MOOR of the Word with Pastor Chuck Pourciau

Paul boldly preached the kingdom of God in Ephesus, facing hardened hearts and open opposition. Yet the Word spread powerfully throughout Asia. The gospel is not a passive truth—it's a powerful force. When we proclaim it boldly, lives change. Let today remind you that the gospel can't work through silence—proclaim it, and watch what God will do.

Ministry is often lonely and discouraging, and Paul's journey to Corinth was no exception. Yet God surrounded him with community—old friends, new companions, and faithful provision. When results seem scarce and resistance is strong, we find our greatest encouragement not in outcomes, but in faithfulness to our calling. Be reminded today: your responsibility is obedience, and God handles the rest.

In Thessalonica, Paul reasoned from the Scriptures with boldness, declaring that Jesus is the Christ. His message disrupted the norm, unsettled the status quo, and persuaded many. We're called to do the same—to share the gospel with courage and clarity. This episode is a call to bold, Bible-centered living that seeks to turn upside-down hearts right side up.

Timothy's call to ministry began with character, was confirmed by others, and involved personal sacrifice. In Acts 16, we see that following God's call often requires surrender—not to earn salvation, but to remove barriers to the gospel. Paul's circumcision of Timothy wasn't compromise—it was strategy. When God calls, are you willing to go and let go?

When church conflict arises, the Word of God must be the final word. James closes the first church council by pointing to Scripture, affirming that God's plan has always included the Gentiles. Experience, miracles, and testimonies all aligned with the truth of God's Word. Disagreements may persist, but when the Bible speaks clearly, the church must follow.

Peter reminded the early church that the Gentiles received the Holy Spirit not by works, but by faith. His words echo through the centuries: “We are saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus, just as they are.” In gospel matters, there's no room for adding requirements. This episode calls us to cling to the simplicity and power of grace—no additives, no exceptions.

When believers from different backgrounds collide on gospel essentials, conflict is inevitable. Acts 15 shows us how Paul and Barnabas took a firm stand when grace came under fire. This wasn't about preference—it was about preserving the truth that salvation is a gift, not something we earn. When the gospel is at stake, unity means standing firm on what matters most.

Before Barnabas and Saul were sent to the nations, they were faithful right where they were. The Spirit speaks to those already ministering. This episode reminds us that we don't need to force open doors—we need to serve faithfully now. When the time is right, God will send and supply exactly what's needed.

While Peter slept in chains, the church prayed—and heaven responded. God broke through the impossible with miraculous freedom. But even those praying struggled to believe it. This episode reminds us of the power of fervent prayer, the peace that comes from trusting God, and the surprise of answered prayers that exceed expectations.

Persecution scattered the church—but it didn't stop the mission. In fact, it birthed the first Gentile church in Antioch. Through ordinary believers sharing Jesus in unfamiliar places, God built something extraordinary. Sometimes God leads us down unexpected roads to reach unexpected people. Will we see the opportunity?

Peter's vision forced him to confront his deeply held religious traditions. God was doing something new—and it required Peter to let go of personal preferences and embrace the full scope of God's mission. The lesson? We must hold our customs loosely and God's Word tightly, remembering that gospel unity transcends cultural norms.

Cornelius and Peter's story marks a turning point in the early church—a shift from exclusion to inclusion. In a world prone to preference and prejudice, Acts 10 reminds us that God's gospel is for all people. As the Spirit prepared both Cornelius and Peter, we're reminded that God initiates and orchestrates salvation. The church must reflect that heart.

Saul's journey to Damascus ended not in destruction but in transformation. Confronted by Jesus, the persecutor became a believer. This message unpacks the radical grace of God that still meets us where we are, changes our hearts, and calls us into submission and purpose.

Stephen's death unleashed a wave of persecution—but also a wave of gospel expansion. What looked like tragedy became mission. This message reminds us that even in pain, God has purpose. The church scattered, but the gospel spread. What ministry opportunity might be hidden in your difficulty?

Nehemiah didn't just dedicate a wall—he led the people in worship, purity, and joyful celebration. Their unity and commitment reflected a life reordered around God. Revival isn't about a building; it's about a people giving God their whole hearts.

In a position of power, Nehemiah chose selflessness over personal gain, modeling godly leadership. His integrity shaped the people around him and honored the God he served. What you do with your influence matters. Lead with character that outlasts your title.

Nehemiah's enemies tried everything—from intimidation to manipulation—to halt his mission. Yet through discernment and prayer, Nehemiah refused to be swayed. When fear looms large and distractions threaten to derail your purpose, remember: the work is too great to come down. Keep building.

Before the Sanhedrin, Peter's declaration rang clear: “We must obey God rather than men.” Even in the face of danger, Peter didn't back down from proclaiming the gospel. His confidence came not from himself, but from being filled with the Spirit. May we too live with fearless obedience.

When faced with threats, the early church didn't pray for safety—they prayed for boldness. Their request wasn't for deliverance but for courage to proclaim the truth. God answered their prayer with power. This same boldness is available to us today if we will ask Him.

Separation in Scripture isn't just about what we leave behind—it's about what we commit to. The Jews renewed their covenant by turning from worldly ways and turning to God's Word, God's people, purity, and responsibility. A life fully devoted to the Lord demands a different kind of commitment.

True worship begins with honest confession. As the people of Israel heard God's Word, they were moved to grieve, separate from sin, and confess. When we stop minimizing our sin and start confronting it before a holy God, we open the door to real freedom and deeper intimacy with Him.

Rebuilding the wall of Jerusalem wasn't easy, and Nehemiah knew it would require determination. Faced with insults and opposition, the people of God pressed on—not with retaliation, but with prayer and faithful work. When we persevere through criticism by relying on God, we become part of something far greater than ourselves.

Ezra's influence came not from charisma or position but from his devotion to God's Word—he studied it, lived it, and taught it. This message challenges us to do the same. If we believe the Bible is God's Word, we must live like it. Because the future of our faithfulness depends on that one belief.

Thomas' honest doubt led to one of the most powerful confessions in Scripture: “My Lord and my God!” Jesus met him with grace, not rebuke. This message invites us to trust God's Word without requiring extra proof. In the face of doubt, Jesus is patient—but our response must be faith.

As Pilate wrestled with fear, politics, and guilt, Jesus stood silent—declaring divine authority even in silence. This message contrasts Pilate's cowardice with Joseph's courage and warns us of the danger of delaying obedience. God's voice will not always wait. Will we trust His authority or fold under pressure?

Pilate's attempt to appease a bloodthirsty crowd through violence instead of justice reveals how fear of man can lead to devastating compromise. Jesus endured brutal scourging, mocking, and humiliation though found innocent. As followers of Christ, we're reminded never to compromise our faith under pressure—because our Savior never compromised for us.

Peter's threefold denial reminds us that sin often snowballs—one failure opens the door for the next. In moments of fear, pride, and pressure, we may deny Christ not with our words, but with our actions. This message challenges us to stay humble, trust God's grace, and be on guard against the deceit of temptation. The only boasting we should do is in knowing the Lord.

As sorrow filled the disciples' hearts over Jesus' departure, He gently reminded them: “It is to your advantage that I go.”Only through His leaving would the Spirit come. What felt like loss would become their greatest gain. Sometimes God's greatest victories are disguised as painful goodbyes. Trust what He's doing, even when it's hard.

When Thomas voiced confusion, Jesus answered with clarity: “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” That's not just direction—it's identity. Salvation isn't about finding a path; it's about trusting a Person. In a culture that denies absolute truth, Jesus boldly declares that life with the Father only comes through Him.

Jesus' words in John 14 are balm for broken hearts: “Do not let your heart be troubled…” With a promise to prepare a place for us, and the assurance that He will personally come back to bring us there, Christ anchors our present pain to future hope. This is why we can have peace—even when life is anything but peaceful.

After washing His disciples' feet, Jesus sat down and explained why: “I gave you an example…” Greatness in God's kingdom isn't found in position, but in posture. When we serve humbly, we reflect Christ most clearly—and that kind of witness carries power. In a world hungry for status, the church is called to stoop in love.

On the eve of His crucifixion, Jesus—fully aware of what was coming—chose to kneel and wash His disciples' feet. In the face of cosmic conflict, He served with confidence, rooted in the Father's promises. This message reminds us that even in our most uncertain moments, we can live with peace and purpose because we know our destination is secure.

Jesus commands the tomb to open, and Lazarus walks out. But He doesn't stop there—He tells the people to unbind him. In this powerful miracle, we're reminded: Jesus brings the dead to life, but He also sets them free. Are you still wearing what He's already broken off?

Before Jesus raised Lazarus, He first raised the faith of those around Him. Martha wasn't asked to understand—just to trust. Could it be that our limited faith is limiting what we see God do? Jesus invites us to believe… so we can see the glory of God.

Jesus didn't just risk His life for His sheep—He laid it down. In contrast to hired hands who flee at the first sign of danger, Jesus sacrifices out of love. What kind of leader are we? What kind of follower? The Good Shepherd calls us to both trust and reflect His selfless love.

In John 10, Jesus describes Himself not just as the Shepherd but as the Door—the only way in and out. Through Him, we are saved and given life, not just survival. Are we settling for spiritual scraps or stepping into the abundant life found only through the One true Door?

A man born blind receives his sight, but instead of celebration, he's met with religious scrutiny. Why? Because it happened on the Sabbath. In John 9, Jesus shows us that mercy always outweighs man-made rules. What kind of spirit do we bring into worship—one of grace or of burden?

In John 8:12, Jesus makes a radical claim: “I am the Light of the world.” Only He can break through the darkness of sin, sorrow, and death. This message reminds us that while the world stumbles in darkness, those who follow Jesus walk in the light. Reflect His light. Darkness cannot overcome it.

1 Chronicles 16 reminds us that gratitude isn't seasonal—it's continual. God is good and His love never ends, so our praise shouldn't either. This message calls us to thank God for who He is, how He saves, and the security He offers. Every breath is reason to say “Amen” and give Him glory.

In John 7, though many sought to seize Jesus, no one could touch Him—because His time hadn't come. Jesus lived fully in the confidence of God's timing and sovereignty. So can you. When you walk in obedience, no opposition can derail God's plan for your life. Live with courage today, knowing you are protected until your appointed hour.

As the disciples struggled against the waves in John 6, Jesus came to them walking on the water. He didn't still the storm—He joined them in it and safely delivered them. This message offers powerful reassurance: Jesus comes to you wherever you are, even in the middle of life's fiercest storms. He may not always calm the storm, but He will always carry you through it.

In 1 Chronicles 5, the same people who once cried out to God in battle—and saw Him deliver—later turned to worship false gods and faced defeat. This message reminds us that powerful victories come from trusting God, while judgment comes when we abandon Him. God is the agent of both blessing and discipline. Are you experiencing victory… or are you walking toward downfall?

In John 5, a paralyzed man walks—and the religious leaders miss the miracle because it broke their Sabbath rules. This message challenges us to examine what traditions or personal preferences we treat as Biblical essentials. Let's not let man-made rules get in the way of God's work.

The Samaritan woman's story drew people to Jesus, but it was His Word that changed them. In John 4, we're reminded that personal testimony is powerful—but the Word is indispensable for lasting faith and growth. Let your story lead to Scripture, because God's Word never returns void.

When the Assyrian army threatened Judah, Hezekiah didn't panic—he prayed. This message from 2 Kings 19 shows us how to face overwhelming challenges: spread them out before the Lord and trust in His power. Don't underestimate the enemy, but don't forget your God is greater.

Jesus didn't come to condemn us—we were already condemned. He came to save. John 3:17–18 explains that judgment is our default, but salvation is God's gracious offer through faith in Christ. This message highlights that believing in Jesus isn't about religion or good deeds—it's about receiving the only remedy for our lostness.

John 3:16 reveals the heart of God in one sentence: He loved a broken world enough to give His Son. This message explores the depth of that love—not for the moral, the beautiful, or the deserving, but for all. True belief in Jesus means surrender, not just intellectual agreement. It's a love so deep, it changes everything.

John opens his Gospel with a bold claim: Jesus is the eternal Word, fully God and present before creation. In just a few verses, John destroys the idea that Jesus is merely a good teacher. This message explores how Jesus reveals the heart of God, why His eternal nature matters, and how this truth invites us into deeper worship and trust in the One who always was.

Have you lost something in your spiritual life—joy, passion, prayer, purpose? In 2 Kings 6, an iron ax head lost in a river becomes a metaphor for regaining what we've misplaced. This message shows us the pathway to recovery: recognize the loss, desire restoration, return to where you last had it, and obey God's instructions. Whatever you've lost, it can be found again.

Jesus' death wasn't a tragic detour—it was the plan from the beginning. In Luke 24, Jesus opens the Scriptures to show how His suffering, death, and resurrection were all foretold. This message reveals how God's plan for redemption has always been in motion, and how His resurrection power is now available to us as we carry that good news to the world.

When it comes to faith, some need more proof than others. After the resurrection, John believed at the sight of the empty tomb, while others—like Thomas—needed more. In this message, we explore how doubt and belief coexisted in Jesus' followers and how we, too, must decide: will we trust what we've been shown, or demand more evidence? Which disciple are you?