New Work Fellowship Podcast

Invited and Wanted - "Grow" - Ephesians 3:14-19 In this second message of our series around our mission statement—We exist so every man, woman and child can KNOW Christ, GROW in Christ, and GO as the body of Christ—we look at Paul's prayer in Ephesians 3:14–19. Spiritual growth is more than outward effort; it begins with God's power at work in us. As Christ makes His home in our hearts, we are rooted in love, strengthened in community, and led toward the fullness of God. This passage shows us what it truly means to grow in Christ.

This week on Beyond Sunday, Paxton Redd, Josh Hensley, and Michael Shearon welcome special guest Joshua Sledge to the table. Together, they launch a three-part series based on New Work Fellowship's mission statement: KNOW Christ, GROW in Christ, and GO as the body of Christ. Pastor Kevin kicked off the series on Sunday, focusing on what it truly means to know Christ and find belonging in God's family. The group discusses Kevin's message, the deep desire we all have to belong, and how that is ultimately fulfilled through a relationship with Jesus and active participation in the church. Joshua shares his powerful personal journey of moving from simply attending church to becoming deeply involved in ministry and eventually feeling called to preach. His story highlights how serving in children's ministry, men's ministry, and beyond has transformed his family, his marriage, and his own spiritual walk. The episode also touches on exciting church milestones, like 32 consecutive weeks of baptisms and the impact of intentional prayer through the Impact Cards. This conversation will inspire you to step deeper into community and consider how God might be calling you to grow and serve.   ASK A QUESTION - TELL A STORY - CONNECT WITH US

Invited and Wanted - "Know" - Romans 16 Everyone wants a place. Everyone wants a people. FOMO is a real thing. At New Work Fellowship we want people to know they are both invited and wanted in this family. This series is an "open door" invitation to all to be a part of the family.

In this week's Beyond Sunday podcast, Michael Shearon, Evan Ryan, Cliff Hines, Chaney Guffey, and Tate Wells gather for a fun and meaningful conversation about partnership in ministry and finding your place in God's vision. The episode kicks off with a hilarious game, How Well Do You Know Your Co-Leader, filled with laughter, surprising revelations (like middle names!), and a few unexpected moments that you won't want to miss. The team then shifts to a deep discussion about the final week of the Romans series, where Pastor Kevin Lee highlighted Romans 16 and the power of many working together to advance the Gospel. They reflect on Kevin's three main points: The vision is greater than one. There is a place for you. God sends out people for His mission. The group also looks ahead to the upcoming “You Are Invited to the Family” series, which will focus on what it truly means to know Christ and live out your calling within the church family. Whether you're a leader, a volunteer, or simply exploring where you fit, this episode will inspire you to see your role in God's bigger story.   ASK A QUESTION - TELL A STORY - CONNECT WITH US  

When in Rome - "Leadership Is Partnership" - Romans 16 Romans 16 reminds us that leadership is really partnership—every hand and every gift matters in the mission. Yet Paul points us higher: it is the Lord who secures the victory. Verse 20 captures it perfectly—the God of peace will soon crush Satan. Peace and triumph are not opposites, but the echo of the gospel from beginning to end.

Josh Hensley, Paxton Redd, Michael Shearon, and Cliff Hines unpack the joy and ripple effects of Friend Day—from calmer service flows to a packed-and-powerful Lakeside Baptism night. The team laughs through “iconic friend duos,” then pivots to the deeper truth behind the fun: Jesus is the Friend who chooses, changes, and cares—and He's inviting us into more than religion; He's inviting us into relationship. They also name the ache many feel right now: loneliness. The crew challenges families to nudge kids (and ourselves) toward real-life community—phones down, presence up—and offers practical ways to walk as friends of Jesus, not just fans. Finally, they preview the When in Rome finale (Romans 16—“leadership is partnership”) and the tag-team, three-week membership series Invited & Wanted (Know • Grow • Go).   ASK A QUESTION - TELL A STORY - CONNECT WITH US

Friend Day 2025 - "One of the Best Things in Life Is Friendship" - John 15:12-17 All throughout Scripture we see the beauty of friendship—David and Jonathan shared a loyal bond that stood firm through trials, Mary and Elizabeth encouraged one another in their faith, and Jesus Himself walked closely with His disciples as friends. These examples point us to the greatest invitation of all: to be a friend of Jesus, to know Him personally, and to walk in relationship with God. And once you are a friend of Jesus, you are no longer just a friend—you are part of God's family. In two weeks, we'll begin a new membership series called Invited and Wanted, because that's exactly what you are in Christ—welcomed, loved, and assured that YOU belong.

This week on Beyond Sunday, hosts Evan Ryan, Paxton Redd, Michael Shearon, and Josh Hensley bring a mix of laughter and depth as they unpack Romans 15 and the importance of Christian community. The conversation kicks off lightheartedly with a fun game on unusual names for groups of animals—everything from a “flamboyance of flamingos” to a “parliament of owls”—before turning toward the deeper truth of what it means to be the body of Christ. The hosts reflect on Steve Buttram's sermon, highlighting the three C's of Christian community: Covenantal, Communal, and Continuous. They share personal stories of finding fellowship, the dangers of isolation, and the transforming power of unity, forgiveness, and commitment in the church body. Looking ahead, they preview a huge weekend at New Work Fellowship with Friend Day—expected to surpass Easter attendance—and Lakeside Baptism at Linton Beach, where 18 baptisms are already scheduled. This episode will encourage listeners to lean into community and be part of the exciting things God is doing.

When in Rome - "Living in Harmony" - Romans 15:1-7 Faith is lived out in community. Building upon the principle unpacked in Romans 14 regarding agreeable disagreement, Paul takes it a step further. We are to focus on how we might build up others. And as always, Paul points us to the example of Christ - who did not serve himself or please himself. The path to complete harmony is paved with patience and mutual commitment with a clear focus on God and His greater purpose. It's not about me!

This week on the Beyond Sunday podcast, Josh Hensley welcomes the “dream team” — Alicia Lancaster, Justin Eshenbaugh, and Michael Shearon — for a fun and thought-provoking mix of laughs, food debates, and serious faith discussion. They kick things off with the game Essential Truth or Personal Preference, weighing in on everything from pineapple on pizza and ketchup on steak to flip-flops in the pulpit. The conversation then shifts to Justin's sermon from Romans 14, unpacking how to navigate disagreements in the church. The team discusses knowing the difference between core biblical truths and personal convictions, yielding sacrificially to protect unity, and correcting humbly with love and relationship. Real-life examples from ministry and family life make the principles practical. They also preview upcoming events, including Steve Buttram's message on community, Friend Day with lakeside baptisms, and the women's Going Beyond simulcast with Priscilla Shirer. THE ESSENTIAL LIST   ASK A QUESTION - TELL A STORY - CONNECT WITH US

When in Rome - "When We Disagree, Agree in This" - Romans 14 We are told in verse 1 of Romans 14 to accept the weak; make allowances for the weak. That means my personal convictions and opinions are not scriptural authority - keep it between yourself and God. Give room for differences, and most importantly, don't tear apart the work of God.  How often have we all seen churches ruptured by differences of opinion? We should not tell others what they "ought" to be doing based on our personal convictions. Likewise, we should not ignore God's prompting when we are doing something in violation of our personal convictions. Can you follow your convictions when the crowd is going the opposite direction?

This week on Beyond Sunday, Josh is joined by Paxton, Chaney, and Michael for a fun and thought-provoking episode. Things kick off with “Romans Remix”—a creative (and hilarious) game rephrasing Romans 1–12 into modern slang. But beneath the laughs, the team wrestles with the deeper message of Romans 12 and what it truly means to live a life fully surrendered to Jesus. They share personal stories of surrender, discuss how transformation happens beyond surface-level change, and challenge listeners to evaluate who's really "on the throne" of their hearts. It's a powerful reminder: if it's all about Jesus, then everything in us should reflect that.  

When in Rome - "The Purpose of It All: Transformation" - Romans 12:1-2 This is the crux of it all. The first word in this chapter is, "Therefore," which is a way of saying...Everything I've said up to here is all for this purpose! Paul pleads with the readers to give our bodies as a sacrifice - a living sacrifice. Is it too much to give to God our bodies? That is often the thing we want to hold back. Listen to the slogans of our age, "My body, my choice," "You do you, I'll do me." And when we give him our bodies, Paul pleads that it be a holy sacrifice. And it is a sacrifice that is to be put to work. Your body AND the gift of the Spirit who is in you and gifts you. And while you are giving your body to the Lord, also be sure to take care of His body, the church. You are a part of it, and everything that happens in you, to you, because of you has an impact in His body.

This week's Beyond Sunday podcast brings together father/daughter duo, Steve and Hannah Buttram, with Michael Shearon, and Paxton Redd for a lively, heartfelt conversation. The crew kicks off with a hilarious discussion on unexpected food combinations (peanut butter and pickles, anyone?) before diving into Sunday's sermon from Romans 10. The passage reveals Paul's deep longing for Israel's salvation and challenges us to examine the difference between legalism and genuine relationship with Christ.   The team explores the burden of responsibility we share as believers to spread the gospel — not just pastors, but every follower of Jesus. They unpack the Great Commission, the dangers of legalism and cheap grace, and practical ways to share Christ in everyday life. Along the way, you'll hear personal stories from mission trips, insights into transformation through surrender, and a preview of what's ahead in Romans 12.   ASK A QUESTION – TELL A STORY – CONNECT WITH US

When in Rome - "The Longing of My Heart" - Romans 10:1-17 What do you long for? What moves you? Where have you planted your affection? Paul opens his heart in Romans 10. Don't miss the power of his words, "The longing of my heart and my prayer to God is for the people of Israel to be saved." Paul didn't just have his three. Paul had his nation! These were his people. Is that the heart we have? Who are your three? Are you praying daily? Are you inviting? These needs to be at the heart of every believer and every church. This has to be our heart as a church, for our city, for our family, for the flock God has entrusted to us.

This week on the Beyond Sunday podcast, Josh Hensley is joined by Cliff, Tate, and Nora for a lively conversation that blends fun, faith, and reflection. The team dives into Cliff's sermon on Romans 8, exploring what it means to be fully convinced of God's love and promises—especially in seasons of struggle versus seasons of success. They unpack “mountaintop vs. valley” experiences and share personal testimonies of God's faithfulness in hard times.   Alongside the deeper discussion, they play a spirited round of “Convinced or Confused?” debating everything from pineapple on pizza to daylight savings time and whether cereal counts as soup. Nora also highlights the church's local and global mission opportunities, including the new prayer wall in the missions hallway and ways to get involved without leaving Hopkinsville. ASK A QUESTION - TELL A STORY - CONNECT WITH US

When in Rome - "He Is for You" - Romans  Paul is building toward a crescendo. There is no condemnation! You are not controlled by your sinful nature! You have the Spirit of God! The Holy Spirit helps us in every weakness! And almost as if he is shouting, Paul declares: If God is for us, who can ever be against us? God is for us.  He is FOR you. What an amazing thought! There is nothing that could ever separate us from Christ's love. The troubles of life do not negate the love of God. What are you facing? What are you enduring? It does not change God. It does not change your status in Him.

In this episode, Josh Hensley, Steve Buttram, Michael Shearon, and Kevin Lee engage in a powerful and deeply personal discussion. The team starts with a lighthearted trip down memory lane, sharing the childhood movies that scarred them for life (we're looking at you, Little Monsters and Poltergeist). But the tone quickly shifts as they unpack Kevin's sermon from Romans 8, reflecting on how God works through suffering and how the Spirit intercedes in our weakness. The group shares real stories of painful seasons, the long waits in the “desert,” and the quiet comfort of knowing God is near even when there are no words left to pray. A quote from Tim Keller sparks conversation about how even our groans are heard by God, and Kevin offers a reminder that while God may not cause everything, He can work in everything. They close with exciting updates on New Work's mission efforts, a look ahead to Friend Day and Lakeside Baptism on August 24, and a joyful sendoff as Kevin heads into sabbatical.   ASK A QUESTION - TELL A STORY - CONNECT WITH US

When in Rome - "The Promise for When Life Is Hard" - Romans 8:26-30 What can we say? Life is hard. We all face struggles. Paul talked about suffering (ours and in the world) just prior to these verses. He speaks of "groaning" - and yes, life does have a groaning quality. In fact, the longer we live, the more acquainted with grief and groaning we become. But, there is a glorious day coming! And in the meantime, God is at work even in the suffering, hardship, and groaning. There is good that comes from the bad. So what are we to do in the hardship? Get to know the Holy Spirit; practice prayer; trust the goodness of the heavenly Father; invest yourself in the relationships of brothers and sisters; look forward, not backward.

This week, Josh Hensley is joined by Paxton Redd, Tate Wells, and summer youth intern Chase Duncan as they unpack the rich truths of Romans 8:1–11. Together, they explore what it means to live in the Spirit—freed from condemnation, empowered by Christ's righteousness, and transformed from the inside out. The group reflects on how easy it is to feel unworthy of grace, yet how powerfully freeing it is to grasp that Jesus did all the work.   Along the way, Paxton leads a fun Bible limerick game, Chase previews his Wednesday night student message on “magnifying the cost” of temptation, and they all look ahead to this Sunday's sermon on Romans 8:28, where Kevin will preach “The Promise for When Life is Hard.” With Kevin's sabbatical approaching, the team encourages prayer for rest and renewal. They also highlight the impact of Wednesday nights at New Work—for all ages, with spiritual growth, community, and even a “triple chicken sandwich” or two.  

When in Rome - "Life in the Spirit" - Romans 8:1-11 There is no condemnation. What an amazing statement! And it is that Spirit indwelling of the believer that gives us not only freedom from sin and death, but also direction for living. The more we allow the Spirit of God to direct our thinking, the more life and peace we will experience. This promise is ultimately revealed when the Spirit of God raises us from death. Jesus was the first of the resurrection, but He will not be the last!

Hosted by Michael Shearon, Justin Eshenbaugh, Josh Hensley, and special guest Eva Self, this week's episode blends summer fun with deep spiritual insight. They kick things off with a hilarious and surprisingly educational game called Scoop or Spoof, challenging everyone to guess which outrageous Ben & Jerry's ice cream flavors are real. (Spoiler alert: “Holy Chipotle Fudge” didn't make the cut.)   But the heart of the episode is a powerful conversation on helplessness and grace. Justin reflects on his recent sermon from Romans and the reality that we are truly helpless without Christ. Eva shares part of her testimony, her journey through paralysis, and the profound ways God has continued to fill her life with purpose. The team unpacks how feelings of helplessness can become divine moments of surrender and strength—and how even parents can't save their kids from the testimony God is writing in their lives.   ASK A QUESTION - TELL A STORY - CONNECT WITH US

When in Rome - "The Struggle is Real" - Romans 7:14-25 Many of us feel trapped by sin, as if something within us is pulling us in the wrong direction. This internal struggle between our desires and what we truly need can be overwhelming—even the apostle Paul expressed deep frustration with it. Yet, we are not without hope. Just like a hero coming to the rescue, Jesus is the answer to our struggle and the one who sets us free.

In this dynamic and heartfelt episode of Beyond Sunday, Josh welcomes Communications Pastor Justin Eshenbaugh, Middle School Pastor Evan Ryan, and elder—and real-life American Ninja Warrior—Marc Namie. With humor and honesty, the team reflects on Kevin's sermon from Romans 5, “A Friend Unlike Any Other,” exploring how God's grace surrounds us: beyond us, before us, and behind us. Their game, New Work Ninja: Would You Rather Edition, creatively puts endurance, leadership, and spiritual grit to the test—bringing laughter and insight into the challenges of ministry life.   Marc shares powerful moments from his journey, from American Ninja Warrior to raising four athletic kids, and gives testimony to how grace shaped him through pride, disappointment, and God's redirection. The episode wraps with each host offering vulnerable, personal stories of encountering grace in real life—cheating in homeschool, repeated water spills, traffic stops, and parenting mishaps—all pointing back to the truth that grace is not earned, but freely given through Jesus. Whether you feel too far gone or simply need a reminder, this conversation is a warm, encouraging call to receive grace and live it out daily.  

When in Rome - "A Friend Unlike Any Other" - Romans 5:1-11 The good news is found in Jesus, who replaces sin's shame with God's glory and empowers us through the Holy Spirit to grow amid struggles. At just the right time, He gave the perfect gift—rescuing us from God's wrath. Jesus, the friend of sinners, has made us friends of God.

This week on Beyond Sunday, Josh Hensley is joined by Steve Buttram, Cliff Hines, and special guest Chase Duncan—our newest intern at New Work. The team kicks things off with a challenging (and occasionally uncomfortable) round of “Over It or Into It,” exploring everyday habits that can become idols—like binge-watching TV on Sabbath, obsessing over gear, or reading Christian books more than the Bible. Their honest, often funny, and sometimes convicting responses set the stage for a deeper dive into Sunday's sermon on Romans 1.   The heart of the conversation centers on the tension between truth and love. They unpack Michael Shearon's message about how God's anger is righteous, how idolatry breeds immorality, and how God will eventually give us over to what we worship. Steve vulnerably shares about loving his son while not affirming his lifestyle—a moving example of agape love without compromise. The episode ends with a powerful reminder: everyone is welcome at New Work, but the Gospel always calls us to transformation. It's a full episode—humble, bold, and full of grace.  

When in Rome - "It Really Is Good News" - Romans 1:18-23 God is relentless in His love and purpose for our lives. His wrath is not against people but against sin and death. Those who lead others into sin face His judgment, yet even His wrath is expressed as "God abandoned them"—not out of spite, but as a heartbreaking act of letting go when someone chooses to reject Him. Like a loving parent, God does not force Himself on anyone. He has revealed His truth through creation, Scripture, and ultimately through Jesus. If we reject Him, He lets us go—but the good news is, there is a Savior, and a Father who loves us with a fierce, unwavering love.

This week on Beyond Sunday, Josh Hensley hosts alongside Paxton Redd, David Rambo, and Tate Wells. The team kicks off the episode with a hilarious round of “That Church Would Never,” a real-or-fake game exposing wild church antics—everything from fog machine baptisms to alpaca controversies at New Work! Their laughter sets the stage for a deeper conversation on faith, obedience, and the unsung ways God uses ordinary people in extraordinary ways. As the “When in Rome” series launches, Paxton reflects on the famous faith of the early Roman church and challenges believers to live lives that make Jesus known far and wide. The group shares personal stories, celebrates record-breaking VBS impact, and leans into the simple yet powerful truth that God uses those who simply keep showing up. Whether you're leading a ministry or just learning to trust God more each day, this episode reminds us that our faithful obedience leaves a legacy heaven never forgets.

When in Rome - "All About the Gospel" - Romans 1:15-17 The apostle Paul had a unique relationship with Rome, or more accurately, the church in Rome. In Acts 19:21, Paul declared, "I must go on to Rome!" This wasn't a sightseeing tour; Paul had a nudge from the Holy Spirit. In Acts 23:11, following his arrest in Jerusalem, the Lord comes to Paul. The verse says, "That night the Lord appeared to Paul and said, 'Be encouraged, Paul. Just as you have been a witness to me here in Jerusalem, you must preach the Good News in Rome as well.'"

In this episode, Josh Hensley, Evan Ryan, Michael Shearon, and Paxton Redd wrap up the series on sin and suffering with a lively round of “Would You Rather: Mildly Suffering Edition,” sharing cringey scenarios like popcorn kernels, spider mouths, and misnaming church members (on accident, of course). The game sets the stage for a vulnerable, honest conversation about how suffering challenges our faith but also gives us opportunity to reflect Christ, grow in hope, and testify to God's goodness—especially when we feel most broken. Michael recaps his message on John 9, unpacking three biblical reasons we may suffer: because of sin (ours or others'), to reveal God's glory through our story, and to help us truly see what matters. The team tackles hard questions like “Is there really a heaven?” and encourages listeners not to isolate in pain, but to trust in God's purpose even when the ‘why' isn't clear. They close with a passionate look ahead to the new sermon series in Romans, inviting everyone to read, reflect, and walk through the book together this summer.

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?