Mission Hills Church Sermons

Family tension. Generational mistakes. Repeating the same patterns over and over again. In this episode of Continuing the Conversation, Craig Smith and Colin McFarland dive deeper into Genesis and unpack the surprising purpose behind biblical history. Is the Bible just recording events… or is it trying to reshape how we see the world? From Jacob and Esau to Isaac's passivity, this conversation explores how unhealthy patterns get passed down through generations—and why God keeps inviting people into something different. You'll hear: Why Genesis is more than a history book How worldview formation shapes our lives today The hidden dysfunction underneath the Jacob and Esau story Why "following Jesus" is different than simply "knowing the Bible" How generational patterns continue unless someone breaks them This episode is honest, insightful, practical, and deeply relevant if you've ever looked at your family history and thought, "I don't want to repeat this anymore."

Esau didn't lose his birthright because it was taken, he traded it away because he was in a hurry. Find out what his story reveals about the blessings we're missing in our own lives.

Feeling exhausted? Overwhelmed? Like you're running on empty no matter how hard you try? In this powerful message from Isaiah 40:27–31, Pastor Craig Smith shares a hope-filled truth for anyone tired of just surviving. God never intended for you to carry life's weight alone—and He offers something better than grit, hustle, or trying harder. This message explores: Why overwhelm can make us feel forgotten by God The difference between a calling and a craving Why some of us are exhausted from running in the wrong direction How God renews strength for those who trust Him What it looks like to run without growing weary If you've been spiritually, emotionally, or mentally drained, this message is an invitation to slow down, refocus, and discover the strength only God can provide. Your exhaustion doesn't have to define you. There's hope. There's rest. And there's a better way forward.

Ever feel overwhelmed by life… like your problems are just too big? What if the issue isn't the size of your problems—but the way you see them? In this episode of Continuing the Conversation, Craig Smith and Colin McFarland unpack a powerful mindset shift from the Overcoming Overwhelmed series. They explore what it means to make God your "big hammer"—and how reframing your challenges through faith can move you from anxiety to anticipation. You'll hear: Why your perspective matters more than your situation A simple daily question that can reshape your thinking How God works through every situation—even the hard ones Why our understanding of God is often too small How to trust God when you can't fully understand Him If Sunday's message left you thinking, this conversation will help you take the next step.

Feeling overwhelmed? You're not alone—and you're not stuck. In this message from our Overcoming Overwhelm series, we explore a powerful truth: it's not the size of your problems that's crushing you—it's the size of your perspective. Through Isaiah 40, we're reminded that nothing compares to God. Not your stress. Not your fear. Not the weight you've been carrying. When life gets loud and heavy, it's easy to focus on what's right in front of you. But what if the answer isn't fixing your problems… but lifting your eyes? This message will help you: Reframe what's overwhelming you Recognize what you've been leaning on instead of God Take a practical step to bring God back into focus You don't need smaller problems. You need a bigger view of God.

Feeling overwhelmed? You're not alone. But what if the real issue isn't what you're facing… it's how you're seeing it? In this powerful message from Isaiah 40, we're reminded of four life-changing truths: God is bigger than anything you'll ever face God is wiser than anything you don't understand God is stronger than anything working against you God is worthy of your trust—even when life feels heavy If you've ever asked: "Does God see what I'm going through?" "Does He care?" "Can He actually do anything about it?" This message is for you. Because what you focus on shapes what grows—and when you fix your eyes on God, everything else starts to fall into place.

Are you overwhelmed… or just under-supported? In this powerful message from Isaiah 40, Craig Smith challenges a common assumption: that our stress comes from everything happening around us. But what if the real issue is what we're standing on? If you've been trying to push through life on your own strength—or placing your trust in people, success, security, or "shiny things" that don't last—this message will help you see why that approach keeps falling apart. You'll discover: Why overwhelm isn't about your circumstances The hidden danger of "shiny things" that promise peace but don't deliver How your focus shapes your faith (and your future) What it looks like to transfer your trust to something that won't fail God doesn't want you stuck in survival mode. He offers a foundation that can actually hold you—no matter what life throws your way.

Feeling overwhelmed? You're not alone—and you're not stuck. In this episode of Continuing the Conversation, Craig and Colin unpack the real reason so many of us feel overwhelmed… and why the first step out isn't doing more—it's seeing differently. Building on this week's message, they explore what the Bible really means by "wilderness" (hint: it's not a peaceful mountain hike), and how seasons that feel empty or frustrating might actually be shaping something deeper in you. You'll discover: Why "wilderness" in the Bible feels so overwhelming—and what that means for you The difference between a gap mindset and a gain mindset How to find growth even when nothing seems to be changing Why you might not be as stuck as you think If you've been feeling stretched, stuck, or just tired… this conversation will help you take a breath—and take your next step.

You're not the only one feeling overwhelmed. In fact, most of us are carrying more than we were ever designed to handle—and it's starting to show. In this episode of Continuing the Conversation, we go deeper into Isaiah 40 and unpack one powerful truth: God wants to help you overcome what has you overwhelmed. But here's the twist—it might not start with your circumstances. It might start with your orientation. We talk about: Why overwhelm is so common right now (and why it makes sense) The difference between God changing your situation and strengthening you in it How your focus, habits, and inputs shape your anxiety The practical first step that leads to real change This is a real conversation about real life—no pressure, no perfect answers. Just honest steps forward.

Easter isn't just something to believe—it's something that should transform your life. But what happens after the celebration fades? Why do so many people drift back into old habits, old fears, and old patterns? In this episode of Continuing the Conversation, Craig and Colin tackle some of the biggest questions coming out of Easter: How do you move from believing in Jesus to actually being changed by Him? Where should you even start reading the Bible? Why do people lose momentum in their faith—and how do you avoid it? What does the resurrection actually accomplish? This conversation is real, practical, and deeply encouraging. If you've ever felt stuck, disconnected, or unsure what your next step is—this episode will help you take it.

Easter is the most important moment in history… So why do so many of us miss what it really means? In this powerful Easter message from John 13, Craig Smith walks through a moment most people overlook—when Jesus asked His disciples a simple but life-changing question: "Do you understand what I have done for you?" Before the cross. Before the resurrection. Jesus gave them a picture of everything He was about to do—and why. In this message, you'll discover: Why the cross was never an accident—it was always the plan What Jesus' actions reveal about His love for you The difference between religion and the gospel Why pride keeps us from receiving what Jesus already did This message is honest, direct, and deeply personal. Because the question isn't just for them—it's for you.

Life doesn't usually fall apart at the beginning or the end—it happens in the middle. In this episode, Craig and Colin talk about what it looks like to live in that space. The place where things feel uncertain, stretched, and sometimes overwhelming—but also where real growth happens. They reflect on Jesus calming the storm and the question He asks His disciples: "Why are you so afraid?" It's not just about fear—it's about trust. You'll hear: Why the middle is both hard and meaningful How God often does His best work in the in-between What it looks like to follow Jesus, not just understand Him And how one question from Jesus can change everything If you've ever felt stuck or unsure of what God is doing in your life, this episode is for you.

Ever feel like you're stuck in the middle? Not where you used to be… Not where you want to go… Just somewhere messy, uncertain, and honestly a little scary. In this message from Mark 4, Jesus asks a question that cuts straight through the noise: "Why are you so afraid?" It's not just about fear. It's about trust. In this week's message, Craig talks about: Why the "middle" of life feels so hard—and why God often does His best work there The difference between following Jesus casually and actually committing to Him What fear reveals about what we believe about God How to move forward when you feel stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure If you've been anxious, stuck, or questioning whether God really cares… this message is for you.

The sermon sparked something… now let's go deeper. In this episode of Continuing the Conversation, we unpack one of the most important questions Jesus ever asked: "Who do you say I am?" But this time, we go behind the scenes—into sermon prep, what didn't make it into the message, and the deeper implications for our everyday lives. We talk about: Why it's possible to say all the right things about Jesus—and still miss Him How our view of Jesus shapes our identity, anxiety, and daily decisions The difference between knowing about Jesus and actually following Him Why spiritual disciplines aren't about earning God's love—but learning to live from it This conversation is honest, practical, and deeply personal. If you've ever felt like your faith is more in your head than your heart, this one's for you.

What if you could say all the right things about Jesus… and still completely miss Him? In this message from Matthew 16, we look at one of the most important questions Jesus ever asked: "Who do you say I am?" It's not just a theological question—it's personal. And how you answer it shapes the direction of your entire life. We explore how easy it is to put Jesus in a box—keeping Him useful, but not letting Him be Lord. We also unpack the powerful truth that your identity isn't something you achieve—it's something you receive. And when you truly understand who Jesus is, it changes how you see yourself, your purpose, and your mission. This message will challenge you to stop settling for a comfortable version of faith and step into the life Jesus is actually inviting you into.

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.