Each Sunday's sermon audio podcast. If you would like to know more about who we are and what we believe, please check out our web-site at: www.newworkfellowship.com 5050 Canton Pike | Hopkinsville, KY Lead Pastor - Kevin Lee Teaching Pastor - Cory Pitts Missions Pastor - David Webster Worship…
Before You Go - "It Shouldn't Be This Way" - John 9:1-11 Evil and suffering are undeniable realities—but so is goodness. While we all witness pain in our lives, we also encounter moments of beauty, joy, and awe. Instead of asking, 'Is God good?', perhaps the deeper question is, 'How could anyone doubt that a good God exists, even in a world with suffering—and even with the reality of hell?'
This week, Evan returns to the mic alongside Michael, Josh, and Steve for a packed episode filled with laughter, late nights, and life-changing truth. The crew opens with stories from a marathon weekend of graduation ceremonies and Project Grad—highlighting community impact, ministry hustle, and Evan and Hannah pulling an unexpected all-nighter. Michael hilariously explains why he opted for marriage over ministry on Friday night, and Josh celebrates Tate Wells stepping into his new role as Worship Associate. The team then plays “Real Fix or Fake Hack,” an over-the-top DIY guessing game that compares quirky household fixes to our often-misguided attempts to fix sin ourselves. Transitioning into Sunday's sermon discussion, Michael and Josh unpack Kevin's message on the reality of brokenness. Michael reminds us that sin isn't just “out there” but rooted deep in each of us. Steve presses into how culture often celebrates what God calls sin, not because it's right—but because we're afraid to confront what's wrong inside. The team explores the dangerous progression of sin: from tolerance to celebration to spiritual numbness. But they also point to the unrelenting grace of Christ. Josh and Evan reflect on the prodigal son, noting that God runs to meet us when we turn back—no shame, just open arms. The episode wraps with Michael offering a preview of this coming Sunday's message, where he'll tackle the age-old question: If God is good, why is there so much suffering?
Before You Go - "Who Says? Does Sin Really Matter?" - Genesis 3-11; Romans 3, 7; Hebrews 9:22, 10:10 Sin ruptures relationship with God Almighty, our Creator - the One who gave us breath. Sin ruptures the relationships between people whom God created and gave breath. And sin ruptures society, virtually taking on a mind of its own, as society and institutions serve the purposes of sin. In the end, God is not the only one who is left lamenting the condition of the after effects of unchecked sin. Sin is ultimately a turning away from God, from His character, and from His truth. All of us carry the taint of sin, have sinned, and are accountable for sin. Sin is not old fashioned; it is not out of date; sin ultimately does the work of death. Without sin, there would be no death. Sin is real; so real in fact, that it was sin that required that Jesus, God in the flesh, had to die a real death...for the purpose of setting us free. When we choose to sin, we are personally condemning and condoning Jesus' death on the cross.
This week, Josh, Cliff, Michael, and Justin gather around the table for an episode that mixes curiosity, theology, and a bit of controversy. The conversation is sparked by Michael's message on how Christ holds all things together—down to the atoms—and the surprising scientific depth he brought to the pulpit. The team reflects on Colossians 1 and how this passage doesn't just describe Jesus as Creator, but as the Sustainer—the glue, the gravity, the force keeping all creation intact. To explore the tension between belief and understanding, they engage in a game called Real Science or Totally Fake?—not just for laughs, but to surface a bigger point: what we believe about the nature of reality is ultimately answered in Christ. From discussions about molecules and laminin to the cosmic scope of Jesus' role, the hosts explore the bridge between science and faith, showing how both point to the same sustaining Savior.
Before You Go - "Who Is Jesus?" - Colossians 1:15-20 Paul admonishes his readers to "stay true to the Lord." And when we are true, the result is we don't have to worry about anything because we pray about everything and because of that, we can always be full of joy. Jesus makes all the difference in how we live. So what does the Bible tell us about who Jesus is? He is God in the flesh. He is the embodiment of every promise of God. He is the Word of God. He is the way to Life. He is the conquerer of sin. As Jesus himself declared, "He is the way, the truth, and the life."
In this heartfelt episode of the Beyond Sunday podcast, Michael and Josh are joined by Adam and Kathy Glover, seasoned Christian counselors and beloved members of New Work Fellowship. The episode opens with humor around Josh's milestone birthday and then gently shifts into deep and sacred ground—discussing identity, healing, and walking in freedom from shame. The Glovers reflect on their counseling philosophy, personal stories of redemption, and how understanding our God-given origin, identity, and destiny shapes spiritual and emotional health. The team also plays a fun “Marriage Mythbusters” game, debunking popular clichés with biblical truth and humor. Later, the conversation turns candid as Kathy shares her experience with abortion and the healing journey that followed, offering raw encouragement to anyone wrestling with past mistakes. This episode is powerful, real, and saturated in grace—and it reminds us all that we are redeemed, restored, and not alone.
Before You Go - "Who Am I?" - Genesis 1:26-28, 2:7; Psalm 8:4-6; Colossians 2:6-7 Just like Adam and Even in the Garden, so too the work of. God's creation of humanity continues to this very day. Just as He first breathed the first breath of life into Adam, so too, God the creator, continues to breathe in each of us His breath of life. Apart from His breath, there is no life. This is why it is so important that we confess in faith and receive the Holy Spirit - who is called the breath of God. And when we receive Him, we have Him forever! We are created in the image of God and are to reflect the glory of God. We are to point others to God. Therefore, our identity is not tied up in a feeling, anxiety, temptation, or a sin that compels us - our identity is in God who orchestrates the tiniest detail of our lives. You are NOT an accident; you were created in the image of God himself, and you exist for HIS purpose. Because of who He is and what He has done, you are destined for eternity when you trust Him and His word and put your life in His hands.
In this week's Beyond Sunday, Josh is joined by Paxton, Michael, and the legendary Paul Goodman—one of New Work's original worship culture builders and long-time elder. The team dives into an unforgettable round of "Bible or Breakup Ballad?"—a lyric guessing game that blurs the line between Song of Solomon and Shawn Mendes, complete with coffee wagers and surprise reveals. Their hilarious and heartfelt reflections remind us just how moving, misunderstood, and musically rich the Bible can be. Then, the focus shifts to Paxton's message from the “Before You Go” series, walking through the "Four C's" that build our confidence in Scripture's truth: Continuity, Content, Consistency, and Correctness. The conversation gets real about wrestling with doubt, bad theology we may have inherited, and the Bible's prophetic power. With insightful stats on prophecy fulfillment, personal stories of rediscovery, and Paul's encouragement about revival among the youth, this episode is both intellectually stirring and spiritually uplifting.
Before You Go - "Is the Bible True?" - 2 Timothy 3:14-17 Ephesians 5:26 declares that what makes the church beautiful is the thorough washing of the Bride (of Christ) by the Word of God. Proverbs 4:23, tells us to guard our heart—because it is prone to evil.So the way you do that is by a thorough washing of the mind in the scriptures. Fidelity to the Word of God is not foolish and mindless following—it is the humble awareness that truth is bigger than my mind, my feelings, and my investigation. Be loyal to the Word for it is the pathway to personal transformation: Romans 12:2.
This week on the Beyond Sunday podcast, Justin Eshenbaugh, Michael Shearon, Josh Hensley, and Chaney Guffey gather around the mic to kick off the new sermon series, Before You Go. After settling the all-important debate—yes, we're going with New Workians—the crew unpacks how the Church isn't declining but surging with opportunity. From campus revivals to powerful moments in ordinary workplaces, they discuss how every believer has the chance to change the world by simply being obedient right where they are. The conversation gets personal as each host reflects on Kevin's four sermon points: Get Prayed Up, Stay Filled Up, Prepare to Give Up, and Get Out. Chaney shares how her journey into the residency program required deep surrender, while Josh and Michael discuss the importance of staying spiritually filled in order to live with a “get to” mindset. Plus, the team previews upcoming events: a special Graduation Sunday with a seafood boil and studio-crafted gifts, VBS, camps, and an unforgettable Mother's Day surprise that may rival Santa. ASK A QUESTION - TELL A STORY - CONNECT WITH US
Before You Go - "The Great Opportunity" - Acts 2:17-18, 2 Timothy 3:1-2, 1 Timothy 4:1, 1 Peter 3:15 What we are seeing in the movement away from the church (a real thing) is not a new thing. It is forecast from the beginning and the truth is, it is seen in every generation. Everything old is new again Notice what the Bible says about the "Last Days." We have been in the last days from the time of the Resurrection forward. This is not just a "great falling away." This is also a great rising of faith. It is, as is true for every age - not just a time of falling aside but calling to rise. And you see it in the church today. Do not despair of the church. This is a great opportunity!
This week on Beyond Sunday, Steve Buttram hosts a lively roundtable with Paxton Redd, Josh Hensley, Kevin Lee, and Tate Wells as they reflect on an unforgettable Easter at the Bruce. With humor and humility, they recount wardrobe misfires (“pastel regrets,” bomber jackets, and comb-over comments), but quickly turn to the deeper beauty of the day: baptisms, salvations, and the unshakable presence of Jesus. The team marvels at how everything flowed—from worship to the Word—and how it all pointed to Christ, not performance. Kevin walks through the heart of his Easter message, Death Will Die, reminding listeners that Jesus' resurrection doesn't just mean life after death, but freedom from shame, sin, and the power of the curse. The conversation digs into the emotional tension between repentance and shame, emphasizing how genuine repentance turns us back to grace rather than weighing us down in guilt. Kevin shares a powerful illustration about returning to sin, using a dog and a hidden chain to reveal how shame can either drive us to freedom or keep us trapped. The crew closes with a preview of the new series, Before You Go, aimed at equipping people for the transitions of life with gospel truth. Kevin believes we may be on the edge of a great spiritual awakening, and this series is positioned to speak boldly into that cultural moment. Plus, a listener-submitted question lets Josh open up about how he prayerfully and thoughtfully selects worship songs to align with the teaching—though he jokes about using a hat and some divine finger-pointing from Tate.
The End in Mind - "Death Will Die" - 1 Corinthians 15:31-57 What do you call it when we plan for every contingency in life, but completely ignore the one certainty? Foolishness. What is the one absolute certainty that is true for every man, woman, and child? It is the certainty of death. Now in a way, we don't want to talk about death. We would like to think that we will be the one exception to the overwhelming statistic that has held true from the beginning: for every one that has lived, so far - one of of every one - also dies. Death is the great equalizer. How do I live THIS day in light of THAT day?
This week's episode brings together some serious theology and some not-so-serious heavenly floor plans. Alicia Lancaster joins Josh, Evan, and Tate—yes, the Alicia who's been name-dropped in past episodes—for a lighthearted but heartfelt conversation on the hope of Heaven. Things kick off with a playful discussion about what you'd want in your heavenly mansion (spoiler: it includes gym gear, hammocks, and Optimus Prime). But the episode quickly leans into a powerful recap of Michael's message from Sunday, reflecting on the real and urgent nature of Heaven and Hell. The team shares emotional moments from staff meetings, altar prayer times, and their personal burden for those who haven't yet come to know Christ. It's a timely conversation right before Easter, full of challenge and encouragement. You'll laugh, you might tear up—and you'll definitely be reminded of the eternal hope we have in Jesus.
The End in Mind - "Our Hope in Death, the Promise of Heaven" - Revelation 21:1-8 What do you call it when we plan for every contingency in life, but completely ignore the one certainty? Foolishness. What is the one absolute certainty that is true for every man, woman, and child? It is the certainty of death. Now in a way, we don't want to talk about death. We would like to think that we will be the one exception to the overwhelming statistic that has held true from the beginning: for every one that has lived, so far - one of of every one - also dies. Death is the great equalizer. How do I live THIS day in light of THAT day?
Paxton's message on judgment sparks conversation with this week's hosts— Josh, Paxton, Michael, and Steve— a powerful and honest conversation about what happens after we die. The team explores the reality that everyone faces judgment—either reckoning or reward—and unpacks the comforting truth that Jesus stands with us in that moment, clothing us in His righteousness. They lean into Hebrews 9:27 and reflect on how easy it is to get distracted by the day-to-day and forget about eternity, but how essential it is to live with that eternal perspective now. In true Beyond Sunday fashion, things take a hilarious turn with a special segment called Judgment Seat Confessions, where the team “charges” one another with fictional offenses. But amid the laughter, the heart of the episode centers on God's perfect judgment—never misjudging, never overlooking, always just. Paxton also shares the source of the powerful sermon illustration that came from R.C. Sproul's children's book The Priest with Dirty Clothes, which beautifully illustrates how we are covered in Christ's righteousness. Buy on Amazon – The Priest with Dirty Clothes by R.C. Sproul ASK A QUESTION - TELL A STORY - CONNECT WITH US
The End in Mind - "When I Die, What Then?" - Hebrews 9:27-28 What do you call it when we plan for every contingency in life, but completely ignore the one certainty? Foolishness. What is the one absolute certainty that is true for every man, woman, and child? It is the certainty of death. Now in a way, we don't want to talk about death. We would like to think that we will be the one exception to the overwhelming statistic that has held true from the beginning: for every one that has lived, so far - one of of every one - also dies. Death is the great equalizer. How do I live THIS day in light of THAT day?
What would your tombstone say? This week on Beyond Sunday, Josh, Michael, Paxton, and Justin dive deep into the new sermon series on death—and it's anything but gloomy. From AMC-vibe sermon bumpers to tombstone one-liners, the conversation gets real about legacy, faith, and the brevity of life. The team reflects on how death shapes the way we live, love, and lead—offering both laughter and heartfelt stories, including a powerful testimony about reconciliation and grief. It all points to this truth: death is certain, but hope is even more certain when you know Jesus. They also unpack the power behind worship songs like More Like Jesus and Lamb's Book of Life, reminding us of the freedom we have through Christ—and the importance of sharing that hope. With Easter on the horizon, the hosts highlight a full slate of events—from the Eggstravaganza to Good Friday to two Easter services at the Bruce Convention Center. This episode will challenge you to live intentionally, speak life, and invite others to the hope of eternity. ASK A QUESTION - TELL A STORY - CONNECT WITH US
The End in Mind - "What Happens When I Die?" - 2 Corinthians 5:1-9 (See also: Luke 16:19-31) What do you call it when we plan for every contingency in life, but completely ignore the one certainty? Foolishness. What is the one absolute certainty that is true for every man, woman, and child? It is the certainty of death. Now in a way, we don't want to talk about death. We would like to think that we will be the one exception to the overwhelming statistic that has held true from the beginning: for every one that has lived, so far - one of of every one - also dies. Death is the great equalizer. How do I live THIS day in light of THAT day?
This week on Beyond Sunday, Josh Hensley is joined by Michael Shearon, Evan Ryan, and Kevin Lee for a heartfelt and humorous conversation that centers around sacrifice, legacy, and the beautiful aroma of a poured-out life. From hilarious sock-drinking camp games to unexpected solo performances of the National Anthem, the episode blends laughter with depth. Kevin unpacks the story of the woman with the alabaster jar from Mark's Gospel—highlighting how her extravagant act of worship was both a foreshadowing of Jesus' burial and a legacy moment that echoes through eternity. The team reflects on how we can be faithful vessels—set apart and poured out for something greater. They also share powerful updates from the Outpouring campaign, including the students' $20,000 commitment and touching stories of first-time givers stepping into obedience. The conversation circles around the idea that what we release for God becomes part of a legacy beyond our lifespan—like Kevin's parents' estate being the first gift to the campaign. With Night of Worship just days away and Easter on the horizon, the team encourages the church family not to miss what God is doing. And with a new sermon series about death and hope beginning soon, they ask the sobering question: “What kind of fool prepares for everything… except the one certainty?” Amazon Link: Paradox of Generosity Book
The Outpouring - "The Beautiful Aroma of Sacrifice" - Mark 14:1-9 A favorite story of "pouring out" is the woman who anointed the feet of Jesus with her tears and the expensive perfume. while others called it "wasteful" and perhaps others were calculating how such an extravagant gift could have been consumed upon their own desires, Luke picks up on the beautiful word picture of the sweet aroma of wild abandon. This is what a commitment looks like. It is aspirational; it is without limit. Did she go to that dinner thinking she would use some of it, maybe a little bit? It would have been enough, but in the beauty of the moment in the presence of her Lord - overcome with love - she poured it ALL OUT. Will you? Will we?
This week's Beyond Sunday podcast featured Josh Hensley, Evan Ryan, and Michael Shearon, along with special guest Jack Grace, a “corner man” encourager in the New Work Fellowship family. The conversation centered on the impact of encouragement, the power of worship, and the importance of being “all in” for Christ. Jack shared his testimony of faith, discussing how his walk with Jesus transformed his perspective and deepened his passion for worship. The group reflected on how true satisfaction is only found in Christ, emphasizing that when believers fully commit to Him, their lives are radically changed. They also discussed Jack's role in the church, particularly in children's ministry, where he sees firsthand how young hearts are shaped for Christ. Evan recapped his Sunday message on Philippians, highlighting what it means to pour oneself out for the gospel and follow Christ's example. The pastors shared personal stories of times they were "all in" for things other than Christ and how they ultimately found fulfillment in their faith. They also reflected on the transformative power of baptism, sharing the story of Chris Hernandez, whose decision to follow Christ renewed his marriage and life. Looking ahead, the team encouraged listeners to prepare for New Work's Night of Worship, The Overflow, on March 27, and to consider taking their next steps in faith, including baptism. The episode concluded with Jack's wisdom: Open your eyes and see what God is doing—He is pouring out His Spirit right in front of us. ASK A QUESTION - TELL A STORY - CONNECT WITH US
The Outpouring - "All In" - Philippians 2:5-11, 17 It's not about stuff. Giving is never about the stuff. What we are called to pour out isn't anything so temporary or temporal as money or resources. Make no mistake about it - the call to "pour out" is a call to pour out your life. Paul understood that. He viewed his kingdom investment as that very thing. His life was poured out. And here is the beauty of his revelation; he is being poured out precisely because that's what Jesus did first. His action is one of obedient faith and expresses in tangible form what it means to be "all in."
This week on Beyond Sunday, Tate Wells is joined by Paxton Redd, Evan Ryan, and Hannah Buttram to reflect on Commitment Sunday, a powerful moment in The Outpouring campaign. They discuss the significance of seeing the congregation step forward in faith, placing their commitments in the same tubs used for baptisms last Easter. The conversation highlights the generational impact of generosity, with some participants even writing down names of future generations yet to be born. The group also unpacks Kevin Lee's sermon, “Step Aside”, emphasizing that true generosity comes from the heart and should be motivated by faith rather than comparison or fear. They also share incredible student ministry stories, where nearly 50 students collectively committed almost $20,000, showing that The Outpouring is already shaping the next generation. Looking ahead, the team previews exciting upcoming events, including The Overflow Night of Worship on March 27, which promises to be an unforgettable experience. This Sunday's message, brought by Evan Ryan, will focus on what it means to be “All In”, encouraging believers to pour themselves out in faith, just as Christ did. A special surprise video will also be revealed during the service, making it a can't-miss Sunday. The team encourages everyone to stay engaged, trust God in their commitments, and look forward to the continued movement of The Outpouring. ASK A QUESTION - TELL A STORY - CONNECT WITH US
The Outpouring - "Step Aside" - Acts 4:32-5:2, 2 Corinthians 8:10-12 We all need to check ourselves when it comes to pouring out. There is something beautiful in it. It appeals to us. But, at the same time - there is this heart tug of wanting to keep our stuff. After all, it is OUR stuff, right? We are wise when we carefully check ourselves and do not put ourselves in the middle of it. The story of Ananias and Saphira is a powerful warning to us - these stories remind us that when you give, having been guided by the Holy Spirit, you are in for incredible joy! But, if you leave "KING SELF" on the throne, only trouble is ahead. There is a beauty in surrender when it is truly for the Lord.
This week on Beyond Sunday, Josh Hensley, David Rambo, Evan Ryan, and Michael Shearon explored Jesus' first miracle—turning water into wine—and how it demonstrates God's provision. They discussed the tension between scarcity and faith, recognizing that whether it's time, finances, or energy, God fills us so we can pour into others. The team reflected on how embracing an overflow mindset means stewarding our blessings well, whether through generosity, service, or intentional relationships. They also shared personal stories of trusting God in seasons of uncertainty, reminding us that He provides exactly what we need when we step out in faith. Looking ahead, Commitment Sunday (March 9) marks a pivotal moment in The Outpouring campaign, where the church will take bold steps of obedience. On March 16, the church will celebrate The Lord's Supper and host Winter Sports Day to honor local student-athletes. As we move forward, the challenge is clear—how are we using what God has given us to bless others? If you've experienced a moment where God provided unexpectedly, we'd love to hear about it! Share your story through the church app under “Ask Podcast Questions.” Or just click the link below- ASK A QUESTION - TELL A STORY - CONNECT WITH US
The Outpouring - "Filled to Be Spilled" - John 2:1-11; 2 Corinthians 9:6-12 Jesus gets in on the "pouring out." His first miracle, the wedding at Cana, is a double poured out story. First - pour water into the jars. Then - the wine is poured out for the people. There was so much more behind the scenes to this story than just the wedding for this unnamed couple. It is a foreshadowing of the great wedding to come - of the lamb and the church. The message is that what the Messiah provides is better than you even thought possible. But that's kind of how it is when we pour out what is precious to the Lord - it is always far better!
This week's Beyond Sunday podcast featured host Josh Hensley alongside Steve Buttram, Justin Eshenbaugh, and Michael Shearon as they dove into week four of The Outpouring. The team explored why people hesitate to pray boldly, touching on fear, unbelief, and the challenge of aligning with God's will. They encouraged listeners to step out in faith, praying for things so big that they can only happen if God shows up. As the conversation continued, they tied The Outpouring campaign to biblical themes of sacrifice and trust. Drawing from Isaac's story and Eliezer's bold prayer, they discussed how waiting on God's timing often requires persistence and faith. The team encouraged listeners not to grow weary in prayer, reminding them that God's answers might already be in motion even when unseen. Looking ahead, the sermon series continues with Jesus' first miracle—turning water into wine—where the key message is "You are filled to be spilled." This theme sets the stage for The Overflow, a Night of Worship on March 27, marking the culmination of The Outpouring. The episode wrapped up with an invitation to stay engaged, share the podcast, and let it spark meaningful conversations that draw people closer to Christ.
The Outpouring - "There Is More than You Think" - Genesis 24:10-20; 2 Corinthians 8:1-5 The story of Rebekah watering the camels is one of a woman who empties the jar over and over and over again. Any idea how many gallons of water she drew and emptied, drew and emptied? What began as a drink for a thirsty man became an act of service that became monumental. Sometimes we limit God because we view Him through our own limited biases. It's too much. It's too big. It's too soon. But God just calls us to draw from Him - and we will find a source that is unending. There is more in you than you think!
In this episode of the Beyond Sunday podcast, hosts Josh Hensley, Hannah Buttram, Evan Ryan, and Paxton Redd engage in a lively discussion about faith, trust, and God's provision. The conversation kicks off with reflections on personal experiences of stretching resources—whether it's gas in a car, hand soap, or even contact lenses—leading into a powerful biblical discussion on the widow's oil from 2 Kings 4. Paxton shares how God provided miraculously for the widow, emphasizing that faith and preparation create space for divine blessings. The hosts relate this to modern struggles, encouraging listeners to trust in God's timing and provision even in seasons of uncertainty. Another key theme is the importance of removing distractions to grow spiritually. The team discusses a recent conference where speaker Carlos Whitaker shared insights from his book Reconnected, emphasizing the benefits of reducing screen time for mental, physical, and spiritual well-being. The podcast also highlights the church's Outpouring initiative, with inspiring stories of youth making financial commitments beyond their means, demonstrating childlike faith. The hosts challenge listeners to evaluate areas in their lives where they might be limiting God's work and to create capacity for His blessings. Grab a copy of Carlos Whitaker's book, Reconnected
The Outpouring - "Limited Vision Limits Provision" - 2 Kings 4:1-7 Just like Elijah has his widow to help him, so too for Elisha. This poor woman was overwhelmed. She was destitute, and her husband has recently died. Creditors came knocking to collect. When asked what she still had, she responds boldly: NOTHING! She even overlooked the little she did have. Regardless of her limited vision, God's prophet sets about to invite her into the process of divine provision. Notice when the oil stopped flowing - when she got to the end of her vision of what was needed. We can do the same. When we do not "see it," we will NOT see it.
In this episode of Beyond Sunday, hosts Michael Shearon, Chaney Guffey, David Rambo, and Paxton Redd discuss The Outpouring giving initiative. They reflect on the recent sermon about Elijah and the Widow of Zarephath, emphasizing the importance of beginning where you are, moving as God leads, and trusting that obedience leads to blessings. Personal testimonies highlight how faith in uncertain moments—whether in finances, career changes, or hardships—has led to God's provision. The guests also share their vision for The Outpouring, from expanding children's ministry to creating more opportunities for young adults and small groups. The hosts address a listener question on how to respond when giving doesn't bring immediate results. They encourage patience, comparing God's timing to a "crockpot" rather than a "microwave," where blessings develop over time. Giving, they stress, should focus on transformation—both personal and within the church—rather than expecting quick returns. The episode concludes with announcements about upcoming mission trips, a special interest night on February 19, and a preview of the next sermon in The Outpouring series. Listeners are encouraged to stay engaged, trust in God's provision, and continue walking in faith.
The Outpouring - "How Big Is Your Vision?" - 1 Kings 17:7-16; Ephesians 3:20-21 Our text is the story of the widow of Zarephath who was told to pour out her flour and oil for the prophet of God, and God would restore and preserve her because of her obedience. Her vision was so limited - "I'm going to make my last meal and then me and my son will die." God has so much more! It is our focus that often limits our vision.
In this episode of the Beyond Sunday podcast, hosts Michael Shearon, Josh Hensley, Kevin Lee, and Evan Ryan recap Sunday's service and highlight the behind-the-scenes work of the tech team, especially Alicia Lancaster, the church's worship Production Manager and one of the admins in the office. A funny moment is shared when Josh's microphone cut out mid-song, showcasing the team's quick problem-solving. The hosts also discuss The Outpouring, a vision for expanding ministry spaces, especially for kids and students. Excitement is building as young members commit to the project, emphasizing that this is about more than buildings—it's about investing in the next generation. They encourage everyone to take part in shaping the future of the church.
The Outpouring - "Vision Sunday" - Proverbs 29:18, Philippians 2:6-7, Acts 2:17-18 It is a sacred journey of joy to pour out ourselves and all that we have for Him. It is precisely the picture Paul writes of when, in Philippians, he calls us all to "have the same mindset as Christ." (Phil 2:5-7).
In this episode of the Beyond Sunday Podcast, hosts Tate Zillman Wells, Josh Hensley, Michael Shearon, and Paxton Redd discuss the true meaning of worship beyond just music. They emphasize that worship is a way of life, not just a Sunday activity, and should be an overflow of a heart consistently focused on God. Through personal stories, they highlight the power of worship in difficult times, sharing how praising God through struggles can serve as a testimony to others. They also explore practical ways to develop a habit of worship throughout the week, such as incorporating prayer, gratitude, and worship music into daily routines. The episode also features a listener question from Tammy Witte, sparking a discussion on recommended faith-based podcasts that encourage spiritual growth. The hosts wrap up by teasing Vision Sunday and the launch of The Outpouring, an exciting new initiative at New Work. With humor, personal insights, and practical advice, this episode encourages listeners to cultivate a deeper, more intentional worship life.
Follow the Leader - "Begin on the Inside: Practice Solitude and Prayer" - Luke 5:16, 6:12, 9:18, 9:28, 11:1 Sometimes we need silence to think. There is so much noise in our lives - people, thoughts in our heads, notifications from our phones, etc. Sometimes we just need to be still. How can we ever know God if we are never still (Psalm 46:10)? So, pick a time/place. Prioritize it. If Jesus could, surely you can. And then begin. Fail at it over and over again. And then, you know what to do? You try again!
Follow the Leader - "Jesus Prioritized Worship" - Luke 4:14-16; John 4:21-23 Worship was at the heart of Jesus' ministry. In fact, it is evident that He was raised that way. His parents modeled it. When travelers went to Jerusalem, they sang together the same "psalms of assent" as they headed to Jerusalem. Jesus grew up singing, "I was glad when they said to me, 'Let us go to the house of the Lord'..." He continued that rhythm in His own life. There is a trend at work in the church right now in which people, on average, attend 1.4 times a month - that's average. It's called "regular attendance." The implication from the text was that every week, Jesus was at the synagogue, and every year, at the temple.
In this episode of the Beyond Sunday podcast, hosts Michael, Josh, Evan, and Paxton dive into the themes of generosity as they reflect on the current sermon series, "Follow the Leader." They discuss the contrast between the biblical stories of the rich young ruler and Zacchaeus, highlighting the significance of a generous heart in following Jesus. The team also shares personal insights on giving, emphasizing the spiritual and practical rewards of living generously, and recounting inspiring moments of generosity witnessed during mission trips. Along the way, they answer a listener's question about career paths outside of ministry, providing a mix of humor and heartfelt reflections. This episode is a thoughtful exploration of faith, generosity, and living a Christ-centered life.
Follow the Leader - "Jesus Prioritized Generosity" - Luke 18:18-27; 19:1-10 Jesus talked more about money than any other topic. Not because He (or the church) is trying to get money from people, but the reality is that money is the largest "competitor" with God. You cannot serve both God and money. 1 Timothy 6:10 is a great example of why Jesus taught about it...it can ruin people. You see it all throughout the Bible - Judas, Ananias and Saphira, Simon the Sorcerer, Achan in Joshua, the sons of Levi, the and rich young ruler. So, if we are following closely, it makes sense that we would be generous. Radical Generosity is one of the core values of the church. We teach it, not because we want your money, but because we are trying to follow Jesus closely.
In this episode, Michael Shearon and Josh Hensley welcome April Oattes and introduce Nora Snyder, the newest missions intern at New Work Fellowship. Nora shares her passion for service and her decision to step into this role, combining her graduate studies in counseling with her dedication to missions. The team discusses Nora's responsibilities, such as coordinating local mission projects, creating a prayer wall for the church, and assisting small groups in identifying service opportunities. They also reflect on the personal impact of serving others and fostering relationships through shared faith. The conversation highlights the church's recent mission trip to Guatemala, where 21 participants built homes, distributed food, and strengthened relationships with local communities. They celebrate the generosity of New Work Fellowship, which raised over $61,000 for missions in 2024 and contributed to disaster relief efforts for California wildfire victims. The hosts emphasize the importance of living missionally through global trips, local service, or prayer and encourage listeners to explore opportunities to engage with the church's vision for making a difference.
Follow the Leader - "Jesus Prioritized the Scripture" - John 1:1-5 Jesus was the Word, and is the Word. If you want to know the Word, you must be in the Word. You need a time, place, and a Bible. Get in the word! God's word will never pass away - that means you can trust it. Jesus taught the Word, so apparently, He thought it important enough for us to learn it. Jesus applied it to His life; therefore, you are to apply it to your life. Jesus challenged people to search the Word. Are you searching? How close are you following?
In this New Year's Day 2025 podcast episode, hosts Josh Henley, Cliff Hines, Justin Eshenbaugh, and Michael Shearon reflected on New Work Fellowship's achievements in 2024. Key highlights included reaching over 1,000 total baptisms since founding, launching their first Spanish-speaking ministry, and growing their Night of Worship event to over 550 attendees. Looking ahead to 2025, the hosts shared upcoming changes including a new special needs ministry for children, moving 6th graders into student ministry, and relocating summer camps to Jonathan Creek. The conversation maintained an optimistic tone as they discussed their "Imagine a Church" vision and plans for continued growth and community impact.
Follow the Leader - "Pick Your People" - Matthew 4:18-22, 16:24-26 There is a spiritual discipline of connection and community that is intentional in the Christian faith. We are not to live out our faith in isolation. From the very beginning we find that it is NOT GOOD to be alone, and that is certainly true in our faith! We do not just do church together; we do life together. If there was someone who could do it all, be it all, didn't need anyone...it was Jesus. But Jesus intentionally chose to do life in community. Who are your people? Who are your faith people? Who can speak into your life? Who is it that you are speaking and pouring into?
Hosts Josh Hensley, Paxton Redd, Kevin Lee, and Michael Shearon discuss Christmas traditions and answer listener questions in this December 2024 episode of Beyond Sunday. The episode begins with sharing unique family Christmas traditions, including peppermint ice cream with eggnog, special Christmas morning breakfasts, and cookie decorating competitions. Key questions addressed: Personal moments that challenged their Christian views - The hosts discuss church hurt, theological education, and personal trials that deepened their faith Biggest spiritual influences - They share stories about mentors, family members, and church leaders who shaped their faith Theological questions about: Whether deceased loved ones watch from heaven Timing of Jesus's birth relative to Mary and Joseph's marriage Proper tithing practices and designated giving The episode concludes with hosts sharing their favorite Christmas movies. Merry Christmas to our faithful listeners!
Sometimes the last thing we want is an interruption. Everything is going along just like we want it to. I imagine that 's the way it was with the shepherds. They were content. They were comfortable. I don't picture the shepherds as an exceedingly ambitious lot. Their job was on the bottom rung of economic advancement. There must have been "easy as you go" vibe to these guys. This night was just same ol', same ol'. They were used to day in and day out. Every night was the same...oh, sure - maybe the occasional moment of madness when a bear or lion tried to swipe a lamb. And this night was nothing special, until SUDDENLY IT WAS SOMETHING ELSE! There is comfort in routine. We like to know what is coming. Christmas can be tough because we lose our routine and rhythm, but this interruption was God's way of saying, "There is more to your story!" God's story intersected their story, and God has a purpose when He interrupts your story. He is inviting you to something more. So what's the lesson here? Get your eyes up, get your worship on, step into the call, find Jesus, AND never be the same again!
In this episode of the Beyond Sunday podcast, host Josh Hensley is joined by Michael Shearan, Evan Ryan, and special guest April Oatts to discuss several engaging topics. The group dives into Pastor Steve's recent sermon about the wise men's journey to Jesus, exploring the profound significance of their three gifts - gold, frankincense, and myrrh - and what these gifts reveal about Jesus's identity as king, priest, and sacrifice. They share personal stories about following God's calling, including Evan's transformative journey from Arkansas to becoming a vital part of New Work Fellowship's ministry. The conversation also touches on upcoming Christmas Eve services and mission initiatives, with April providing insights into how the church's year-end missions offering supports local, national, and global partners. Don't miss out on the beginnings of the exciting and upcoming journey of Michael and Laina welcoming a new cat to their family. There sure to be more as the story develops and unfolds!
Same story as last week. Only this time, we are not looking so much at Herod's perspective but watching the journey of the magi. These wisemen were perceptive, far-seeing visionaries who were on a mission. Notice these truths about these Christmas travelers: 1) they were prepared, 2) they had a goal, and 3) they even knew who could potentially help them to accomplish their mission. What they didn't know is that every step of the journey - they were caught in a trap. Notice their interruption: they were warned in a dream. All of them. It interrupted their sleep. Life is like that. What do you do when life takes a frightening turn? Trust the Light (where God illuminates - trust Him); Stay on the way (be patient but be persistent); Follow the nudge (when God tugs at your heart, jump all in - even if you don't know where the journey will end).
The Beyond Sunday podcast, hosted by Steve Buttram, Josh Hensley, Evan Ryan, and Michael Shearon, delves into faith, control, and personal growth. This episode explores three key topics: King Herod's mistakes in resisting divine interruptions, including his refusal to relinquish control; the challenges of balancing forgiveness and reconciliation in relationships; and the importance of trusting God with finances and other areas of life. The hosts also share personal stories of surrendering control and finding peace through faith, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own lives and what they might need to release to God.
Pardon the Interruption - "It's Not Supposed to Be This Way" - Matthew 2:1-8, 16:20 Ever feel that way? Ever think these words? It's NOT supposed to be this way! We plan, but plans fail. The story of Herod is one of a man who was a wheeler & dealer. He was an exceptional planner (or plotter - his schemes were maddening and murderous). But this was a guy who was used to being in charge. He worked every angle; he laid out all his plans. The truth is all of us like to believe the myth of control. It comforts us - until it is shattered. The moment comes to all of us whether through death, loss of a job, illness, betrayal...or, sometimes we just discover, "I am not the king that I thought I was." In those moments, trust that God's ways are higher than ours (Isaiah 55:8-9) Realize that you don't have to have all the answers. Look for God's message in the moment. Even evil, broken, sinful King Herod had an inside track to an amazing truth of Christmas, "...when you find him, come back and tell me so that I can go and worship him." How close he was to the needed interruption. How close could you be?
In this episode of the Beyond Sunday Podcast, hosts and pastors Justin Eshenbaugh, Paxton Redd, Michael Shearon, and Josh Hensley dive into the theme of "interruptions" as part of the new sermon series, Pardon the Interruption. The discussion focuses on how life's unexpected detours, like those experienced by Mary and Joseph during the first Christmas, can shape our faith and obedience to God's will. Paxton highlights key takeaways from his sermon, including the importance of trusting God amidst disrupted plans. The hosts share personal stories of significant interruptions, such as career changes and caregiving, emphasizing how these moments often reveal God's greater purpose. They also discuss how to remain open to God's leading and preview next week's sermon on how interruptions can either shape or derail us.