Living Word Family Church Sermon Podcast

In challenging times, understanding one's identity in Christ is crucial. Pastor Mike emphasizes the importance of renewing the mind to align with God's will and avoiding worldly influences. He highlights the power of words and the need for accountability in how we speak. Pursuing excellence in all endeavors and prioritizing faith in God are key themes, encouraging a victorious life in Christ while standing firm in faith amidst challenges. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jesus spent three years pouring His life into the disciples, especially the Twelve. Of course, Jesus knew they still had more to learn, but He told them to go into the world and start preaching. He didn't tell them to wait until they had all the answers, until the New Testament was written, or anything like that. But He DID tell them to wait for one thing... and that one thing would change everything... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A personal story about a memorial service for a 93-year-old brother-in-law illustrates the power of faith and the importance of witnessing to others. Pastor Mike emphasizes renewing the mind, referencing Romans 12:2, and the transformative journey of becoming more like Christ. He encourages changing thoughts to align with God's word and inspiring us to live for Christ. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In recent weeks we have labored to understand that our salvation rests SOLELY on our faith-filled response to the finished word of Christ. But as we grow in Him, we need to sink our teeth into the meat of the word, and that means taking His commandments seriously. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There is more to "Live the Gospel" than walking in the blessings of the covenant, which we talked about last week. Obedience is still required, even though we are no longer under the law. Jesus said that if we love Him, we will keep His commandments. But there is another aspect to obedience, and it is absolutely wrapped up in evangelism. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Words play a crucial role in determining outcomes, as highlighted throughout God's word. We are encouraged to declare our identity in line with the truths of scripture. Pastor Mike emphasizes faith's role in overcoming challenges. Tonight, we also discuss the significance of testimony and the authority in speaking God's promises. As well as stressing the impact of words on our reality. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does it mean to "live the Gospel"? Part of it is to recognize what God has promised (remember: the Gospel is "good news"!) and learn to enjoy the blessings of the relationship we have with Him through Christ. We have a responsibility to know what is promised to us, and to do what is necessary to appropriate those promises. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Relying on supernatural power is essential for navigating life's challenges. Warnings from scripture highlight the importance of knowing God's word to avoid deception. Pastor Mike discusses Jesus' baptism and empowerment by the Holy Spirit, emphasizing overcoming temptation through scripture. He also covers the Holy Spirit's role in guiding believers, the significance of church unity, and the expectation of signs through faith. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Everything we do and preach as believers in Christ must be grounded in what we believe, and what we believe must be grounded in scripture. In order to prepare ourselves to respond to the great commission, we need to examine some of the key beliefs we profess as a church. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We all have the opportunity to hear from God. And many of us would say we desire to. But once we DO hear from Him, then what? We need to think through the appropriate response to revelation from the Lord. How do we position ourselves to receive it, and how do we steward it WHEN received? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our vision statement at Living Word is "Live the Gospel; Preach the Gospel". Before we live it and preach it, though, we need to know it. What is the Gospel, and what does it mean to live it? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Assoc Pastor Mike Mack Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Before He ascended, Jesus gave His disciples what is known as The Great Commission. There are details in the great commission worth exploring, but if you had to distill it down into three words, those three words would be "Preach the Gospel". We are beginning a new series that I believe God is going to use to fill us with a renewed passion to reach the lost, and we are going to start with a fresh look at "Live the Gospel, Preach the Gospel". Don't miss it! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tonight, Pastor Mike emphasizes the significance of Easter Resurrection Day and salvation through Jesus. He discusses the importance of fighting the good fight of faith and knowing the Word of God to avoid deception. Pastor Mike highlights the transformation into a new creation in Christ, along with believers' roles as ambassadors for reconciliation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It is vital for believers to understand the sufficiency of Christ's finished work on the cross. If we don't, we will struggle all our lives trying to be good enough, trying to do enough, and forever falling short. Once we begin to grasp the nature of the victory Jesus won, though, we can serve Him confidently, joyfully, and effectively! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Assoc Pastor Mike Mack Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Assoc Pastor Mike Mack Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The ministry of Jesus culminated in the crucifixion and resurrection. As we have been learning in this series, there were other sacrifices He made before the ultimate sacrifice (What He left), and other gifts He gave before giving His life (What He Gave). Now let's look at what Jesus carried with Him before He carried the cross. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As we continue to explore Christ's journey to the cross, we see something truly extraordinary if we bother to notice it. Jesus could have come and lived in any number of ways (without sinning), paid our sin debt, and left. Instead, we see a life, a ministry, wherein He served and gave in amazing ways. What a model this is for us, whom God has blessed so generously, and from whom God requires much! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Assoc Pastor Mike Mack Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As we draw closer to resurrection Sunday, let's take a fresh look at what was involved in our salvation. We know Jesus died on the Cross; was there anything else to His sacrifice? Jesus said some strong things about loving this world, leaving all, taking up our cross, etc. Let's look today at what Jesus left when He came to redeem us. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A famous "congregational prayer" used to say "Lord, keep our pastor humble; we'll keep him poor".Should those in occupational ministry even be paid for preaching the Gospel? Is this poor stewardship of offerings? After all, didn't Paul work with his hands in order to preach for free? Let's look at some of these questions and the clear answers in the Bible! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tonight, Pastor Mike talks about how worship and gratitude are essential. Continuous rejoicing and prayer are encouraged, even during tough moments. The story of Paul and Silas illustrates the power of praise, leading to miraculous deliverance. Living with gratitude and counting blessings is vital, as God is always present and supportive. Pastor Mike concludes with a reminder of the eternal life promised to believers, urging everyone to trust in God's plan. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Some believe that the matter of Christians and money can be settled easily by simply pointing out that Jesus Himself was poor, and we are to follow His example. But was Jesus actually poor? You might be surprised by the answer! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Continuing on the topic of the presence of the Lord, one of the things that is promised there is rest...true rest. What does that look like? Why do we not experience that more easily in today's society? And how do we get there? The world tends to see rest in ways that lead to the same traps that can cause us to get our focus off of Jesus. Through the Word, we see it differently...the way God sees it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tonight, Pastor Mike reminds us that, as believers, we are called to perform greater works as Jesus did. He emphasizes the importance of prayer and being led by the Spirit. Unity among believers is crucial, and individuals are encouraged to witness boldly for Jesus. Remember the power you hold through the Holy Spirit and engage with God's word to fulfill your divine purpose. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

David's one desire was to be in the presence of God. On this side of the cross, David's desire has become a reality for us. But are we taking full advantage of the 24/7 opportunity we have to look at Him? Where is our focus during the many different things we go through in life? In this message, we'll look at examples from the life of Peter and find out how to live a life of beholding. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tonight, Pastor Mike emphasizes the importance of walking in wisdom, drawing from biblical teachings in Proverbs. He highlights understanding God's will, redeeming our time wisely, and recognizing each person's divine calling. Our discussion encourages living a spirit-filled life, avoiding distractions, and practicing gratitude. Serving others while giving God glory, along with humility and selflessness. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Say the word "prosperity" in some churches, and you might raise some eyebrows. Some try to draw a distinction between God's will for the children of Israel and His will for New Covenant believers when it comes to prosperity, since it's so clearly promised in the Old Testament. But it is Jesus who spoke of abundance. And it is the Holy Spirit, through Paul, who spoke of superabundance! Prosperity -financial prosperity- is not our goal as followers of Christ, but we must be liberated from the notion that not only is it not sinful, it is something God desires for us. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We might tend to think that there is a stark division between tithing in the Old Testament vs giving in the New Testament, but the Old Testament actually has more to say about giving than about tithing. This shouldn't surprise us because God doesn't change; He valued and rewarded the generous hearts of the Old Testament children of Abraham, and He values and rewards the generous hearts of Abraham's spiritual children of the new covenant. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Money is a ticklish, sometimes risky topic in church. Abuses of scripture, manipulation, and financial scandals have caused some to become jaded with regard to giving support to their church and other ministries. The Bible has a lot to say about money, and Jesus spoke about it often. In this first message of a three week series on giving, we start with a look at what the word of God says about the tithe. How much is it? Where does it go/what's it for? Is it for today? Join us for this and much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Assoc Pastor Mike Mack Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As we wrap up our three-week fast, we will take a look at some more of what God said to Israel about fasting, as well as what Jesus has to say to us about fasting today. The Christian life is not defined by fasting or any other expression of suffering or affliction; but there is a place for these things. As we look into the word, we can see the Father and the Son speaking to us about FEASTING in His presence, and how celebration and sacrifice both have their places in our lives. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Spiritual growth is essential in all areas of life, especially during tough times. Maintaining hope in Jesus is crucial, as is understanding God's word for personal transformation. Daily practices like meditating on God's Word and prayer foster spiritual health, leading to peace and fulfillment. The journey of spiritual growth requires commitment and looking to Jesus for guidance and strength. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As we begin the final week of our 21-day fast, we would do well to heed the warnings of scripture about certain attitudes about fasting. As most of you have probably begun to realize, fasting can be a rewarding and life-changing experience. But God Himself rarely proclaimed a fast, and has some harsh words for those who fast improperly! We can be encouraged nonetheless in our fasting as we fast in faith. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Understanding God's unchanging nature is crucial for believers. Through prayer and scripture, we gain authority to overcome life's challenges. Focusing on God's ability empowers us to resist temptation, as demonstrated by Jesus. Pastor Mike encourages us to preach the gospel and live out faith through our actions. Ultimately, it calls for believers to be grounded in God's word, knowing and sharing His truth. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As we begin week two or our three-week fast, it can be useful to think about the effects so far. Are you hungry? Are you hungry for something specific? Has your appetite changed, or simply increased? We need to recognize that God has given us appetites, just as He has given us bodies, and that our appetites have been corrupted by the sin nature just as our bodies strain against other manifestations of the curse of sin. Fasting can reveal to us these corruptions and offer us an opportunity to set things right. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The new year brings a focus on spiritual growth through fasting and living in abundance. Pastor Mike emphasizes the importance of having purpose and redeeming time to seize opportunities. He encourages us to minister and share God's love while living a spirit-filled life marked by joy and gratitude. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As we begin our 21 day fast to start the new year, let's look once again at what a biblical fast is, what it isn't, and why we do it. There are a lot of misguided notions about fasting, and even if we are accustomed to it, it's hard sometimes to keep our focus where it should be. Fasting can be extremely rewarding and can bring about some significant growth in our lives, but it can also be difficult; let's make sure we're doing it in a way that honors god and blesses us! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Going into a new year, the potential for change is perhaps at its height. As seasons shift, there are principles we can take from the Word that will help us steward transitions well. What do we take with us? What should we leave behind? And how do we approach this upcoming shift in seasons? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For centuries, the people of Israel looked for the one God would send to restore the throne of Israel. They eagerly awaited a prophet like Moses, a king like David; someone who would... teach them? Lead them? Rule them? What they needed -what they always needed- was someone to SAVE them. This is what Jesus was born for. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Last week, we examined the role of the prophet as it touches on the hopes, needs, and dreams of God's people. Now we look at another prayer that God answered, when Israel said "Give us a king!" We will see that God was using all these desires and requests to prepare His people for the advent of the Messiah. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Recognizing God's blessings and favor is essential for living abundantly. Pastor Mike shares personal experiences that illustrate God's faithfulness in various aspects of life, including work. Righteousness through Jesus brings blessings, and sharing God's goodness is vital. Seeking God's guidance and living with expectancy and gratitude are key to receiving His blessings. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As we move through the advent season, we will see that at various times in Israel's history, they looked for, and longed for God to meet their needs in very specific ways. God's answers to those longings tells us the story of His patience, His love, and His wisdom, as He worked through the centuries to bring His will to pass, not just for Israel, but for the world. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tonight Pastor Mike emphasizes the importance of recognizing divine favor and blessings beyond material wealth. He encourages us to identify as righteous in Christ and highlights the necessity of faith for receiving blessings. Feelings of insecurity are addressed, promoting a mindset of abundance. Pastor Mike also outlines steps to increase God's favor, including obedience and seeking truth. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When we think of the Bible's heroes of faith, Jephthah is not the first guy that leaps to our minds, is he? If you only remember one thing about Jephthah, it is almost certainly a bad thing (and we'll talk about that); but he is listed in the "hall of faith" for a reason, so let's talk about that, too! Jephthah was an unlikely hero, and a flawed one, but a hero nonetheless, and his life can speak to us today. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Probably the most common word in the prayers of people around the world is “please”. Most of us were raised to say “please” and “thank you". If we were as focused on what we have to be thankful to God for, our faith for the things we are asking for would increase! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gratitude towards God is essential, highlighting His goodness and mercy. The concept of abundant life is presented as a divine promise, emphasizing the difference between mere survival and a fulfilling existence. Pastor Mike talks about the support for those in need and the role of suffering for the gospel. As believers, we are encouraged to prosper through faith, with praise and worship as tools to overcome challenges. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Following up on last Sunday's message about personal evangelism, we take a look at some sobering words from the New Testament about perhaps the most important thing we can do in terms of helping someone else come to faith in Jesus Christ. The right words are important; correct doctrine is important. But this one ingredient, or lack thereof, can make all the difference. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mixed emotions arise after the election, but maintaining a Christian worldview and witness is crucial. Political outcomes do not dictate salvation; personal faith and evangelism are key. Christians are encouraged to love and unite despite differing views, guided by biblical teachings. The Bible is affirmed as the ultimate truth, and prayer for political leaders is essential. A call for revival and awakening urges Christians to support those who are lost. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.