Living Word Family Church Sermon Podcast

In talking about holiness, we have heard more than once that we need to see the world through the eyes of Christ, and think the way Jesus thinks, or words to that effect. The Bible talks about us having the mind of Christ, which seems astonishing. What does it mean to have the mind of Christ? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We have been taught (correctly) that in order to follow God, in order to please God, in order to live by faith, we MUST know the Bible. But it is possible to have knowledge of what the bible says, and still not be right with God. There is a right way to read the Bible, and that right way produces holiness in our lives. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tonight, Pastor Mike taught on the importance of *truly knowing God* — not just being acquainted with Him. He reminded us that relationships grow through time, pursuit, and desire, and our relationship with God is no different. Using Paul's cry, “that I may know Him,” Pastor Mike emphasized that even seasoned believers must continually seek God's presence. He encouraged us to cultivate hunger, draw near intentionally, and pursue God with our whole heart. When we do, God reveals Himself, strengthens us, and equips us for the works He's called us to do. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today's message speaks directly to a culture that either fears everything or fears nothing. Pastor Scott explained that biblical fear is not panic, anxiety, or dread — it's reverence, seriousness, and awareness of God's presence. He contrasted unhealthy fear (fear of man, fear of failure, fear of danger) with healthy fear (fear of dishonoring God). This message invites our community to reject the fears that paralyze us and embrace the fear that protects us — the fear of the Lord that leads to wisdom, obedience, and holiness. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this series on holiness, we have referred often to Romans 12:2 and the transformation that takes place when our minds are renewed. Today, we're going to focus more on the rest of that verse, and how knowing and proving the will of God can produce holiness. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We all know we are to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. But the New Testament speaks of another means of transformation. What happens when we really look at God? What would happen if the Lord actually appeared to you? Would it change you forever? You might be surprised by how the bible answers that question! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Genesis records that "Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness." Paul seizes upon this truth in his letters to the Romans and the Galatians. James quotes it in his epistle. Faith is counted as righteousness; so what is the importance of obedience? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tonight, Pastor Mike continued teaching on prayer, reminding us that prayer is the greatest untapped power in the world — not a ritual, but a relationship. Jesus modeled a life of prayer, withdrawing to quiet places and returning with power, clarity, and direction. Pastor taught that prayer is how we receive instructions from “headquarters,” how we abide in Christ, and how we bear fruit. We were challenged to move from visiting God occasionally to *abiding* in Him daily — through prayer, the Word, and fellowship with believers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Often, when people turn away from Christianity, the church, or "traditional values", it is simply an expression of their desire to find their own way rather than simply to conform to certain arbitrary standards. But there is a difference between conformity and common conviction. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In “Red Flags,” Pastor Matt teaches on the importance of recognizing the Holy Spirit's warnings and promptings as we navigate decisions in life. Using practical examples—from beach warning flags to Paul's perilous voyage in Acts 27—he shows how God lovingly alerts us to danger, guides our steps, and protects us from unnecessary storms. This message encourages believers to cultivate a close relationship with God, listen to wise counsel, and follow the Spirit's leading with humility and discernment. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We have spent weeks looking at principles and definitions of holiness. Today we look at some of the nuts and bolts. What does it mean to walk in holiness? What, specifically, is expected of us? The answer might surprise you. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pastor Mike shared an encouraging message about the power of prayer and how God responds when we seek Him. He explained that prayer isn't just a spiritual habit — it's how we receive strength, direction, and the power of the Holy Spirit. If you're looking for hope, clarity, or a fresh start, prayer is the place to begin. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nonconformity is something some people treat like a badge of honor. People want to stand out, to be different, to express themselves, and often, end up being different for difference's sake. But when the bible speaks about conformity, God is saying something completely different. Are we called to express our individuality, or are we actually called to conform to something else? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tonight Pastor Mike brought a strong, timely reminder about the power and necessity of prayer. Using Jesus' words in Luke 18 — “men ought always to pray and not faint” — he challenged us to return to a lifestyle of prayer, both personally and as a church. He emphasized that revival has always been birthed through prayer, unity, and believers who refuse to quit. Pastor Mike walked us through Jesus' prayer in Gethsemane, the authority God has given us on earth, and the biblical promise that the “effective, fervent prayer of a righteous person avails much.” This was a call to awaken, to pray with purpose, and to believe God for revival in our homes, our church, and our nation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

God has more planned for us than simply taking us to Heaven when we die. He could take us now if that's all there is to it. We are here -now- for God's purposes. We are co-laborers with Christ in God's plan of salvation. But we cannot be and do what He has called us to be and do if we are determined to blend with the world that surrounds us. To be holy is to be different. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tonight Pastor Mike reminded us of something our hearts desperately need: *don't forget the benefits of God.* From Psalm 103, he walked us through the goodness, mercy, healing, forgiveness, and protection God has already provided — benefits we often overlook when life gets heavy. He encouraged us to choose praise, to speak God's Word over our situations, and to remember that God has redeemed us, delivered us, healed us, and crowned us with lovingkindness. This was a refreshing, faith‑building reminder that God has been faithful, is faithful, and will continue to be faithful. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Perhaps the oldest philosophical challenge to Christianity is "if God is all good and all powerful, why is there evil and suffering in the world?" But we might also ask, "if God is holy and just and all powerful, why do bad people seem to be blessed?" The Bible actually has a lot to say about this question, so let's take a look! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Preventative maintenance is something we employ in many different areas of our lives, and our spirits should be no exception. How is your spiritual health? Scripture lays out a clear progression of man's tendency to drift away from God. But there is a path back. And that path always leads us to the same merciful God who loved us even while we were drifting. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does it mean to be righteous? The scriptures clearly show that righteousness is imputed to us. That is, Jesus took on our sin so that He could clothe us with HIs righteousness. But there is another side of righteousness; a way of living that sets us apart. We can go our own way, or we can walk in paths of righteousness. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We continue to look at the important topic of holiness, with a focus on two different ways to think about righteousness. Is it a behavior, or is it an imputed condition? Do we behave righteously or are we made righteous? No surprise that it's actually both, but what does the Bible actually say? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Following Jesus isn't about trying to be perfect — it's about letting God change us from the inside out. Pastor Scott shared how real love leads to real transformation, and how faith becomes visible in the way we live, speak, and treat others. God invites every one of us into a life of purpose, growth, and genuine love. You're welcome to explore that journey with us. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The disciples should not have been shocked when Jesus was crucified; He told them it would happen. Three times.They were overjoyed to find Him risen from the dead, but they shouldn't have been surprised. He told them it would happen. Three times.Jesus said many powerful and wonderful things and all of them were confirmed by the resurrection. Are you ready to take Him at His word? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In a culture eager to reshape Jesus into something more comfortable, Pastor Scott confronts the growing trend of redefining Christianity without the cross. Drawing from Scripture and the events of Palm Sunday, he shows that Jesus didn't avoid the cross—He walked toward it on purpose. His death wasn't a political execution or a symbolic gesture; it was the necessary sacrifice for our sin. Pastor Scott warns against becoming what Paul called “enemies of the cross,” those who claim Christ but reject His lordship and the meaning of His death. This message calls us back to the true Gospel: Jesus gave His life as a ransom for many, and understanding the crucifixion is the only way to truly appreciate the resurrection and live a life worthy of His sacrifice. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week's message, David Gulliford invites us into a rare and needed posture: stillness before God. Drawing from Psalm 46:10, Hebrews 12, Exodus 23, Luke 10, and the life of Jesus, he shows how God forms us “little by little,” corrects us as beloved children, and meets us in quiet places far more than in our busyness.Whether you feel overwhelmed, overcommitted, or spiritually distracted, this message calls you back to the one thing Jesus said is needed: sitting at His feet, hearing His voice, and allowing Him to shape us into Christlikeness.Be still. Know Him. Let Him speak. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In our series on holiness, we continue to wrestle with the temptation to believe that we can become holy by simply trying harder. We are indeed commanded, "be holy, for I Am holy." But we often confuse terms like "righteousness", "holiness", and "sanctification" What's the difference? The importance of understanding this goes beyond proper terminology; it is practical, and it is life changing. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We live in a culture of caricatures. Often, the things and people that stir up hateful feelings have been presented to us in simplified and often inaccurate forms, leading to knee-jerk reactions and uninformed opinions. Even God has been treated like that. But what you find when you actually encounter Jesus Christ will surprise you! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With all the emphasis in the Bible on obedience, it's easy to fall into the trap of legalism when working out our salvation. But hard things are made easier when love is what drives us. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bible teacher and author Tony Cooke graduated from RHEMA Bible Training Center in 1980 and received degrees from North Central University (Bachelor's in Church Ministries) and Liberty University (Master's in Theological Studies/Church History). His ministerial background includes pastoral ministry, teaching in Bible schools, and directing a ministerial association. Tony's passion for teaching the Bible has taken him to more than thirty nations and nearly all fifty states. He is the author of sixteen books, of which, various titles have been translated and published in more than a dozen other languages Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We begin a series today on two subjects that often create a kind of tension in our spiritual journeys. Sometimes we feel very much like the choice we are facing is between being happy or being holy. But the word of God tells us not to simply obey God, but to DELIGHT in Him. Holiness and Happiness are NOT mutually exclusive! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week's message, Pastor Mike unpacks the incredible strength God releases through prayer. Drawing from James 5:16, he reminds us that heartfelt and persistent prayer isn't just a spiritual exercise — it's a force that moves heaven and shapes lives.We'll explore how prayer requires humility, because coming to God means admitting we can't do everything on our own. Pastor Mike also highlights how the early church depended on continual prayer to grow, endure trials, and see God work in miraculous ways.This message encourages us to slow down, bow low, and press into a deeper, more consistent life of prayer — because when God empowers our prayers, they become dynamic and full of tremendous power. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We're honored to welcome Neal & Danette Childs from RUN International! Their heart for reaching the unreached and taking the Gospel where it's never been heard is powerful and contagious.Come ready to be challenged, encouraged, and inspired to live the Great Commission right where you are. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pastor Mike continues the Reset and Renew series with a powerful call to clear out the lies, habits, and thought patterns that pull us away from God's best. Pulling from God's Word he reminds us that real renewal begins when we choose Truth over noise, Scripture over opinion, and God's voice over the enemy's lies.This message challenges us to put off the “old man,” reject ungodly thinking, and let the Word reshape how we see ourselves, our choices, and our future. When we anchor our minds in God's Truth, freedom follows — and the life He promises becomes clearer than ever. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pastor Mike brings a timely reminder that real reset isn't just a momentary fast or a quick spiritual tune‑up — it's a daily return to God. Drawing from God's Word, he calls us to renew our minds, refocus our hearts, and turn away from the distractions that pull us off course. In a world that feels louder and more chaotic by the day, this message encourages us to seek God's direction, trust His plans, and live with urgency and purpose in these last days. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today Pastor Mike shares a heartfelt reminder that we don't walk this journey alone. Life brings seasons that stretch us, moments that feel heavy, and challenges that test our resolve — but God calls us to keep running with endurance.As a church family, we're learning to say together: I will not be defeated. I will not quit. Not because we're strong on our own, but because our lives belong to God, and He gives us purpose that carries us forward.Through Hebrews 12:1 and John 17:1–5, we're invited to refocus our hearts, remember why we're here, and trust that God is shaping something meaningful in us as we keep going. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What is the best thing in your life? What is the one thing you lack that would make you happy? What is the best thing you can imagine? The landscape of history, and our lives, is littered with the remnants of shattered dreams and unfulfilled longings. But the problem is usually that we have been pursuing the wrong things. The right thing is surprisingly close to you even now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As usual, we are beginning the new year with a three week fast! As we take stock of the near future and reflect on the recent past, let's make it our goal during this fast to focus not on what we are laying down, but on what we are leaning into! Let's see this season as a time to feast on God's word and His presence. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As we embark on another new year, we need to learn to recognize the moves and promptings of God. Once we do, how will we choose to respond to them? Our answer to that question will determine our success as stewards of all He has entrusted to us. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

During our healing series, we talked a LOT about faith. As we prepare to celebrate the birth of Jesus -the incarnation- let's notice how much faith is involved in that; especially that first Christmas... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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

Some people believe in healing, pray for healing, and "check all the boxes" as it were, yet remain sick or die. Is this evidence that healing is NOT always God's will? What does the word tell us about times when believers are suffering? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

"Speak the Word" is a powerful reminder that our words carry weight. Pastor Mike teaches that life and death are in the power of the tongue (Proverbs 18:21), and what we confess shapes our future. When we declare God's Word over our lives, we align ourselves with His promises - even when circumstances don't seem to change. Drawing from Job 22:28 and James 3:6, this message challenges us to speak life, trust God's timing, and boldly proclaim His truth. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As we continue to look at how Jesus desires us to receive healing, we cannot ignore what the scriptures say about the power of God's word coming out of OUR mouths! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In a world filled with countless voices and opinions, it can be hard to know who to trust. Scripture reminds us that true victory and guidance come only from God's Word. Pastor Mike will share how the Word of God, hidden in our hearts, equips us to resist sin, stand firm under pressure, and speak truth when it matters most. Though our flesh often desires what is contrary to God's will, His Word provides clarity, strength, and courage. By treasuring and meditating on Scripture daily, we learn to trust God's voice above all others and live as overcomers through the "blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony". Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the scriptures, we see MANY examples of supernatural healing, and several different methods by which healing was manifested. We see the prayers of prophets, the laying on of hands, bathing in the river, mud applied to eyes, and so forth. Once we are convinced that it's God's will that we be healed, is there a right way to receive as New Testament believers. There may not be one right way, but the scriptures show us the BEST way. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this powerful message, Pastor Mike reminds us that our words carry weight and shape our lives. Drawing from Mark 11:23 and Romans 10:8, he teaches that what we confess with our mouth reflects the faith in our heart. When we speak God's Word, we align ourselves with His promises and open the door to transformation. Discover how to put your mouth where your faith is, and why your confession determines who you are and what you have in life. This message will challenge and inspire you to speak boldly, live faithfully, and declare God's truth over every situation.

Two historical challenges to the belief that God always wills our healing are the book of Job and Paul's thorn in the flesh. One seems to indicate that God afflicts us to test our faith, and the other seems to show that God afflicts us to keep us humble. Let's take a closer look at Job's trials and Paul's thorn. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this stirring message, Pastor Mike draws a powerful parallel between military battle readiness and spiritual preparedness. Just as the Navy trains relentlessly for unseen battles, believers must stay vigilant in a world full of deception.This sermon challenges us to go beyond surface-level faith—church attendance alone won't cut it. We're called to know the truth, abide in God's Word, and walk wisely in these last days.Whether you're a seasoned believer or just beginning your journey, this message will stir your spirit and sharpen your focus. It's time to be battle-ready—for real. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We know God CAN heal. And we have spent some time in this series looking at the scriptural evidence for God's WILL to heal. But that is only one side of the coin. The other important factor, specifically mentioned in many of the healing miracles of Jesus, is the faith of the person needing healing. What does faith for healing look like, and how big a part does it play in the whole process? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Did Jesus heal to prove He was God? Was His healing primarily for a sign? Or was it something more? We've already examined the Old Covenant case for God's will to heal. Let's take a look at how that will was expressed most powerfully and obviously: in the earthly ministry of Jesus Christ. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tonight, Pastor Mike focuses on the importance of living in victory as part of God's will. He discusses spiritual blessings and prosperity, emphasizing that God desires abundance. Knowledge of God's word is essential for overcoming struggles, and maintaining control over emotions is crucial. Pastor Mike encourages us to focus on godly thoughts, trusting God, and transitioning from a poor soul to a prosperous one through faith and action. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There is a connection between healing and forgiveness. When we understand that connection correctly, it is liberating and can create breakthroughs; misunderstood, it can be one of the greatest roadblocks to receiving healing. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.