Jacob's Well Church

Have you ever had a before-and-after moment that changed everything? In this message, we explore how the gospel first arrived in Europe through a group of unlikely people—a businesswoman, a slave girl, and a Roman jailer—and how their encounters with Jesus sparked a church in Philippi. As we begin our journey through Philippians, we're invited to know Christ in a deeper, more personal way—beyond information and into transformation. Discover how knowing Jesus reshapes our mindset, reframes our stories, and grows joy in every circumstance.

Our world is in desperate need of good, strong men—men of character and courage who grow, lead, and serve like Christ. Whether you're a dad, a mentor, or just trying to figure it out, you're called to rise up. This is a message about legacy, responsibility, and the kind of strength that makes a difference.

It creeps in quietly—sometimes while sitting in your favorite chair, sometimes when scrolling past someone else's life. Coveting may not seem as dangerous as other sins, but it can poison your heart, relationships, and even your view of God. In this message, we'll unpack how this subtle yet toxic mindset of comparison, entitlement, and envy can steal your joy and contentment—and discover how Christ offers us a better way to live with freedom and gratitude.

What does it really mean to be a safe person? In this message Pastor Paul takes a deeper look at the commands not to steal or bear false witness—revealing how these aren't just rules, but relational foundations built on trust, truth, and integrity. When we live in reality and walk in honesty, we stop taking from others and start building something better together.

Pastor Paul invites us to see the Ten Commandments not just as a list of rules, but as a call to become people who honor life and reflect God's heart in our relationships. Jesus moves the conversation from behavior to the heart—showing us that contempt, lust, and dehumanization are as destructive to our souls as outward actions. As we remember the value of every person made in God's image, we'll explore how true life is found in giving life, protecting dignity, and choosing love over contempt, even in the most difficult relationships.

In a world that never stops pushing, many of us find ourselves constantly exhausted—physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. But God offers us something radically different: the gift of rest. In this message, we explore the Sabbath not as a rule to follow, but as a rhythm of grace—a sacred space for renewal, trust, and joy. Come find freedom in the kind of rest that restores your soul.

In this heartfelt and practical Mother's Day message, Terri Markquart invites us to rediscover the beauty and power of the fifth commandment—honor your father and mother. With wisdom, humor, and personal stories, we explore what it truly means to attach value to others, beginning in the home. From parenting's heavy moments to the quiet strength of caring for aging parents, this message challenges us to become people of honor in a world that desperately needs it.

What do you worship—really? In this powerful message, we're invited to consider that worship isn't just singing songs or praying; it's about what captures our heart, attention, and sacrifice every single day. Whether we realize it or not, we all worship something. Pastor Paul unpacks the first three commandments not as rules, but as life-giving principles that reveal how worship shapes our identity, our priorities, and our relationships. 

This week focuses on the context behind our new series on the Ten Commandments.

We were made for covenant, not chaos. In this message, we begin rediscovering the power of covenant—where love and commitment meet to create the foundation for flourishing families, churches, and nations. Through the lens of the Ten Commandments, we see how God's timeless truths are not just ancient rules, but a path to real freedom, written on our hearts through Jesus.

What if the empty tomb wasn't just a symbol of hope—but the turning point of your entire story? In this Easter message, Pastor Paul unpacks the deeper meaning behind the resurrection of Jesus and the gifts it offers to every one of us. Whether your life feels stuck in tragedy, weighed down by fear, or wandering without direction, the risen Christ invites you into something greater. Something lasting. Something true. Come discover the three gifts of the empty tomb—and what they might mean for your story.4o

Paul and Brian discuss the nuances of the word 'hate' when used in Scripture.

The disciples thought they knew what Jesus came to do—but His words in the upper room turned their expectations upside down. In this message, we're invited to wrestle with disappointment, rethink what we truly need, and discover the kind of joy that can't be taken away.

Revival is stirring up across the Chippewa Valley. This week, we celebrate what God is doing and lean into the Upper Room discourse. 

Jesus didn't leave us on our own—He gave us the Holy Spirit to guide, comfort, and empower us. In this message, we'll look at who the Spirit is, how He works in our lives, and what it means to walk with Him daily in truth, love, and power. Also, Pastor Paul's Making Room update!

Feeling anxious or overwhelmed? In this message, we're invited to slow down, name what we're feeling, and experience comfort for the troubled heart. Through a simple spiritual practice, we'll learn how to notice God's presence, rest in His promises, and find peace in who He is.

Choosing to love like Jesus is both necessary, and complicated.

Of all the things Jesus asks of us, the most difficult—and most defining—is His command to love one another. Not a sentimental, feel-good love, but a costly, courageous, and sacrificial love that reflects the way He loves us. In this message, we're invited to rediscover what real love looks like, especially when it's hard, undeserved, or painful. 

Acting as a servant may call for multiple approaches depending on what the situation calls for.

Have you ever stepped into something new, convinced you'd be great at it, only to be humbled by how hard it really was? Whether it's parenting, marriage, a new job, or even just a hobby like golf, we all encounter moments where our confidence meets reality. In this message, Pastor Brian shares his personal journey of learning humility and grace—lessons shaped on the football field, in parenting, and through the quiet example of Jesus washing His disciples' feet. Discover how embracing the postures of love, humility, and submission can reshape not only how we serve others but how we become more like Christ.

The Gospel of John places an interesting focus on the word BELIEVE over the word FAITH.

What does it mean to live a life that truly matters? In his message Lifted Up, Pastor Paul shares a personal story about growing up in a big old house with hidden stained-glass windows—beautiful, but covered up and kept in the dark. He uses this image to remind us that God created each of us to be glorious, like stained glass that shines when light passes through it. But that kind of beauty and purpose isn't found by holding on to our own desires. It comes when we choose a life of service, sacrifice, and daily surrender to God.

As we enter this season of Lent, this episode helps us to see the incredible value of studying the Upper Room Discourse. 

Fear, frustration, and pain—negative emotions we often try to push down and just press on with life. But what if true healing only comes from facing these emotions, not running from them? In this message, Pastor Paul talks about facing our painful emotions with faith, letting Jesus transform them, and finding real peace, joy, and healing in Him. As we enter Lent, a season marked by ashes and renewal, this is our chance to bring our struggles into the light once and for all. Jesus knows our pain—He walked through suffering and gave His life to overcome it.

Sometimes, the outcome that God has planned takes us by surprise… 

Quick fixes won't save you—discover the secret to deep healing. In this message, a powerful man's struggle with pride and brokenness unveils an unexpected invitation to let go, humble yourself, and embrace a transformative journey with God. Are you ready to confront your hidden wounds and experience true, lasting change?

Through the story of Elijah and Elisha, we see how God's presence shapes and commissions us, calling us to deeper faith and transformation. Whether through a fiery chariot or a still small voice, God's glory is meant to be experienced, not just observed. This message explores how God meets us in the ordinary and empowers us for the extraordinary.

Who are the truth-tellers in your life? Is our culture ready to listen when they speak? 

How clearly do you see the world around you? In this message, we explore the powerful biblical metaphor of sight—both physical and spiritual. When we rely only on what we see with our eyes, fear and uncertainty can cloud our vision. Pastor Paul explains how spiritual sight allows us to recognize truth, see God's presence in our lives, and understand that He is fighting for us.

This is an important follow-up conversation to last Sunday's message on Wickedness. How do we talk with our loved ones about the evil in this world?

Evil is real, and it thrives when it goes unchecked. In a world that often calls what is wicked good and what is good intolerant, we must stand firm in discerning truth. But recognizing evil isn't enough—we must turn our hearts toward righteousness. Scripture warns us that unchecked sin leads to destruction, but God, in His mercy, always offers a way back. No one is beyond redemption. True repentance—turning away from darkness and back to God—restores what evil seeks to destroy. The call is clear: pursue the good, stand for truth, and embrace the grace that leads to life.

This week we have special guest Mackenzie Fisk as we discuss the power of replacing harmful narratives with a better story. 

In this message, Mackenzie confronts the powerful influence of the narratives we tell ourselves. Through the story of Elijah and his encounter with God, we see the tension between negative self-beliefs and the truth of God's gentle, loving voice. So what are the stories shaping your life today? Are they rooted in fear, doubt, and inadequacy—or in the transformative truth of who God says you are? Reframing these narratives through Scripture can lead to freedom, purpose, and a deeper relationship with Jesus– IF, we let God's voice be the loudest in our lives.

Have you ever felt like the ordinary parts of life don't matter to God? In this message, you'll see how God is present in both the mundane and the miraculous. Through the story of Elijah and the widow, Pastor Paul shows how God works through every moment to provide, guide, and include us in His greater plan. Be encouraged that nothing in your life is too small for His care!

What are you offering your life to? Reflecting on the truth that each day we place our time, energy, and resources on an altar, we are reminded to examine where we invest ourselves. In a world of competing "altars" that demand much but deliver little, we're called to fully devote ourselves to God—the true source of life, purpose, and peace.

Elijah lived in a very complicated time. This week we dig into the context that informs the narrative. 

The Holy Spirit moved in extraordinary ways through Elijah and Elisha, yet we are reminded that they were just like us. Ordinary people who seek the face of God and experience His presence in powerful miracles and tender moments of stillness.

What happens when we lose our connection to the vine?

What role should communion play in our worship services? How can we learn from Church History and various traditions to explore this question? 

In this message, Pastor Paul explores Jesus' declaration, "I am the Bread of Life," showing how only He can satisfy our deepest hunger. Through John's Gospel, we're invited to embrace the eternal fulfillment found in Christ alone. 

…and he's not the only one. 

Have you ever felt lost? Executive Pastor Brian Faught brings a powerful message from John 14, where Jesus declares, “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” We're reminded that Jesus is not just one of many paths but the only way to true purpose, abundant life, and eternal hope. 

The definition of leadership in the Bible. 

Who's leading your life, and are they worth following? In this message, we hear how Jesus leads with love, sacrifice, and care—offering a better way for us to live and lead. This message shows us how to tune out the voices that steal and destroy and instead follow the voice of the One who knows us by name and gives us life to the fullest.

Special Guest Tim Huebner joins us as we discuss the wisdom of feasting. 

As Advent begins, what does it mean to truly celebrate this season? Pastor Paul invites us to reflect on the art of celebration—not just feasting with food but celebrating with joy and hope rooted in Christ. We'll explore the profound truth of Jesus as the great "I Am," the God who is beyond all understanding yet came close to us. Come rediscover the beauty of His love, the power of His promises, and the joy that makes this season worth celebrating.

A special episode featuring Brian Faught and Grace Subiaga!

What are you chasing after in life? In this, the final week of our Close series, we explore the story of Nicodemus in John 3—a man risking everything to meet Jesus in secret. Confronted with the truth of spiritual rebirth, he begins to realize that the things we pursue in life, which seem so important, often leave us empty. Only through Jesus can we find the renewal and purpose we were created for. We conclude this powerful series by discovering how closeness to God truly changes everything.

This week we have a very interesting conversation about interpreting and expounding on scripture passages. 

What do you really want? In this message, we explore this question through the story of a man stuck for 38 years, both physically and spiritually. Jesus's question, “Do you want to be healed?” invites us to confront our own areas of stagnation. Too often, we settle for what's comfortable or place our hope in the wrong things, missing the deeper healing only Jesus can offer. This message challenges us to trust Him, take a step of faith, and experience the wholeness we truly long for.