Hope City Church

Sometimes we assume that if we're following God, life should go smoothly. But what happens when it doesn't? This week, Pastor Phil Kniesel continues our He Never Said That series by confronting the idea that following Jesus guarantees a pain-free life. You'll be encouraged by the truth that even when things don't go as planned, God is still with us and His plans are good.Send us a text

“Follow your heart” sounds nice… but what if it's actually leading you the wrong way?In this message, Pastor Phil Kniesel unpacks why this phrase isn't something Jesus ever said. Instead, we're reminded how the Bible describes the heart, why we need something more dependable to guide us, and how the Holy Spirit is our true helper and guide.Send us a text

Everyone experiences moments where we feel like we've blown it... like our mistakes disqualify us. But what if that's not the end of the story?This week, Pastor Paul Drader shares a message called What Goes Around Comes Around, reminding us that God's grace shows up even when we don't deserve it. Looking at the story of Mephibosheth and King David, we see a powerful picture of God's love for us, one that doesn't wait for us to get everything right.Send us a text

What if God's presence has been with you all along, even when you didn't feel it? In this message, Pastor Phil unpacks the final verse of Psalm 23 and reminds us that God's goodness and love are not distant hopes, they're daily realities. If you've felt forgotten or alone, this is a reminder that God is still pursuing you, and His presence goes with you into every moment.Send us a text

When life feels overwhelming, is real peace even possible?This week, Pastor Matt continues our series on Psalm 23 by exploring one of the most powerful lines in the passage - “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.”This message is a reminder that God doesn't wait to bring peace until our problems go away. Instead, He invites us to experience His presence in the middle of the chaos.Whether you're walking through pressure at work, tension in your home, or anxiety about the future, this message will encourage you to lean into the peace that only God can give.Send us a text

This week, Pastor Phil dives into the heart of Psalm 23:4 and explores what it means to walk through life's darkest valleys. With honesty and hope, he reminds us that fear doesn't have to win when we know God is with us. You'll also hear a powerful personal story from Pastor Katie about finding God's presence in the middle of pain. No matter what you're facing, you are not alone.Send us a text

This week, Pastor Phil continues our Psalm 23 series with a message about what happens when we let God lead our lives. Even when life feels busy, anxious, or out of control, God offers rest, clarity, refreshment, and purpose. You'll be challenged to let go of striving and allow God to be your guide, discovering peace that runs deeper than circumstances.Send us a text

Psalm 23 is one of the most well-known passages in the Bible, but do we really understand the heart behind it? In this week's message, Pastor Ken kicks off our new series by exploring the opening line: “The Lord is my Shepherd, I lack nothing.”Through powerful teaching and real-life application, you'll discover what kind of Shepherd God truly is—and how to experience the peace and security that come from letting Him lead your life.Send us a text

Celebrate Easter with us at Hope City Church! This Easter service includes our band leading us in songs that help us understand who God is and express our love and thankfulness to Him.In this special Easter service, Pastor Phil shares an Easter message filled with the hope and life found in Jesus. Whether you've been part of church for years or you're just checking things out, this is a moment to reflect on what Easter truly means.Send us a text

Releasing control, perseverance, and a changed heart are all part of surrendering our will to God's. This week, Pastor Phil continues our Prayers of Jesus series with a powerful and honest message on surrender. Looking at Jesus' prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane, we learn what it means to fully trust God, even when life doesn't go the way we want.Send us a text

In this message, Pastor Ken continues our Prayers of Jesus series with a raw and powerful look at one of Jesus' final prayers on the cross: “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” If you've ever felt like God was distant or silent, this message will help you find hope, understand the depth of Jesus' suffering, and discover how to pray with honesty and faith—especially when God doesn't seem to show up.Send us a text

Of all the things Jesus could've prayed for before going to the cross, He prayed for unity. Why? And what does that mean for us today?In this week's message, Pastor Ken unpacks Jesus' powerful prayer from John 17 and shows how unity in the Church isn't just a nice idea—it's essential to our witness, our purpose, and our relationship with God. If you've ever struggled with tension in relationships or unforgiveness, this message is for you.Send us a text

We're kicking off a brand-new series called Prayers of Jesus, where we'll explore how Jesus prayed and what that means for us today. In this message, Pastor Phil walks us through a moment where Jesus praises the Father—and shows us that praise isn't just a nice idea, it's powerful and essential.Discover how praise changes our hearts, draws us into God's presence, and becomes a weapon in spiritual battles. If you've ever wanted a deeper, more consistent prayer life, this message is for you.Send us a text

The gift of tongues has sparked a lot of discussion, confusion, and even division within the Church. Some overemphasize it, making it a requirement for salvation, while others dismiss it entirely. But what does the Bible actually say about tongues?In this message, Pastor Phil unpacks what Scripture teaches about this spiritual gift—its purpose, how it works, and how it can deepen your relationship with God. If you've ever wondered about speaking in tongues, this message brings clarity and balance to the conversation.Send us a text

This week, Pastor Ken explores the spiritual gift of Distinguishing Between Spirits—the ability to recognize whether something is from the Holy Spirit, an unholy spirit, or the human spirit. We'll unpack why this gift is essential, how to test the spirits, and how to live with spiritual discernment.Send us a text

Have you ever wondered what prophecy actually is? Does God still speak to people today? In this message, Pastor Phil unpacks the gift of prophecy, how it strengthens and encourages believers, and what it means for your faith. Discover how God speaks through His people and how you can grow in the gifts He's given you.Send us a text

Does God still heal today? What should we do when we pray and nothing happens? In this message, Pastor Paul unpacks how miracles and healing fit within God's greater plan. While we may not always understand why some receive healing and others don't, we can trust that God is always working for our good. Learn how to pray boldly for miracles while resting in His sovereignty.Send us a text

Faith is more than belief—it's a spiritual gift that empowers us to trust God in impossible situations. In this message, Pastor Ken unpacks what the Bible says about faith as a spiritual gift and how we can develop a faith that moves mountains. Are you using the faith God has given you?Send us a text

Did you know that you have a spiritual gift? In this message, Pastor Phil unpacks what 1 Corinthians 12 teaches about wisdom and knowledge—two gifts that help us grow in faith and impact others. Discover how God has uniquely gifted you and why those gifts aren't just for you, but for the common good.Send us a text

Your body is a gift from God—how are you stewarding it? In this message, Pastor Ken explores a biblical perspective on physical health, debunking misconceptions and revealing how caring for our bodies is an act of worship. Learn practical ways to honour God with your body through sleep, nutrition, rest, and more.Send us a text

Learn how biblical principles can help you hold onto thoughts that bring life, peace, and joy. Pastor Ruben dives into the power of our thoughts and how they shape our lives. Through insights from Philippians and Colossians, discover practical steps to secure your identity in Christ, face adversity, and replace anxiety with God's peace.Send us a text

Discover how to approach your work with purpose and faith. Pastor Phil explores biblical principles on work, showing how God designed it as an act of worship. Learn to see your job as a calling, not just a paycheck, and gain a renewed sense of mission and meaning in your career.Join the conversation with Pastor Ken in our new podcast Faith For Real Life as he digs into into what professional health looks like with Pastor Phil. Send us a text

Pastor Phil dives into the Bible's practical advice on financial health. Learn how to steward what God has entrusted to you through giving, self-control, sacrifice, and planning. Discover why godliness with contentment is great gain (1 Timothy 6:6-7) and how trusting God with your resources leads to freedom and peace. Start your year with financial wisdom and a fresh perspective on God's provision. Send us a text

Pastor Paul Drader (Terwillegar Campus Pastor) leads us through an audio prayer experience for our week of prayer. Send us a text

In this message, Pastor Phil opens 2025 with a focus on spiritual health, unpacking the Lord's Prayer from Matthew 6:5-13. Discover seven practical ways to strengthen your prayer life and experience the transformation Jesus promises through prayer. Send us a text

Discover what it means to live a life where faith is more than words—it's action rooted in obedience and courage. Imagine what God could do through you when you trust Him fully.  In this powerful message, Pastor Matt takes us to 1 Samuel 14 to explore the “bookends” of faith. Learn how Jonathan's bold trust in God led to action, and how God's power was displayed in incredible ways.  

Learn how to prepare your heart this Advent season to experience the fullness of joy in Christ.  This week, Pastor Ken shares the message of joy from Luke 2:1-11. The angels' announcement to the shepherds was good news of great joy for all people. Discover how the birth of Jesus turns fear into joy and why true joy is found in the presence of God. Challenge of the Week: Each day, take a moment to reflect on a specific area of your life where fear has taken root. Write it down and pray for God's presence to replace that fear with joy. Share your journey with a friend or on social media using #AdventJoyChallenge and tag us to join the conversation.Last Week's Sermon: Missed last week's message on finding peace in God's promises? Listen to Pastor Phil's insights on anchoring your heart in the Prince of Peace here.Engage with us and others as we journey through Advent together!Send us a text

Learn how to anchor your heart and mind in God's unshakable promises and lay down the tension stealing your peace.  In this week's Advent message, Pastor Phil explores the gift of peace Jesus offers. Drawing from Isaiah 9:6-7 and John 14:27, he shares how true peace isn't found in perfect circumstances but in the Prince of Peace Himself. Challenge of the Week:Identify one area in your life where you feel tension. Starting today, take five minutes every day to pray and mentally give these worries to Jesus and ask for His peace to fill that space. Write about your experience and thoughts and questions or share with a close friend or family. Text us and join the conversation!Missed last week's message on hope? Dive into the first part of our Advent series, where Pastor Phil discusses the sustaining power of hope in life's trials. Listen here: Advent Series - The Power of Hope.Send us a text

Feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges? This week's podcast marks the beginning of our Advent series, where Pastor Phil delves into the profound impact of hope. Learn how hope, firmly anchored in God's promises, can sustain and motivate you through trials. With insights from the life of Dietrich Bonhoeffer and the teachings of Paul, this message will inspire you to embrace a hope that is active, anticipatory, and deeply rooted in faith.Challenge of the Week:Each day this week, identify and write down one promise from Scripture that brings you hope. Place each one in a prominent space so that you can reflect on how this promise can serve as an anchor in uncertain times. Text us your thoughts below or share with a friend or family member. Last Week's Sermon:If you missed last week's message, explore the conclusion of our "Follow Me" series. Pastor Ken discusses what it means to "fish for people" and how God can work through you to bring others into His grace. Listen here: Last Week's Sermon.Send us a text

Discover what it means to “fish for people” and how God can work through you to bring others into His grace. Through practical steps and inspiring stories, Pastor Ken challenges us to live out and talk up our faith. In this final message of our “Follow Me” series, Pastor Ken dives into Mark 1:1-18, exploring the heart of the Gospel and the call to follow Jesus by sharing the Good News. 

Discover why following Jesus requires being completely conquered by His love and leadership and how this decision impacts every area of our lives.This week, we begin our series “Follow Me,” exploring what it truly means to follow Jesus. Pastor Ken dives into Matthew 16:13-26, unpacking Jesus' radical call to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Him wholeheartedly.  

Send us a textDiscover how to develop a life of prayer that brings peace, healing, and a closer relationship with God.In this episode, Pastor Matt explores James 5:13-18, emphasizing the power of prayer in every season of life. Learn how to build a faith that turns to God as a first response, not a last resort, and discover the peace and healing that come from a life rooted in prayer.

In this episode, Pastor Phil unpacks James 5:7-11, teaching us how patience and trust in God help us endure life's challenges. With a personal addition from Pastor Graham, we're reminded that God is present with us in every trial. Learn how to build resilience and strengthen your faith during difficult times.

Pastor Ken dives into James 4:13-17, urging us to submit our plans to God and embrace humility as we navigate life's uncertainties. Learn how to align your decisions with God's will and avoid the pitfalls of arrogant planning.Scriptures:James 4:13-17Matthew 6:34Psalm 144:3-41 Thessalonians 4:3Galatians 5:25Matthew 26:39Show Notes: https://www.buzzsprout.com/292661/episodes/16000067

Conflict is unavoidable, but through James 4, Pastor Phil Kniesel reveals how faith can transform our response to it. This episode explores the roots of conflict, from selfish motives to worldly influences, and shows how God's grace is the key to lasting peace. Tune in to learn practical ways to deal with anger and conflict biblically, and how submission, worship, and humility can reshape our relationships and lives.

Join Pastor Phil Kniesel for this inspiring Thanksgiving message, where he shares four reasons why thankfulness is a powerful spiritual discipline. Through practical examples and powerful scripture, Pastor Phil encourages us to let gratitude shape our perspective, guard us against sin, and recognize God's control. Choose gratitude today!

Description:In this episode, we dive into James 3:13-18, where we learn about two kinds of wisdom: worldly wisdom and the wisdom that comes from God. Discover practical ways to live wisely by aligning your life with God's design, and learn how humility, peace, and integrity can guide you to make better decisions. Follow along as we explore how to live the life God intended.

In this episode, Pastor Phil unpacks James 3:1-12 to show the profound effect our words have on our lives. Learn how what we say reveals our spiritual maturity and the state of our hearts. Discover practical steps to align your speech with God's purpose and live out a faith that impacts others.

In this episode, Pastor Phil unpacks James 2:14-26 to show how true faith naturally results in action. Explore how a vibrant faith doesn't just stay in your mind but impacts your choices and your lifestyle. Learn how to live out a faith that transforms everything.

In this episode, Pastor Phil tackles the topic of favoritism and how it contradicts our faith in Jesus. We explore James 2:1-13 to learn what it means to treat everyone equally and extend mercy, just as God does. Discover practical ways to break down favoritism in your daily life and reflect the heart of Christ.

In this episode, Pastor Phil takes us through James 1:19-21, showing us how faith impacts our response to anger. Learn practical ways to deal with anger in a way that aligns with God's will, and discover how real faith isn't just about what you believe but how you live.

Join us this week as Pastor Ken explores what it means to have a faith that truly perseveres through life's challenges. In the first message of our “Faith for Real Life” series, we dive into the Book of James to discover how our faith can remain steadfast, not just in theory but in the everyday realities we face.

Join us this week as Pastor Paul Drader explores the true meaning of worship. Worship isn't just about singing songs at church—it's about living a life of obedience, surrender, and devotion to God in response to who He is. Discover how worship can transform every aspect of your life as we dive into the biblical foundations of worship, the importance of keeping God first, and how to live out true worship daily.

Welcome back to our Rhythms series! This week, we explore the spiritual discipline of confession. Discover how confessing our sins allows us to reconnect with God, receive His grace, and live in true freedom. Learn practical steps to incorporate confession into your daily life and experience the joy and peace that come with it.

Welcome back to our Rhythms series! This week, we explore the spiritual discipline of service. Discover how true greatness is found in serving others, and learn practical ways to incorporate service into your daily life, reflecting Jesus' example of humility and love.New? - https://hopecity.ca/new Stay Connected - https://hopecity.ca/weekly Following Jesus – https://hopecity.ca/life Giving - https://hopecity.ca/give 

Welcome back to our Rhythms series! This week, Pastor Ken McIntyre delves into the spiritual discipline of solitude. Discover how solitude, distinct from isolation, helps us connect deeply with God and find peace in His presence. Learn practical ways to incorporate this powerful practice into your daily life and experience the freedom that comes with it.New? - https://hopecity.ca/new Stay Connected - https://hopecity.ca/weekly Following Jesus – https://hopecity.ca/life Giving - https://hopecity.ca/give

Welcome back to our Rhythms series! This week, we dive into the spiritual discipline of fasting. Fasting isn't just about giving up food—it's about creating space for God to work in our lives. Discover the benefits of fasting, how to start, and practical tips to incorporate this powerful practice into your routine.

In this week's message, Pastor Matt explores the transformative power of submission and how it leads to true freedom in Christ. Are you ready to embrace this life-changing discipline?Join us as we delve into the spiritual discipline of submission, understanding its importance in our walk with Jesus, and learning practical steps to cultivate a life of surrender to God. Through the story of Ananias and Saul, discover how submission can lead to a deeper connection with God and a more fulfilling life.Key Points:Understanding the concept of submission and its importance in our spiritual journey.Practical steps to cultivate a life of submission: Attuning your ears to Jesus, embracing faith over fear, and becoming an instrument of God's grace.Insights from the story of Ananias and Saul and the transformative power of submission.The paradox of finding true life and freedom through self-denial and following Jesus.