Mission Hills Church Sermons

The sermon may be over… but the conversation isn't. This week on Continuing the Conversation, Craig and Colin unpack one of the most uncomfortable questions Jesus asks: "Do you want to get well?" It sounds obvious—of course we do. But as they dig deeper into John 5, they explore a surprising truth: sometimes the things we want freedom from are also the things we've built our lives around. In this episode, they talk through: Why we turn "it's complicated" into "I can't" How our struggles can quietly become systems that keep us stuck The subtle ways we blame others instead of taking ownership What it actually looks like to step toward healing in real life This isn't surface-level faith talk. It's honest, practical, and sometimes uncomfortable—in the best way. If Sunday's message sparked something in you, this conversation will help you take the next step.

You've probably prayed for God to fix something in your life. A habit. A relationship. A wound. A pattern you can't seem to break. But what if Jesus asked you a surprising question first? In John 5, Jesus meets a man who has been stuck in the same condition for 38 years. Instead of immediately healing him, Jesus asks something unexpected: "Do you want to get well?" It sounds like an obvious question… until you realize something deeper. Sometimes the thing that's hurting us has also become the system we rely on. Sometimes our weakness becomes the way we get sympathy, avoid responsibility, or stay comfortable. In this message from the Answer Honestly series, Pastor Craig Smith explores how: Your issue may not actually be your real issue "It's complicated" is different than "I can't" The systems we build can keep us stuck Jesus wants to free us from more than just symptoms If you've ever felt trapped by patterns, pain, or circumstances, this message will challenge you to answer one honest question: Do you really want to get well?

What would you say if Jesus looked you in the eye and said, "What do you want me to do for you?" In this week's episode, Craig and Colin unpack one of the most disarming questions Jesus ever asked — and why the answer matters more than you might think. We're kicking off the Answer Honestly sermon series, and this first episode dives into the blind man Bartimaeus, whose bold, unfiltered ask to Jesus is a masterclass in honest prayer. Craig and Colin explore why Jesus asks questions He already knows the answer to, what gets in the way of us being that honest with God, and how to hear His voice clearly when life feels loud and crowded. Plus: Craig goes deep on a fascinating biblical rabbit hole — why the Gospel of Mark doesn't include a resurrection account, and what that might actually tell us about the heart of the gospel message.

What if the breakthrough you're waiting for is on the other side of obedience? In this message, we explore the story of Blind Bartimaeus in Mark 10 and the surprising question Jesus asks: "What do you want me to do for you?" At first glance, the answer seems obvious. But Jesus isn't just interested in the man's condition—He's inviting him into something deeper. In this message, we talk about: Why your condition doesn't get to define your identity, How focusing on what you can't do keeps you stuck, Why Jesus sometimes calls us before He cures us, What it looks like to answer God's call even when it feels awkward. Many of us are waiting for the fear to go away, the doubts to disappear, or the circumstances to change. But what if the cure is on the other side of the call? If you feel stuck behind a wall in your life—this message is an invitation to take your next step toward Jesus.

Sometimes following God starts with an idea that sounds… a little crazy. In this episode of Continuing the Conversation, Craig and Colin sit down with Dennis Ferrigno to talk about the unexpected story behind the Ark of the Covenant "rendition" used in the Power and Presence sermon series. It started with a quiet moment in prayer.  A simple prompting. And one question: What if God is actually asking me to do this? Dennis shares how that moment of obedience turned into something far bigger than he expected—bringing together artists, craftsmen, and even unexpected challenges along the way. Through it all, one theme kept showing up: when we step out in faith, God does the rest. This conversation explores: • What obedience really looks like in everyday life • How God's presence still moves through ordinary people • Why small acts of faith can lead to bigger stories than we imagine If you've ever wondered whether God might be nudging you toward something—this episode is for you.

Why do things sometimes fall apart even when our intentions are good? In this week's message from 2 Samuel 6, we explore one of the most sobering moments in Scripture. David sets out to bring the Ark of the Covenant back to Jerusalem. The worship is loud. The celebration is intense. The passion is real. But underneath the celebration are small compromises. The wrong people. The wrong method. Good intentions that ignored God's instructions. And the result is devastating. This message challenges us to wrestle with some hard but necessary questions: Are we choosing convenience over obedience? Are we substituting intensity for integrity? Are we trying to protect God instead of simply obeying Him? Are small compromises creating bigger damage than we realize? The good news? God's heart has not changed. He still wants to bless us with His presence. But we have to prepare for it. If life feels off, distant, or spiritually stuck, this message is an invitation to reset and realign.

What happens when people try to control God instead of honoring Him? In this powerful message from 1 Samuel 5, we watch what happens after the Ark of the Covenant is captured and placed in the temple of Dagon. The Philistines assume their god has defeated the God of Israel. But by morning, their idol is face down. And the next morning? It's shattered. This message reminds us that: God will not share His glory. Idols eventually fall. Pain can be a wake-up call. The power isn't in objects, rituals, or strategies. The power is in the presence of God. If you've been tempted to prop something else up in God's place—career, relationships, comfort, control—this message will challenge and encourage you. God is loving. God is holy. And He refuses to be treated lightly. Take your next step. Press play.

Have you ever asked God to bless something you never asked Him about in the first place? This week on Continuing the Conversation, we go deeper into 1 Samuel 4 and wrestle with a hard but honest question: Is God truly leading our decisions—or are we bringing Him in after we've already decided what we want? Israel went into battle without seeking God. When they lost, they tried to fix it by bringing the Ark of the Covenant—treating God's presence like a lucky charm instead of a holy reality. The result was devastating. Craig and Colin unpack: Why God doesn't bless plans we never surrendered to Him The difference between inviting God to lead and using Him as backup How our preferences can quietly outweigh God's commands What it actually means to give God "weight" in our lives If you've felt spiritually stuck, defeated, or distant from God, this conversation will challenge and encourage you. Don't just listen—take the next step. Let's keep continuing the conversation.

Have you ever asked God to bless something you never asked Him about in the first place? In this week's message, we unpack 1 Samuel 4 and wrestle with a hard question: Is God truly leading our battles—or are we just bringing Him in after we've already decided what we want? Israel went into battle without seeking God. When they lost, they tried to fix it by bringing the Ark of the Covenant—as if God's presence could be controlled like a lucky charm. What followed was devastating. Craig talk about: Why God doesn't bless plans we never ran past Him The difference between bringing God to the fight and using Him as backup How preferences can quietly outweigh God's commandments What it really means to give God "weight" in our lives If you've ever wondered why you feel spiritually stuck, defeated, or distant from God—this message is for you.

We all love the idea of second chances—but what does it really mean when God gives you one? In this powerful conversation, Craig and Colin dive into what it looked like for the Israelites to get a second chance at the Promised Land, and why some didn't get to enter. They unpack Hebrews 6, spiritual disqualification, the difference between failure and rebellion, and why God's grace always goes deeper than our past mistakes. It's honest, rich, and full of hope—and it might just change the way you think about failure and faith.

Standing at the edge of the Jordan, Israel faces another chance to choose faith over fear as God calls them to focus on His presence and follow Him into the unknown. This message reminds us that faith isn't about feeling confident—it's about stepping forward in obedience and trusting God to make a way.

The Bible's rules and detailed instructions aren't about pushing people away—they're about getting things ready for God to be close, because God has always wanted to dwell with His people. Even though sin makes that closeness complicated, the good news is that God does the heavy lifting Himself, drawing near to us not because we've earned it, but because He wants a relationship with us.

In today's behind-the-scenes conversation, Craig Smith and Colin McFarland dive deep into the end of Psalm 27 and unpack how our unspoken preferences—like avoiding pain or discomfort—can quietly hijack our spiritual direction. They reflect on how unchecked wounds influence our decisions, and how God invites us to clear out the noise so we can follow His better way. Plus, Craig shares a vulnerable look at leadership, growth, and the importance of allowing pain to stretch your capacity. Whether you're leading others, growing in your faith, or trying to heal, this episode will challenge and encourage you.

When life has you lost and lies have you surrounded, you need more than your old strategies. You need God's way forward. Discover how to silence the accusations, face the right direction, and declare God's goodness even when you can't see it yet.

Is God really silent—or is He just preparing you for something greater? In this episode of Continuing the Conversation, Craig and Colin are back and unpack the often misunderstood "silent seasons" of our faith journey. From the 400 years between the Old and New Testaments to the quiet in our own lives, we explore why God might seem distant and how to navigate those moments with wisdom and trust. We also dive into Psalm 27, discuss the power of biblical rhythms, and share personal stories of waiting, confusion, and clarity. If you've ever asked, "Where is God right now?"—this episode is for you.

When God feels silent, Psalm 27 reminds us that steady faith can hold both confidence and confusion at the same time. This message invites us to choose to seek God's presence, trusting that even in the quiet, he is still here and he's not going anywhere.

If you could ask God for anything, what would it be? David declares in Psalm 27 the one thing he asks from God. It is the answer to our deepest problems of fear and shame.

When challenges seem overwhelming, where do you turn? Learn how David's approach in Psalm 27:1-3 shows us that steady faith begins with making God our light, our salvation, and our stronghold, not by defeating every enemy, but by enduring through them.

This Christmas, learn how Jesus led us out of darkness and into the light. Just like Moses before him, Jesus entered the darkness to save us, but he offers something even greater: freedom from sin and the promise that we are truly loved by the Light of the world.

When Jesus came into history, the world was turbulent and troubled. It was controversial, chaotic, and crazy. It's messy and maddening. Today, the Christmas season can still be hectic and hurried, but in the midst of the mess, we are reminded that Christ came to bring us a type of joy that should far outlast the season and overcome our circumstances.

When the Christmas season feels more like chaos than comfort, how do we find peace? In this episode of Continuing the Conversation, Craig and Abbey Davis dive into the unexpected parts of the Christmas story—messy moments, difficult decisions, and God's presence in it all. Hear a real-life story of redemption in the middle of a car accident, unpack the tension between the law and grace, and explore why redemption often feels harder—but is always better—than rescue. Whether you're carrying your own mess or walking through someone else's, this episode is for you. Whether you're feeling stuck, unseen, or just tired, this episode offers a fresh reminder: Your mess is part of God's message. 

Learn how real peace isn't found in perfect circumstances but in God's presence right in the middle of our mess.

What if the parts of your life that feel the most broken are exactly what God wants to use? In this week's Continuing the Conversation, Craig and Colin dive into Matthew's genealogy and show us how God works through the mess—literally. From kings and scandals to skipped generations, this conversation highlights the beauty of Scripture's layered storytelling and how God weaves grace into every chapter. Plus, we get a behind-the-scenes look at biblical context, translations, and how to actually hand our mess over to God. This isn't just theology—it's real talk for real life. Whether you're feeling stuck, unseen, or just tired, this episode offers a fresh reminder: Your mess is part of God's message.

Your worst moment doesn't define your future when God is writing your story. Learn how the broken people in Jesus' genealogy found hope even after devastating failure.

What if the family tree of Jesus wasn't perfect… on purpose? In this episode of Continuing the Conversation, Craig and Colin dive into the not-so-picture-perfect genealogy of Jesus in Matthew 1 and why it matters so much for our understanding of Christmas. With personal stories, biblical insight, and a look behind the scenes of sermon preparation, this conversation brings fresh clarity to a passage we usually skim over. Learn why being faithful over fresh matters more than ever this season, and how God uses even the most broken branches to bring about redemption. Perfect for anyone feeling like their home—or heart—isn't what they hoped this Christmas.  Like, share, and comment if this episode hit home. As always, shoot us your questions at info@missionhills.org and enjoy today's episode. Also, check out our YouTube Channel and the Playlist titled "Questions with Craig" for more resources. Or submit your PRAYER REQUESTS for our care team. ============================= Continuing The Conversation: Feed Credits =============================  HOST:: Colin McFarland, Craig Smith  PRODUCTION + MIXING:: Zac Anderson  CREATIVE DIRECTOR:: Colin McFarland :: VIDEO + SEO DIRECTORS:: Zac Anderson, Maddie Brouwer A Product of The Mission Hills Podcast Network in Littleton, CO. © Mission Hills Church - All Rights Reserved

Discover what happens when our desperate pursuit of approval and belonging finally gives way to praise. Learn how Leah's journey from seeking her husband's love to praising God became part of the family line that leads to Jesus and what that means for where you're striving today.

This Thanksgiving, explore the powerful truth that you don't have to find your way to God. He came to you! See how Jesus' life, from the ordinary to the extraordinary, opened the door so you could finally come home.

In this episode of Continuing the Conversation, Craig and Colin wrap up the Unshakable series with a raw and real conversation about the internal patterns that shape our faith and future. It's not always the storm outside that shakes us—sometimes it's what's going on inside. Learn how "pressure reveals patterns," how to invite accountability, and how to practically "name it and tame it" when stress pushes your buttons. We'll talk about Moses' doubts, leadership stress, and the spiritual danger of ignoring your own heart. This is a down-to-earth, biblically grounded conversation for men who want to become more self-aware, resilient, and spiritually grounded.  Like, share, and comment if this episode hit home. As always, shoot us your questions at info@missionhills.org and enjoy today's episode. Also, check out our YouTube Channel and the Playlist titled "Questions with Craig" for more resources. Or submit your PRAYER REQUESTS for our care team. ============================= Continuing The Conversation: Feed Credits =============================  HOST:: Colin McFarland, Craig Smith  PRODUCTION + MIXING:: Zac Anderson  CREATIVE DIRECTOR:: Colin McFarland :: VIDEO + SEO DIRECTORS:: Zac Anderson, Maddie Brouwer A Product of The Mission Hills Podcast Network in Littleton, CO. © Mission Hills Church - All Rights Reserved

Discover why your greatest strength might be your biggest obstacle this weekend as we unpack Moses' tragic mistake at the rock. Learn how to identify the patterns that pressure brings out in your life and why God sometimes calls us to do things differently, even when our old way still "works."

Most people, when they hear the word "heaven," picture clouds, pearly gates, angel babies, and harps. When people hear the word "hell" they picture lava, fire, chains, and Satan as CEO with his red face and pitchfork. Both pictures are completely wrong. In this message we will learn the Biblical picture of what is to come, and why it is far better than we imagine.

You're not trying to compromise, but when the whole crowd is doing it, resistance feels impossible. Learn why faith won't keep you out of the fire, but it will get you through it.

How do you live on mission when life feels overwhelming? In this episode of Continuing the Conversation, Craig Smith and Colin McFarland unpack what it really looks like to embrace the mission of Jesus in everyday life. They introduce a helpful framework—the "4 T's" (Time, Treasure, Touch, and Territory)—to help you evaluate how you're living generously and intentionally. Whether you're burned out, busy, or just wondering if your job or routine can have spiritual impact, this conversation will encourage you, challenge you, and refresh your perspective on how to follow Jesus in real life.

God's mission isn't reserved for pastors or church leaders, it's a call for every follower of Jesus. Through Luke 10, we'll learn what it means to live sent, stay focused on God's purpose, and bring his peace and hope wherever we go.

When life gets hard, God designed the church to be a place of belonging, encouragement, and support. In this message, Jeff Baxter reminds us that we become unshakable when we lean into the community Jesus created.

Sometimes God's plan doesn't look like the route we expected. In this episode, Craig and Colin dive into the Apostle Paul's harrowing journey through a shipwreck in Acts 27—and what it teaches us about surrender, trust, and faith in life's storms. They explore the tension between divine sovereignty and human responsibility, how to “let go of the ship,” and why managing your margin isn't just a self-care trend—it's biblical. Get ready for an honest conversation about exhaustion, obedience, theology, and walking the middle road with wisdom. This is an episode for anyone who's facing uncertainty and wants to grow deeper in faith—not just survive the storm, but walk through it with strength. As always, shoot us your questions at info@missionhills.org and enjoy today's episode. Also, check out our YouTube Channel and the Playlist titled "Questions with Craig" for more resources. Or submit your PRAYER REQUESTS for our care team.

When life feels like one storm after another, how do you hold onto hope? Learn how God uses our broken pieces, transforms our adversity into access, and redeems even our deepest wounds to bring healing to others.

In this episode of Continuing the Conversation, Craig and Colin reflect on a powerful weekend message filled with moments of hope, especially for those walking through real-life storms. They unpack the cultural climate around identity and the church, the storm imagery in scripture, and how God often places us in hard seasons for a greater purpose. This episode isn't just for those who were there on Sunday—it's for anyone needing a fresh dose of perspective and a reminder: there's still hope. As always, shoot us your questions at info@missionhills.org and enjoy today's episode. Also, check out our YouTube Channel and the Playlist titled "Questions with Craig" for more resources. Or submit your PRAYER REQUESTS for our care team.

Life's storms can hide God's provision, but hidden doesn't mean hopeless. Discover where real confidence comes from when you can't see the way forward.

Building your life on the gospel provides steadiness and purpose, helping you weather life's “storms” by offering unshakable inner peace, wisdom, and strength. This shifts your worth and identity away from temporary things, fostering a deeper faith and hope in Christ, and transforming your inner self to become more like Him through His love, wisdom, and grace.

You're not just fighting people, you're facing a real enemy. Discover how humility disarms the devil, opens the door to God's power, and leads to true freedom in Jesus.

In this episode of Continuing the Conversation, Craig and Colin unpack one of the most overlooked but deeply relevant concepts in the Bible: idolatry. But this isn't just about golden calves or ancient cultures—it's about the subtle ways we still worship false gods today. Craig walks us through the history, theology, and surprising humanity behind idolatry, and shows how it affects everything from how we view God… to how we view ourselves. They also dive into the deep end with a conversation about the limits of human understanding, open theism, and what we do when God seems to “change His mind.”

We all worship something. The question is what, and it's literally changing who you become every single day. In this message, we dive into the golden calf story to uncover the worship war happening in your heart and how to finally win it.

You might be closer to God than you think. Discover the guide who's been with you all along.

What does it mean to be Spirit-led and scripturally grounded? In the final episode of our Steady Hands, Ready Hearts series, Craig Smith and Colin McFarland dive deep into 1 Thessalonians 5 and explore how to live in the creative tension between hearing from the Holy Spirit and staying rooted in biblical truth. Craig shares what didn't make the weekend sermon, how the Spirit changed the trajectory of his upcoming sermon series, and why spiritual discernment isn't about certainty—it's about faithful obedience. Whether you're processing a big decision or just want to grow in listening to God, this one's for you. As always, shoot us your questions at info@missionhills.org and enjoy today's episode. Also, check out our YouTube Channel and the Playlist titled "Questions with Craig" for more resources. Or submit your PRAYER REQUESTS for our care team.

Joy is a thermostat, not a thermometer—but most Christians are living like it's the opposite. Find out how to pursue peace above you, around you, within you, and with God in this practical message from 1 Thessalonians 5.

To live with ready hearts means to live in light of eternity. Paul challenges us in 1 Thessalonians to look forward to the return of Jesus. Heaven is not just about the hereafter, it is about the here and now. Until Jesus returns or calls us home, there is work to be done to bring the ways of heaven to earth.

Discovering why God measures success by relationships, not ripples. Join us as we unpack the power of contentment and how "God-taught love" in your everyday life becomes your greatest mission.

What do sexual purity and selfishness have in common? More than you think. In this episode, Craig and Colin unpack one of the most uncomfortable but essential shifts in Paul's message from 1 Thessalonians: from the topic of sexual immorality to the deeper issue of selfishness. It's not just about behavior—it's about the heart behind it. You'll hear how this shift creates a wider net that captures all of us—and how recognizing selfishness in our everyday lives can lead to freedom, purpose, and transformation.

Discover what God really says about sexual intimacy, the difference between trying to appease God versus actually pleasing him, plus 4 practical steps to find real freedom through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Waiting is hard. But what if the waiting is actually doing something in us? In this episode, Craig Smith and guest host Stephen Boyer explore why waiting matters, what it produces in us, and how God uses the “in between” seasons to clarify, mature, and grow our faith. From baked potatoes and smoked ribs to Paul's deep connection with the Thessalonians, this conversation is full of practical insights, theological depth, and laugh-out-loud moments. They also tackle a hot take on the Garden of Eden you've probably never heard before, plus why discipleship needs both content and community to thrive.  Want to grow in your faith? This one's for you.  Subscribe for weekly episodes.  Also available on Spotify & Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. As always, shoot us your questions at info@missionhills.org and enjoy today's episode. Also, check out our YouTube Channel and the Playlist titled "Questions with Craig" for more resources.

This weekend, discover why God makes us wait and how to wait well.