Mission Hills Church Sermons

This week on Continuing the Conversation, Craig and Colin near the wrap-up the Legacy Lens series, which is next week, with an honest and hopeful conversation about rest, friendship, and the people who shape our story. You'll hear how Craig learned to pursue meaningful friendships later in life—and why legacy isn't just about the impact we leave, but the people we love along the way. Plus, a behind-the-scenes look at this weekend's special baptism services, where stories take center stage.

The Apostle Paul's last letter from prison reveals life's true priorities: faith and friendship. In 2 Timothy 4:6-22, discover why the great apostle focused on relationships over accomplishments in his final days.

Join us this weekend as we learn that the legacy you received doesn't have to be the legacy you leave, and discover how your true legacy is defined not by your achievements but by the relationships you love. We'll explore the tragic story of Jephthah who sacrificed what mattered most in pursuit of personal glory.

What does it really mean to leave a legacy for your kids? In this episode, host Colin McFarland sits down with Jeff Baxter—Next Gen Pastor, Israel trip leader, and teaching pastor—to unpack practical ways parents can model faith that sticks. From tech-savvy teens fact-checking mid-sermon to quiet moments of prayer during laundry, Jeff offers down-to-earth advice on building a Christ-centered legacy, no matter what stage of parenting you're in. Whether your kids are toddlers or young adults, this conversation reminds us that the goal isn't perfection—it's presence, humility, and daily dependence on God.

Join us this weekend as we learn how to parent with purpose by creating a God-centered home rooted in authentic faith. Discover practical, biblical steps to leave a lasting legacy—no matter your child's age or today's cultural challenges.

In this episode of Continuing the Conversation, Craig Smith and our Castle Rock Campus Pastor Tanner Lowe unpack the deeper layers of John 2 and the wedding at Cana—yes, a marriage message from a passage you've probably never heard used this way. From behind-the-scenes sermon prep shifts to honest talk about inviting Jesus into your relationship (even if it feels too late), they get real about what builds lasting love. Expect practical wisdom, thoughtful metaphors, and raw conversations about unmet expectations, discipleship in marriage, and how community transforms us. Whether you're married, single, or somewhere in between—there's something here for you.

Learn powerful insights into building a thriving marriage—one that invites Jesus in, leans on his timing, and finds strength even when resources run dry. Whether you're married, single, struggling, or thriving, you'll walk away with biblical encouragement and practical wisdom for navigating relationships with faith and hope.

What kind of legacy are you leaving? In this week's Continuing the Conversation, Craig and Colin dive deeper into the message from Week 1 of our new series, “The Legacy Lens.” They talk about why accomplishments fade but relationships endure, how culture gets legacy wrong, and what it looks like to grow in kindness and humility. With personal stories and thoughtful insight, this episode invites you to reframe success and lean into the people that God's placed in your life.

What matters most in life? Our relationships. In this message, we'll explore how humility is the key to healthy connections—with our spouse, friends, family, and God. You'll learn how to replace selfishness with wisdom from above and discover one simple step to start improving your relationships this week.

This message will explore the relationship between faith and doubt, specifically how we can sustain our faith when doubts arise.

Fear can lock us in, but Jesus has a way of walking right through locked doors—literally and spiritually. In this week's episode, Craig and Colin unpack John 20 and the message behind Jesus' words: “Peace be with you.” From funny behind-the-scenes sermon stories to real parenting struggles, they explore what it looks like to move from fear to faith. They talk about why we often "lock the doors" of our lives—emotionally, relationally, spiritually—and how Jesus calls us to something more. Whether you're facing fears about relationships, parenting, or simply taking a step of faith, this episode offers relatable insight and practical tools to follow the Spirit's leading. Plus, hear a powerful story from Coletta about facing fear in a delivery room and how God's peace shows up in unexpected ways.

Even when fear locks us in, Jesus shows up and brings peace—not just a feeling, but his very presence. In this message, we'll discover how Jesus calms us, commissions us, and equips us through the Holy Spirit to step into even the most uncertain situations with confidence and purpose.

In this episode, Craig and Colin continue the journey through our BEYOND series with a deep dive into John 20:11–18. Together, they explore how our emotions—especially fear and pain—can keep us from seeing what God is doing right in front of us. Why do we often run back to what's familiar when faith asks us to stay put? How can grief distort our spiritual vision? And what happens when Jesus calls us by name, just like He did with Mary? If you've ever struggled to trust God when your feelings are overwhelming, this conversation is for you. Packed with honesty, insight, and some surprising truths, this episode will encourage you to feel your feelings but follow your faith.

Explore how pain and fear can blind us to the presence of Jesus, just as Mary Magdalene didn't recognize Him through her tears. Through her story, we'll see how faith invites us to stay present in our grief so we can hear Jesus call our name and step into hope.

Ever wonder why "fear" is such a big deal after Easter? Join Craig Smith and JG as they explore the "Fear of Faith" series from John 20 and dive into practical ways to step BEYOND the guilt and shame. Discover the shocking revelation about where and when God is showing his face. What does healthy fear look like? Why does fear actually paralyze our faith? Plus, what has led Senior Pastor Craig, to look at mental health with the Easter message in his work life? Don't just hear the sermon, LIVE it!

Join us as we explore how Mary Magdalene, Peter, and the other disciple responded to the empty tomb. We'll discuss how fear can prevent us from experiencing God's work, and how moving past fear allows us to see more clearly.

It looked like the end—but it was only the beginning. Come and experience the powerful story of Easter - from the cross to the empty tomb - and see how Jesus turned death into life, despair into hope, and brokenness into restoration

Have you ever felt God nudging you to do something that made no sense—like casting a net in the same empty waters? Jesus Doesn't Need Your Boat—But You Need to Let Him Borrow It. Sometimes we hold on tightly to things, assuming God can't use our ordinary resources. Listen in as the guys tackle the end of the BEYOND sermon series and tackle what creative burnout can look like, moving from objection to obedience, and to lean in to God when things seem impossible. Don't miss this wrap-up to our latest sermon series before Easter!

This weekend, discover why Jesus—who could walk on water—chose to borrow Simon's boat, and what that means for the things God is asking you to surrender. 

In this episode of Continuing the Conversation, Craig and Colin unpack the story of the loaves and fish from John 6—and how it mirrors our own faith journey. What do you do when God asks for something that feels too small to matter or too big to give? Through some honest dialogue, a few personal stories, and practical takeaways, they explore how trust and obedience can unlock the miraculous. Whether you're wrestling with what to give or wondering if your offering is enough, this episode is for you.

Discover how God multiplies our resources when we offer them generously, turning our "not enough" into abundance beyond our expectations.

Welcome back to the Continuing the Conversation feed, here on our Messages Podcast Channel as we continue our series on generosity, BEYOND. Today Craig and Colin talk about what it means to look ahead to what God has promised, rather than lament about what has been left behind. They also talk about rhythms of rest, praying in public, and how our greatest strengths are also our greatest weaknesses.  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, we'll explore how God sometimes leads us into situations that seem like setbacks—just like he did with the Israelites at the Red Sea—to deepen our trust in him rather than in our own security. Through this powerful story, we'll see that when we step out in faith, God not only fights for us but also reveals his mighty hand in ways we never imagined.

God blesses us in so many ways. But with those incredible blessings, sometimes our trust can shift from the Giver to the gift. In order to help us grow, God sometimes tests our trust. In this message we look at how God did this with Abraham and we learn God's purpose for tests.

Welcome back to the Continuing the Conversation feed, here on our Messages Podcast Channel as we kick off our new series on generosity, BEYOND. Listen in to the podcast today as Craig and Colin talk about the difference between our comfort and God's call is being the capacity God wants us to grow as well as what it looked like when Abram let his problems overshadow God's promises, and how we still do that to this day.  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. 

Join us this weekend as we dive into Genesis 13 and explore how Abraham prioritized faith over possessions and trust over personal rights. Discover how our choices with money and relationships reflect our faith to a watching world.

Welcome back to the Continuing the Conversation feed here on our Messages Podcast Channel as we kick off our new series on generosity, BEYOND. Also, BEYOND isn't just our new sermon series, it's an initiative to accelerate toward our 100-year legacy by unleashing an unprecedented movement of Christians living on mission with Jesus on the Front Range. You can learn more by visiting the website beyond.missionhills.org. On today's episode the guys talk through the in's and outs of a giving campaign at a large church, preaching on money, and what acts of worship look like in our everyday lives. Don't miss this one! 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. 

What if the desire to acquire is shaping your life more than you realize? In this sermon, we explore the story of Cain and Abel to uncover how generosity is the key to breaking free from greed and aligning our hearts with God's design for worship and trust.

Have you ever noticed that when people say they talk to God, they sound spiritual, but when people say they hear from God, they sound crazy? Great relationships involve both speaking and listening and our relationship with God is no different. In this message we will learn how to hear from God.

Welcome back to the Continuing the Conversation feed here on our Messages Podcast Channel. Join hosts Craig and Colin as they break down the last week of our message series on overcoming temptation; Crossroads. Listen in as the guys break down hot button topics, rhythms of rest in daily life, and how to tell the difference between efficiency and a shortcut.  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. 

How can we fight the temptations we face every day? The answer is shocking! Find out this weekend.

Welcome back church! Give us grace as we try something new this week and make the leap into Video Podcasting (link below). Craig and Colin are back diving into Jesus' temptation at the top of the Temple in Matthew 4:5-7. Listen in as they break down the spectacle that could have been, head knowledge of scripture vs heart knowledge of a relationship with our Savior, and how important knowing what your identity in Christ is. You don't want to miss this one. 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, learn why overcoming temptation is more about identity than tenacity.

We're so excited to be back to you on this feed, church! Today our hosts, Craig Smith and Colin McFarland join the conversation to break down our latest message in our Crossroads series; all about navigating life's decisions in the wilderness. Listen in as Craig and Colin what it looks like to set up systems of resistance in your life, what it looks like to put yourself in the correct situation(s) by small decisions, and how to honor your relationships like Christ did. 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.  ============================= Continuing The Conversation: Feed Credits =============================

Your life is a series of decisions, each a fork in the road: building blocks to a life on purpose or one off course. You're not alone. Jesus faced similar decisions in the wilderness and provided us with a clear guide for navigating life's daily crossroads. Join us for a 3-week series as we explore Jesus' wisdom and how it applies to our daily lives.

This weekend, learn why we need to forgive others to receive God's blessings.

Discover how being led by the Holy Spirit transforms your everyday life, and learn practical strategies for recognizing the Spirit's guidance.

Explore the power of Christ-centered community and the life-changing impact of committing to deeper, authentic relationships.

Welcome back to the Continuing the Conversation Feed, church fam! Really excited for this episode today. Today we welcome Tanner Lowe, our Castle Rock Campus Pastor as he discusses his weekend on stage with our Lead Pastor (and co-host), Craig Smith. Listen in as Craig and Tanner talk through serving others and how if we're going to get real about serving others then we have to take Jesus seriously when he called us to become a servant, why we struggle to serve and be served as a culture, and the benefits we have communally and personally when we serve. 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.  ============================= Continuing The Conversation: Feed Credits =============================

Explore how to live a life of purpose this year by serving others.

Welcome back to the Continuing the Conversation Feed, and happy (late) new year, church fam! It's 2025, and we have an awesome message series we're kicking 2025 off with. Listen in today as the guys talk about how to make sure we're acting on obedience, the Church's history with their thirst for knowledge, and how to really OWN your faith this year.  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.  ============================= Continuing The Conversation: Feed Credits =============================

Let's be honest: we've all made promises to be better this year. But how do you actually make it happen? Resolved is a 5-week series that'll help you close the gap between where you are and where you want to be with Jesus. Whether you're new to faith or a lifelong believer, Resolved will help you stop hoping for a deeper relationship with God and start experiencing it.

Join us online only for a special devotional from Pastor Craig!

Jesus is the light of the world who drives back darkness and brings hope. This Christmas Eve, discover how God's presence overcomes fear, shame, and guilt, offering life and love to all who receive him!

Join us this weekend as we see how God's plans often unfold in unexpected ways. Learn how God works in hard places to bring peace and purpose to our lives.

Welcome back to the Continuing the Conversation Feed. We're only a week out from Christmas here, can you believe it? Tune in today and listen to the guys talk about creating space for Joy around the holidays, why Christmas traditions are important, and how Rivendale plays a major role in the Smith household this year.  Check out our Christmas EP anywhere that you stream music and add us to your Christmas music rotation! You can also check out our music videos on our YouTube Page. And if you're looking for somewhere to attend Christmas Eve, we would love to sit with you this year. 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.  ============================= Continuing The Conversation: Feed Credits =============================

Join us as we reflect on Mary's story and discover how making room for God through faith and worship brings joy and reveals his greatness.

Welcome back to the Continuing the Conversation Feed. We've missed you guys! Join hosts Craig Smith and Colin McFarland, as the guys dive into what wasn't said this week when regarding the "Pregnant Pause". Listen in as they talk about being right brain'd vs left brain'd, telling an old story in a new light, and what's coming up this Christmas season. We're glad to be back! Check out our Christmas EP anywhere that you stream music and add us to your Christmas music rotation! You can also check out our music videos on our YouTube Page. 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.  ============================= Continuing The Conversation: Feed Credits =============================

Ever feel like God has gone silent? Join us this week to discover how his silence is preparation for something great!

Join us to learn about the power of music and the story of Jesus' birth this Christmas season!