Harbor Church Podcast

We're diving into the deep end answering listeners' questions today, talking about the struggle of sexual identity in faith spaces - if God made everyone, why are some people born with different sexual preferences? Plus, Pastor Josh and Katie Rose tackle the ultimate head-scratcher: Is prayer a cosmic suggestion box, or is God's mind already made up?

It's easy to stay in the boat where it's safe, dry, and comfortable. But Jesus calls His followers to something more active: fishing. For people. Join with our missionary to South Africa, Blake Hunter, as we dive into Matthew 4 and Luke 15 to see why God goes to such great lengths to find what is lost. From the streets of Cape Town to a little girl named June, see how God can use one person's "fishing trip" to change generations - and how that person could be you.If you're new to Harbor or want to get connected in any way click this link to get your New Here gift, find upcoming events or get involved!https://harborchurch.com/connect

Let's be real: talking about money in church can be…tough. But what if God isn't after your cash, but your freedom? In this episode, Katie Rose and Pastor Josh tackle the "fear factor" of giving. They discuss why money has such a massive grip on our emotions and how to take that scary leap of generosity. Spoilers: God isn't a debt collector looking to punish you; He's a Dad who knows that holding on too tight is actually what's keeping us stressed.

What if the way you handle your money actually revealed how much you trust God? This message challenges the cultural norm of ownership and invites us into new possibilities around money and true freedom. This message helps us unpack the ways that giving God control of our finances opens the door to deeper trust, true contentment, and lasting freedom.If you're new to Harbor or want to get connected in any way click this link to get your New Here gift, find upcoming events or get involved!https://harborchurch.com/connect

What if the way you handle your money actually revealed how much you trust God? This message challenges the cultural norm of ownership and invites us into new possibilities around money and true freedom. This message helps us unpack the ways that giving God control of our finances opens the door to deeper trust, true contentment, and lasting freedom.If you're new to Harbor or want to get connected in any way click this link to get your New Here gift, find upcoming events or get involved!https://harborchurch.com/connect

Everywhere we look there's information, advertisements, questions, desire, and fear surrounding sex. But so much of our modern struggle with sexual identity stems from a fundamental misunderstanding of where our value comes from. Who are we, really? How do we tackle this topic with ourselves, with our children, and with the way we approach relationships? Join Katie Rose and Kaleigh as they talk about why churches have such a heard time dealing with the topic of sex, where we get it wrong, and what God has to say about the shame so many of us carry.

Our culture is obsessed with desire and self-expression, promising that total freedom leads to total fulfillment. But somehow we're lonelier and more confused than ever. What if the satisfaction you're looking for can't be found in a partner, a preference, or in your own pleasure? Pastor Josh is diving into the Biblical truth that God designed sex, and God designed you. His boundaries aren't barriers to your joy - they're the blueprints for it.If you're new to Harbor or want to get connected in any way click this link to get your New Here gift, find upcoming events or get involved!https://harborchurch.com/connect

We've all heard the Christian clichés: "Just pray about it," or "God won't give you more than you can handle." But what happens when you're trying to follow Jesus and your mind still feels like a battlefield?In this episode, Pastor Josh and Katie Rose are stripping away the mask of toxic positivity. We dive into the reality of mental health through a Gospel lens, discussing how God meets us in the trenches and the actual, practical weapons He's given us to take our thoughts captive. If you're tired of pretending you're okay, this one is for you.

You've been sending in your questions, and now it's time for some answers! Tune in to hear Pastor Josh and Katie Rose dig into the topics sent in by you, the listeners - knowing the difference between God's voice and our own heads, what it actually means to be a part of a church, and…did Jesus have a wife? If you've got a question you'd like answered, we want to hear it! Text them in to 508-500-6656 or email 

We're more anxious, overwhelmed, and exhausted than ever. Fortunately, what our Heavenly Father offers us isn't just psychological change but spiritual restoration. Join us in our "What If" sermon series to hear Pastor Ron Sears' take on this powerful question: What if God was at the center of all my thoughts, reactions, and decisions?If you're new to Harbor, have questions, or are looking to get connected in anyway, head to harborchurch.com/connect!

We're more anxious, overwhelmed, and exhausted than ever. Fortunately, what our Heavenly Father offers us isn't just psychological change but spiritual restoration. Join us in our "What If" sermon series as we explore this powerful question: What if God was at the center of all my thoughts, reactions, and decisions?If you're new to Harbor, have questions, or are looking to get connected in anyway, head to harborchurch.com/connect!

 Be honest - when people ask how you're doing, are you tempted to respond, “busy”? We all feel it. Full schedules, not enough time to do everything we'd like, and yet the obligations just keep coming. In today's episode, Pastor Josh and Katie Rose get real about the root behind our need to constantly be going. What if God has a better way that doesn't involve collapsing into bed every night wishing for a day off? 

Time is your most limited resource and how you spend it reveals who you trust. In this message, Pastor Josh challenges us to stop wearing “busy” like a badge and start seeing rest as a spiritual discipline, not a luxury. If you've been running on fumes, this is your reminder that real strength comes when your time and your trust is in God's hands.If you're new to Harbor or want to get connected in any way click this link to get your New Here gift, find upcoming events or get involved!https://harborchurch.com/connect

What if the biggest barrier between you and the life God has for you is your own disobedience? In this message, Pastor Josh challenges us to move from sentiment to substance, because surrender isn't the same as obedience. We may feel surrendered, but until we actually obey, we're still holding back. If Jesus isn't Lord of all, He isn't Lord at all.If you're new to Harbor or want to get connected in any way click this link to get your New Here gift, find upcoming events or get involved!https://harborchurch.com/connect

Let's be honest - most of us say "Thy will be done" while white-knuckling our way through each day. In this episode, Pastor Josh and Katie Rose are digging into the anatomy of control: why we crave it, how it's exhausting us, and what actually happens when we stop playing God. If you're ready for 2026 to actually be different, and to see some change that lasts beyond February, take a listen.

What if the best year of your life doesn't come from striving harder, but from surrendering deeper? In this message, Pastor Josh unpacks what it means to fully trust God's plan, release control, and let Him lead. You don't find God's will by discovering yourself; you find it by surrendering yourself.If you're new to Harbor or want to get connected in any way click this link to get your New Here gift, find upcoming events or get involved!https://harborchurch.com/connect

2025 was a year of ups, downs, and more than anything a display of God's faithfulness. Join Katie Rose and Pastor Josh for a time of reflection, sharing stories, and remembering God's goodness before we get into 2026.

Sometimes you start on a journey, only to find that God has different plans for you. In this message, Pastor Josh looks into what it means for us to have to take a different route than we intended. Hear about what true trust looks like - even in the face of unexpected detours.We're so glad you're joining us for this online only service, and can't wait to be back together in person next weekend. In the meantime, if you're new, have questions, or are looking to get connected in any way, click the link below!https://harborchurch.com/connect

If you've ever felt like you're behind in your journey with God, or like you missed a moment, this one's for you. Pastor Josh and Katie Rose dig into the idea of being behind in life, and how important it is to (like the wise men) have people traveling beside you.

Not to shake up your nativity scene, but the wisemen were late. Fortunately, all are welcome in the presence of Jesus, regardless of their timing. In this Christmas message, Pastor Josh reminds us that God isn't checking our timing, He's looking at our heart. Whether you're early, late, broken, or doubting, you still belong. God meets you where you are, and late worship is still powerful worship.If you're new to Harbor or want to get connected in any way click this link to get your New Here gift, find upcoming events or get involved!https://harborchurch.com/connect

Every good story has a bad guy….and all of our lives involve people that aren't always on our side (even if they think they are). So how to we deal with the naysayers? And what if the people who are working against us also happen to be people we love? Pastor Josh and Katie Rose talk through why we shouldn't be surprised that not everyone is cheering us on, and what Biblical boundaries actually look like.

Not everyone who's close to you is really for you. In this message, Pastor Josh unpacks the story of Herod and the wise men to reveal how “frenemies” can look supportive on the outside but be dangerous on the inside. Learn how to discern intentions, guard your heart, and follow God's voice above all else.If you're new to Harbor or want to get connected in any way click this link to get your New Here gift, find upcoming events or get involved!https://harborchurch.com/connect

What if the sacrifice God is calling you to isn't about your bank account, but your emotional life? In this episode, we dig deeper into the Biblical concept of "laying it at the feet of Jesus” - something the Wise Men did a couple thousand years ago with their gifts, and something that we still need to practice today. So what does practical, everyday, sacrificial discipleship look like? Pastor Josh and Katie Rose unpack the small but surprisingly difficult sacrifices they've had to make, and how it's completely changed the way they view God.

What does your worship really say about what you believe? The Magi's gifts weren't random; they reflected their understanding of who Jesus was. In this message, Pastor Josh unpacks how true worship always involves sacrifice. God measures giving by trust, not by amount. If you're new to Harbor or want to get connected in any way click this link to get your New Here gift, find upcoming events or get involved!https://harborchurch.com/connect

We're officially in Christmas mode at Harbor! This week, we're taking an intentional look at the journey of the Wise Men—twists, turns, and tests included—and what that story means for our own walk with God. Does following Him require leaving everything behind? Is He "testing" us from Heaven? Pastor Josh and Katie Rose sit down to tackle these challenging questions and more. From the Patriots to The Muppet Christmas Carol to the small habits that transformed their lives, tune in for a discussion designed to challenge and equip your faith this holiday season.

Great moves of God often begin with small steps of obedience. Just like the wise men and Abraham, faith requires action before clarity and movement before guidance. When we take the first, often uncomfortable, step in obedience, even without full understanding, God meets us in motion and uses our faith to impact others in ways we may never fully see.If you're new to Harbor or want to get connected in any way click this link to get your New Here gift, find upcoming events or get involved!https://harborchurch.com/connect

We get it, your calendar is full, your phone is glued to your hand, and somewhere in the middle of it all you wonder: how can I still be available to God and serve others when I barely have time for myself? This week Pastor Josh and Katie Rose talk through putting our faith into action, how not to be overwhelmed by every good cause that exists, and how to find time to say “yes” to God even in the busyness of life.

This message is a powerful reminder of the blessings we often overlook and the calling we all share. We all have an opportunity to live with gratitude, give generously, and reflect God's love in both word and action. Thankfulness and generosity are spiritual practices and acts of worship!If you're new to Harbor or want to get connected in any way click this link to get your New Here gift, find upcoming events or get involved!https://harborchurch.com/connect

Description: The last chapter of Ephesians is jam packed with info - dealing with parents, kids, bosses, employees, and the tools God has given us to face life from a spiritual standpoint. So what do we do when the authority figures in our lives don't act the way we'd hope? And how are we supposed to “armor up” when we'd rather just lie down? Katie Rose and Illise Titus chat about how we can still find a way to love God, love people, and stay on guard in the midst of busy lives and imperfect people.

We're closing out our series on Ephesians with a powerful message from our Production Director Chris Lingo on Ephesians 6. From spirit-filled relationships to spiritual warfare, Paul shows us how to love like a servant, live like a soldier, and last like a saint. Armor up, because the battle is real.If you'd like to follow along as we read Ephesians together, text “BIBLE” to 508-500-6656. You'll get a daily text with that morning's specific verses!If you're new to Harbor or want to get connected in any way click this link to get your New Here gift, find upcoming events or get involved!https://harborchurch.com/connect

We're closing out our series on Ephesians with a powerful message from Mashpee Campus Pastor Mike Avant on Ephesians 6. From spirit-filled relationships to spiritual warfare, Paul shows us how to love like a servant, live like a soldier, and last like a saint. Armor up, because the battle is real.If you'd like to follow along as we read Ephesians together, text “BIBLE” to 508-500-6656. You'll get a daily text with that morning's specific verses!If you're new to Harbor or want to get connected in any way click this link to get your New Here gift, find upcoming events or get involved!https://harborchurch.com/connect

The Bible says marriage is meant to be a living, breathing sermon about Christ and the Church. That can be a huge burden—or an incredible promise. Katie Rose sits down with Pastor Josh and Kaleigh to get honest about Ephesians 5, what it really looks like to submit to one another, and how we can all use our relationships (whether we're married or not) to ensure our time isn't wasted.If you're new to Harbor or want to get connected in any way click this link to get your New Here gift, find upcoming events or get involved!https://harborchurch.com/connect

This week, Pastor Josh & his wife Kaleigh discuss what it means and looks like to live lives that reflect Christ. As we talked about last week, the Gospel isn't something you learn as much as it's something you live. Spirit-filled living and sacrificial love transforms hearts and homes!If you'd like to follow along as we read Ephesians together, text “BIBLE” to 508-500-6656. You'll get a daily text with that morning's specific verses!If you're new to Harbor or want to get connected in any way click this link to get your New Here gift, find upcoming events or get involved!https://harborchurch.com/connect

The fourth chapter of the Book of Ephesians is all about spiritual maturity - but what does that even mean? How do I check myself when it comes to turning my beliefs into behaviors, and what does it look like to realign myself with God (and others) when I've drifted? Pastor Josh and Katie Rose sit down to talk through the Bible's blueprint for a stable faith walk, and why you might be feeling spiritually stuck in neutral.

Just like an orchestra pauses to tune to the same note before they begin, the church must align with the Gospel and the Holy Spirit to live in unity, grow in maturity, and walk in obedience. In this message, Pastor Josh unpacks Ephesians 4 and how the gospel isn't just something to learn, it's something to live! If you'd like to follow along as we read Ephesians together, text “BIBLE” to 508-500-6656. You'll get a daily text with that morning's specific verses!If you're new to Harbor or want to get connected in any way click this link to get your New Here gift, find upcoming events or get involved!https://harborchurch.com/connect

There's a lot of talk about the Holy Spirit: hearing, following, and some kind of power we have access to? Pastor Josh and Katie Rose sit down to set some things straight when it comes to God's Spirit, and how so many of us are missing out on the “unlimited resources” Paul writes about in Ephesians 3.If you're new to Harbor or want to get connected in any way click this link to get your New Here gift, find upcoming events or get involved!https://harborchurch.com/connect

As we continue our Ephesians sermon series we are in Chapter 3 this week, Pastor Josh reminds us that the mystery of the Gospel has been revealed, not just for our information but for our transformation. When you truly grasp how deeply God loves you, obedience stops feeling like obligation and starts to overflow as worship. It's not simply doctrine, but also a divine invitation to live in awe, gratitude, and empowered purpose.If you'd like to follow along as we read Ephesians together, text “BIBLE” to 508-500-6656. You'll get a daily text with that morning's specific verses!If you're new to Harbor or want to get connected in any way click this link to get your New Here gift, find upcoming events or get involved!https://harborchurch.com/connect

Faith isn't always neat. Pastor Josh and our new Campus Pastor Jimmy explore how obedience can feel risky, and why growth gets so messy. Jimmy shares how scary yeses, awkward faith steps, and divine detours turned into something bigger than he could have ever planned.If you're new to Harbor or want to get connected in any way click this link to get your New Here gift, find upcoming events or get involved!https://harborchurch.com/connect

What does it really mean to go from death to life? In this message from Ephesians 2, we are unpacking our condition without Christ, God's powerful intervention through grace, and the new identity and unity we receive through Jesus. If you've ever questioned your worth, your purpose, or your place in God's family, this message is for you.If you'd like to follow along as we read Ephesians together, text “BIBLE” to 508-500-6656. You'll get a daily text with that morning's specific verses!If you're new to Harbor or want to get connected in any way click this link to get your New Here gift, find upcoming events or get involved!https://harborchurch.com/connect

What does it really mean to go from death to life? In this message from Ephesians 2, we are unpacking our condition without Christ, God's powerful intervention through grace, and the new identity and unity we receive through Jesus. If you've ever questioned your worth, your purpose, or your place in God's family, this message is for you.If you'd like to follow along as we read Ephesians together, text “BIBLE” to 508-500-6656. You'll get a daily text with that morning's specific verses!If you're new to Harbor or want to get connected in any way click this link to get your New Here gift, find upcoming events or get involved!https://harborchurch.com/connect

Worship isn't always loud praise and joy—it's also honest sorrow. John and Kayli talk about the beauty of lament, bringing our pain before God, and how worship can still thrive in seasons of grief and unanswered prayers.If you're new to Harbor or want to get connected in any way click this link to get your New Here gift, find upcoming events or get involved!https://harborchurch.com/connect

Ever feel like something's missing, and everyone else seems to have it figured out? Here's the truth: God's given us all we need (and more than we realize), and He's laid it all out for us in the Bible. And we ALL have the chance to discover it for ourselves. Join us as we walk through the first chapter of Ephesians, and lean into a foundation where you can stop performing and finally find a true purpose.If you'd like to follow along as we read Ephesians together, text “BIBLE” to 508-500-6656. You'll get a daily text with that morning's specific verses!If you're new to Harbor or want to get connected in any way click this link to get your New Here gift, find upcoming events or get involved!https://harborchurch.com/connect

It's been nine years since Harbor Church started, and God has done incredible things every step of the way. Pastor Josh and Katie Rose take a little trip down memory lane to remember what it looks like to take a real leap of faith, and dig into how churches and individuals can stay on mission, even after all these years.

This weekend, as we celebrate 9 years of Harbor Church, we're remembering the reason we started: to help people discover the eternity-changing forgiveness only Jesus can offer. Sin doesn't just stain us, it separates us, weighs us down, and damages everything in our lives. Jesus came to change all of that. This is a message for anyone who's tired of carrying shame and ready to be set free by grace.If you're new to Harbor or want to get connected in any way click this link to get your New Here gift, find upcoming events or get involved!https://harborchurch.com/connect

There's no denying that we're surrounded by division - in our country, our neighborhoods, our homes, and our churches. But the Bible tells us time and time again that we're supposed to find unity with one another. So how do we do that when it feels impossible? Whether you're seeing division in your marriage, your family, your workplace, your church, or on the media, join Lexi and Katie Rose as they walk through what it looks like to fight for unity, and the beautiful community that God gives us when we know our mission.If you're new to Harbor or want to get connected in any way click this link to get your New Here gift, find upcoming events or get involved!https://harborchurch.com/connect

A lighthearted yet honest look at how we engage in worship, break down stereotypes, and find freedom in expressing our love for God.If you're new to Harbor or want to get connected in any way click this link to get your New Here gift, find upcoming events or get involved!https://harborchurch.com/connect

A divided church can't defeat a united enemy.Jesus prayed for unity, not just among His disciples, but for all believers. In this message, Pastor Josh breaks down the silent killers of unity including pride, gossip, and unforgiveness and why we must fight for peace in our homes, churches, and relationships. Unity isn't about agreeing on everything; it's about refusing to let what divides us be bigger than who unites us. Unity is not the absence of conflict, it is the presence of Christ. If you're new to Harbor or want to get connected in any way click this link to get your New Here gift, find upcoming events or get involved!https://harborchurch.com/connect

What does it mean to live ready for Jesus' second coming? Pastor Josh and Hannah unpack the parable of the ten bridesmaids, dive into the book of Revelation, and talk through different perspectives on the rapture and tribulation—all with a focus on how we can walk faithfully today.If you're new to Harbor or want to get connected in any way click this link to get your New Here gift, find upcoming events or get involved!https://harborchurch.com/connect

Are you really ready… or just pretending to be? In this message, Pastor Josh unpacks the parable of the ten bridesmaids and reminds us that it's not enough to look prepared, you have to be prepared. Stop procrastinating and start living like Jesus could return at any moment. Because when the door shuts... excuses won't open it. If you're new to Harbor or want to get connected in any way click this link to get your New Here gift, find upcoming events or get involved!https://harborchurch.com/connect

What does it look like to worship when you don't feel like it? John Petty and Jess discuss the role of gratitude in keeping our eyes fixed on God—even when our emotions lag behind. Together they unpack the tension between faith and feelings, obedience and authenticity, and how gratitude can move us into deeper worship as individuals and as a church family.If you're new to Harbor or want to get connected in any way click this link to get your New Here gift, find upcoming events or get involved!https://harborchurch.com/connect

Parenting isn't about perfection—it's about pointing our kids to God. In this podcast, John and Jo-Anne share their journey from young, overwhelmed parents to raising children and now grandchildren with Christ at the center. Through honest stories, biblical wisdom, and practical encouragement, they explore everything from toddler tantrums and teen challenges to prodigals and the joys of grandparenting. Whether you're a first-time parent, navigating the teen years, or seeking to build a faith-filled legacy, this conversation will remind you that solid ground isn't found in culture—it's found in Christ.If you're new to Harbor or want to get connected in any way click this link to get your New Here gift, find upcoming events or get involved!https://harborchurch.com/connect