilt, doubt, or the question of whether following Jesus is really worth it, this message points you back to the sufficiency of Christ.

What is your life really centered on? As Holy Week begins, this message invites us to refocus on what matters most: Jesus, His cross, and His kingdom. Looking at Palm Sunday through Matthew 21, Luke 18, and Luke 19, we see the shocking tension at the heart of the gospel — the Messiah arrives as King, but He rides in with humility, headed toward suffering and the cross. This sermon unpacks why Jesus' triumph is unlike worldly triumph, why discipleship always includes cross-bearing, and why true life is found not in self-protection but in following Christ all the way. If you need a reset for Holy Week, this message will help you fix your eyes on Jesus again.

What if the shame you've been carrying doesn't have to define you anymore? In this message from the Made New series, we walk through Jesus' encounter with the woman at the well in John 4 and see how He meets people in their deepest pain, not to condemn them, but to heal them. Shame tells you to hide, stay silent, and keep carrying the weight of your past. Jesus offers something completely different: living water, a new identity, and freedom that rewrites your story. If you've ever felt disqualified, exposed, or stuck under the weight of regret, this sermon is a powerful reminder that because of Jesus, the shame that once silenced you can become a testimony that now speaks through you.

What does real freedom actually look like? In this message, we explore Jesus' declaration in Luke 4 that He came “to proclaim freedom for the captives.” For centuries, God's people lived under oppression and longed for a Messiah who would bring liberation. But Jesus reveals that our deepest captivity isn't political or external, it's the bondage of sin in our own hearts. The good news of the gospel is that Jesus came to set us free: free from sin's penalty, free from its power, and ultimately free from its presence. Through His death and resurrection, Christ gives us true freedom, freedom to know God, walk in righteousness, and live without fear of others, the future, or even death.

What does it really mean to be adopted by God? In this message from the Made New series, we explore one of the most powerful identity truths in Scripture: if you are in Christ, you are a child of God. Adoption doesn't just change your present identity — it secures your eternal future. Through John 1, Romans 8, and Ephesians 1, this sermon shows how God gives us a new position, a new relationship, and a new identity in His family. Whether your experience with fatherhood brings warmth or pain, this message points to the perfect love of a heavenly Father who chose you, welcomes you, and calls you His own.New to Friends Church? We're so glad you're here!We stream live every week:SUNDAY 9A / 11A PTSubscribe to The Friends Church YouTube channel to watch this message again later this week!Website: https://www.friends.churchInstagram:   / friendschurch  

Series: Made New: BeautifulKey Verses: 1 Peter 2:9-12, Matthew 5:16, Romans 15:13Teaching Pastor: Matthew CorkMarch 1st, 2026_____________________________New to Friends Church? We're so glad you're here!We stream live every week:SUNDAY 9A / 11A PTSubscribe to The Friends Church YouTube channel to watch this message again later this week!Website: https://www.friends.churchInstagram:   / friendschurch  

Series: Made New: KnownKey Verses: Pslams 139:1-18Teaching Pastor: Erik ThoennesFebruary 22nd, 2026_____________________________New to Friends Church? We're so glad you're here!We stream live every week:SUNDAY 9A / 11A PTSubscribe to The Friends Church YouTube channel to watch this message again later this week!Website: https://www.friends.churchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/friendschurch

Series: Made New: LoveKey Verses: 1 John 4:8, John 13:1-5, John 13:12-17, 2 Corinthians 5:14-15Teaching Pastor: Matthew CorkFebruary 15th, 2026_____________________________New to Friends Church? We're so glad you're here!We stream live every week:SUNDAY 9A / 11A PTSubscribe to The Friends Church YouTube channel to watch this message again later this week!Website: https://www.friends.churchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/friendschurch

Series: Made New: Image BearerKey Verses: Matthew 12, Matthew 22, Proverbs 2, Genesis 1:26-27, Genesis 5:1-2, Teaching Pastor: Erik ThoennesFebruary 8th, 2026_____________________________New to Friends Church? We're so glad you're here!We stream live every week:SUNDAY 9A / 11A PTSubscribe to The Friends Church YouTube channel to watch this message again later this week!Website: https://www.friends.churchInstagram:  

Series: Made New: TransformedKey Verse: Romans 12Teaching Pastor: Erik ThoennesFebruary 1st, 2026_____________________________New to Friends Church? We're so glad you're here!We stream live every week:SUNDAY 9A / 11A PTSubscribe to The Friends Church YouTube channel to watch this message again later this week!Website: https://www.friends.churchInstagram:   / friendschurch  

Series: Let's Talk About it - Is It Okay to Doubt?Key Verse: John 11Teaching Pastor: Matthew CorkJanuary 25th, 2026_____________________________New to Friends Church? We're so glad you're here!We stream live every week:SUNDAY 9A / 11A PTSubscribe to The Friends Church YouTube channel to watch this message again later this week!Website: https://www.friends.churchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/friendschurch

Series: Let's Talk About it - How Can a Good God Allow Suffering? Key Verse: John 11Teaching Pastor: Matthew CorkJanuary 18th, 2026_____________________________New to Friends Church? We're so glad you're here!We stream live every week:SUNDAY 9A / 11A PTSubscribe to The Friends Church YouTube channel to watch this message again later this week!Website: https://www.friends.churchInstagram:   / friendschurch  

Series: Let's Talk About it - Does Prayer Do Anything? Teaching Pastor: Matthew CorkJanuary 11th, 2026_____________________________New to Friends Church? We're so glad you're here!We stream live every week:SUNDAY 9A / 11A PTSubscribe to The Friends Church YouTube channel to watch this message again later this week!Website: https://www.friends.churchInstagram:   / friendschurch  

Series: Let's Talk About it - What is the evidence for the New Testament? Teaching Pastor: Dr. Sean McDowellJanuary 4th, 2026_____________________________New to Friends Church? We're so glad you're here!We stream live every week:SUNDAY 9A / 11A PTSubscribe to The Friends Church YouTube channel to watch this message again later this week!Website: https://www.friends.churchInstagram:   / friendschurch  

Series: Becoming More Like JesusTeaching Pastor: Bart ScharrerDecember 28th, 2025New to Friends Church? We're so glad you're here!We stream live every week:SUNDAY 9A / 11A PTSubscribe to The Friends Church YouTube channel to watch this message again later this week!Website: https://www.friends.churchInstagram:   / friendschurch  

Series: Wonder of ChristmasKey Verses: Isaiah 8:21-22, Isaiah 9:2,6-7, Matthew 2: 1-12, John 1: 9-12Teaching Pastor: Matthew CorkDecember 14th, 2025_____________________________New to Friends Church? We're so glad you're here!We stream live every week:SUNDAY 9A / 11A PTSubscribe to The Friends Church YouTube channel to watch this message again later this week!Website: https://www.friends.churchInstagram:   / friendschurch  

Series: Wonder of ChristmasKey Verses: Luke 1:76, Isaiah 7:14, Isaiah 9:2, Isiah 9:6Teaching Pastor: Erik ThoennesDecember 7th, 2025_____________________________New to Friends Church? We're so glad you're here!We stream live every week:SUNDAY 9A / 11A PTSubscribe to The Friends Church YouTube channel to watch this message again later this week!Website: https://www.friends.churchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/friendschurch

Series: Thanksgiving WeekendKey Verses: Colossians 1:28-29Teaching Pastor: Erik ThoennesNovember 30, 2025_____________________________New to Friends Church? We're so glad you're here!We stream live every week:SUNDAY 9A / 11A PTSubscribe to The Friends Church YouTube channel to watch this message again later this week!Website: https://www.friends.churchInstagram:   / friendschurch  

Series: Upside Down Kingdom FinaleKey Verses: Matthew 5Teaching Pastor: Matthew CorkNovember 23, 2025_____________________________New to Friends Church? We're so glad you're here!We stream live every week:SUNDAY 9A / 11A PTSubscribe to The Friends Church YouTube channel to watch this message again later this week!Website: https://www.friends.churchInstagram:   / friendschurch  

Series: Upside Down KingdomKey Verses: Matthew 5Teaching Pastor: Dr. Erik ThoennesNovember 16, 2025_____________________________New to Friends Church? We're so glad you're here!We stream live every week:SUNDAY 9A / 11A PTSubscribe to The Friends Church YouTube channel to watch this message again later this week!Website: https://www.friends.churchInstagram:   / friendschurch  

Series: Upside Down KingdomKey Verses: Matthew 5Teaching Pastor: Matthew CorkNovember 9, 2025_____________________________New to Friends Church? We're so glad you're here!We stream live every week:SUNDAY 9A / 11A PTSubscribe to The Friends Church YouTube channel to watch this message again later this week!Website: https://www.friends.churchInstagram:   / friendschurch  

Series: Upside Down KingdomKey Verses: Matthew 5Teaching Pastor: Matthew Cork November 2, 2025_____________________________New to Friends Church? We're so glad you're here!We stream live every week:SUNDAY 9A / 11A PTSubscribe to The Friends Church YouTube channel to watch this message again later this week!Website: https://www.friends.churchInstagram:   / friendschurch  

Series: Upside Down KingdomKey Verses: Matthew 5Teaching Pastor: Aaron OphaugOctober 26, 2025_____________________________New to Friends Church? We're so glad you're here!We stream live every week:SUNDAY 9A / 11A PTSubscribe to The Friends Church YouTube channel to watch this message again later this week!Website: https://www.friends.churchInstagram:   / friendschurch  

Series: Upside Down KingdomKey Verses: Matthew 5Teaching Pastor: Alexnader JamesOctober 19, 2025_____________________________New to Friends Church? We're so glad you're here!We stream live every week:SUNDAY 9A / 11A PTSubscribe to The Friends Church YouTube channel to watch this message again later this week!Website: https://www.friends.churchInstagram:   / friendschurch  

Series: Upside Down KingdomKey Verses: Matthew 5Teaching Pastor: Matthew CorkOctober 11, 2025_____________________________New to Friends Church? We're so glad you're here!We stream live every week:SUNDAY 9A / 11A PTSubscribe to The Friends Church YouTube channel to watch this message again later this week!Website: https://www.friends.churchInstagram:   / friendschurch  

Series: Upside Down KingdomKey Verses: Matthew 5Teaching Pastor: Erik ThoennesOctober 5, 2025_____________________________New to Friends Church? We're so glad you're here!We stream live every week:SUNDAY 9A / 11A PTSubscribe to The Friends Church YouTube channel to watch this message again later this week!Website: https://www.friends.churchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/friendschurch

Series: Upside Down KingdomKey Verses: Matthew 5Teaching Pastor: Matthew CorkSeptember 28, 2025_____________________________New to Friends Church? We're so glad you're here! We stream live every week:SUNDAY 9A / 11A PTSubscribe to The Friends Church YouTube channel to watch this message again later this week!Website: ⁠https://www.friends.church⁠Instagram: ⁠  / friendschurch  

Series: Upside Down KingdomKey Verses: Matthew 5Teaching Pastor: Erik ThoennesSeptember 21, 2025_____________________________New to Friends Church? We're so glad you're here!We stream live every week:SUNDAY 9A / 11A PTSubscribe to The Friends Church YouTube channel to watch this message again later this week!Website: https://www.friends.churchInstagram:   / friendschurch  

Series: Side by SideKey Verses: Luke 10:25-37Teaching Pastor: Matthew CorkSeptember 14, 2025_____________________________New to Friends Church? We're so glad you're here!We stream live every week:SUNDAY 9A / 11A PTSubscribe to The Friends Church YouTube channel to watch this message again later this week!Website: https://www.friends.churchInstagram:   / friendschurch  

GoSeries: Side by SideKey Verses: Luke 15Teaching Pastor: Erik ThoennesSeptember 7, 2025_____________________________New to Friends Church? We're so glad you're here!We stream live every week:SUNDAY 9A / 11A PTSubscribe to The Friends Church YouTube channel to watch this message again later this week!Website: https://www.friends.churchInstagram:   / friendschurch  

GatherSeries: Side by SideKey Verses: Mark 4:1-20Teaching Pastor: Matthew CorkAugust 31st, 2025New to Friends Church? We're so glad you're here!We stream live every week:SUNDAY 9A / 11A PTSubscribe to The Friends Church YouTube channel to watch this message again later this week!Website: ⁠https://www.friends.church⁠Instagram: ⁠  / friendschurch  

GatherSeries: Side by SideKey Verses: Mark 4:1-20Teaching Pastor: Matthew CorkAugust 24, 2025_____________________________New to Friends Church? We're so glad you're here!We stream live every week:SUNDAY 9A / 11A PTSubscribe to The Friends Church YouTube channel to watch this message again later this week!Website: https://www.friends.churchInstagram:   / friendschurch  

VBS WeekendSeries: Kingdom Academy VBSTeaching Pastor: Kyle ZimmermanKey Verses: 1 Peter 2:4-9July 27, 2025_____________________________New to Friends Church? We're so glad you're here!We stream live every week:SUNDAY 9A / 11A PTSubscribe to The Friends Church YouTube channel to watch this message again later this week!Website: https://www.friends.churchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/friendschurch

The God Who RenewsSeries: UNBROKENTeaching Pastor: Sean McdowellJuly 20, 2025_____________________________New to Friends Church? We're so glad you're here!We stream live every week:SUNDAY 9A / 11A PTSubscribe to The Friends Church YouTube channel to watch this message again later this week!Website: https://www.friends.churchInstagram:   / friendschurch  

The God Who ReignsSeries: UNBROKENTeaching Pastor: Matthew CorkJuly 13, 2025

The God Who LeadsSeries: UNBROKENKey Verses: Exodus 14:13-14; Exodus 19:4-6; Exodus 20:1-21; 2 Corinthians 1:20; Proverbs 1:7, 14:12, 16:25; Ephesians 5:5; Colossians 3:17; 1 Timothy 6:1; 1 John 5:2-5; Matthew 22:37-40; Galatians 3:24Teaching Pastor: Matthew CorkJuly 6, 2025

The God Who CallsSeries: UNBROKENKey Verses: Genesis 9:15-16; Genesis 12:1-3; Genesis 15:1-21; Isaiah 53:4-5; 2 Corinthians 1:20; Hebrews 6:13-15, 18-19a; James 2:19Teaching Pastor: Matthew CorkJune 29, 2025

The God Who PreservesSeries: UNBROKENKey Verses: Genesis 9:5-17; Genesis 1:1; Matthew 24:36-38; Romans 3:21-26; 1 John 1:9; Romans 8:32-24Teaching Pastor: Erik ThoennesJune 22, 2025

Father's Day At FriendsKey Verses: Matthew 20:28; Exodus 18:1, 13-24; Psalm 90:17Teaching Pastor: Matthew CorkJune 15, 2025

Build One Another UpSERIES: The One Another EffectKey Verses: Ephesians 4:23-32; James 1:19b-21; 2 Timothy 3:2-4; Ephesians 2:8-10; Psalm 133:1; Proverbs 12:18; Hebrews 12:14-15; Psalm 139:23-24Teaching Pastor: Matthew CorkJune 8, 2025

Grace For One AnotherSERIES: The One Another EffectKey Verses: Matthew 18:21-35Teaching Pastor: Sean McDowellJune 1, 2025

Pray for One AnotherSERIES: The One Another EffectKey Verses: Ephesians 6:10-18; John 10:10Teaching Pastor: Kyle ZimmermanMay 25, 2025

Forgiveness is FreedomSERIES: The One Another EffectKey Verses: Jonah 1:1-10Teaching Pastor: Alexander JamesMay 18, 2025

Mother's Day with FriendsKey Verses: Exodus 2:1-10; Exodus1:19, 22; Genesis 15:13-14; Hebrews 11:23; Acts 7:22Teaching Pastor: Matthew CorkMay 11, 2025

Boasting In The CrossSERIES: No StringsKey Verses: Galatians 6:9-18; Romans 8:5-6; 2 Corinthians 5:14-15; Galatians 5:5-6Teaching Pastor: Matthew CorkMay 4, 2025

Walking by the SpiritSERIES: No StringsKey Verses: Galatians 5:16-26; 2 Peter 1:3; Luke 4:1-2; Romans 8:11; Romans 8:1-2, 14-16Dr. Erik ThoennesApril 27, 2025