Northshore Christian Church

Pastor Damian teaches from Acts 9, focusing on Saul's dramatic transformation after encountering Jesus on the road to Damascus. Once a fierce persecutor of Christians, Saul is blinded, healed by Ananias, baptized, and chosen as a key instrument to spread the gospel. Damian parallels this transformation with how life-altering events can reveal who we truly are and lead to profound personal change. #Transformation #BookOfActs #SaulsConversion #RiseOfTheChurch #FaithJourney

Pastor Nick shared a personal story of financial hardship to illustrate how God uses seasons of testing to transform our faith. Using Abraham's test with Isaac from Hebrews 11, he emphasized that faith involves trust even when God's ways seem confusing or painful. While testing is difficult and often misunderstood, God uses it to shape us into who He wants us to be. #FaithTested #TrustGod #TransformationThroughTrials #HonestFaith #GodRedeems

Pastor Nick introduced Pentecost Sunday by comparing it to jumping into the middle of a larger story, like *Star Wars*, emphasizing that Pentecost didn't begin in Acts 2. He explained that it has deep roots in Jewish tradition, specifically the Feast of Weeks celebrated 50 days after Passover, when people brought offerings and remembered God's covenant. Pentecost is part of a long-standing story of God's promises and preparation, leading to the Spirit-filled life we're called to live today. #PentecostSunday #GodsStory #SpiritFilledLife #BiblicalRoots #FeastOfWeeks

Pastor Damian introduces a sermon from Acts 8 focused on being prepared to share one's faith, using the story of NFL quarterback Brock Purdy to illustrate how readiness can lead to unexpected impact. He highlights Philip's example, who shared the Gospel in Samaria after being scattered, showing that faithfulness in tough moments fulfills Jesus' command to go. Damian challenges listeners to move beyond merely attending church and start actively living out their faith. **#BeTheChurch** **#FaithInAction** **#ReadyWhenCalled** **#Acts8** **#RiseAndImpact**

Pastor Scott Harris emphasizes that the core mission of the church is to make disciples who follow Jesus, are transformed by Him, and join His mission. He explains that discipleship is not merely a church activity but the foundation of Christian life, rooted in Jesus' command from Matthew 28. Using Acts 8 and Jesus' calling of ordinary fishermen, he highlights how God uses everyday people to advance His kingdom. **#DiscipleshipInAction #GreatCommission #FollowJesus #ChurchMission #FaithJourney**

Speaker: Scott Harris, Lead Pastor The sermon **"Built for Success"** from the *Rise* series focuses on Acts 6 and the early church's need for structure amid rapid growth and cultural diversity. Tensions between Hellenist and Hebrew believers over neglected widows reveal the church's struggle to live out Jesus's teachings of compassion and justice. Pastor Scott Harris emphasizes that the church must be intentionally built to reflect Jesus's character through love, fairness, and organized leadership. **#BuiltForSuccess #EarlyChurch #Acts6 #ChurchLeadership #FaithInAction**

Speaker: Damian Thompson, Online & Outreach Pastor Pastor Damian reflects on the imperfect yet heartfelt ways we celebrate Mother's Day, honoring not just moms but all women who nurture others, often without recognition. He highlights two biblical women—the widow of Zarephath and the Canaanite woman—who showed unmatched obedience and faith in times of deep struggle. Through their stories, he reminds us that true mothering is defined by sacrifice, perseverance, and trust in God. #UnmatchedFaith #MotheringMatters #BiblicalWomen #FaithInAction #ThankYouMoms

Brian O'Neal reintroduces himself to North Shore and reflects on his growing involvement with the church, setting the stage for a sermon on Acts 8:1–8. He explains how Stephen's martyrdom, approved by Saul, sparked a wave of persecution that scattered the early church and unexpectedly spread the gospel. O'Neal emphasizes that this story is not just historical but deeply connected to the church's ongoing mission today. **#Acts8 #EarlyChurch #FaithInAction #GospelSpread #StephenAndSaul**

Pastor Nick reflects on the early chapters of Acts, highlighting the unstoppable spread of the gospel through the power of the Holy Spirit despite opposition. He shares a personal story of his marriage proposal to illustrate the idea of an "unstoppable plan," drawing a parallel to God's greater plan to redeem and restore the world through Jesus. Using Stephen's story, Nick emphasizes that God's presence is uncontainable, His story is bigger than tradition, and His kingdom continues to advance through His people today. #UnstoppablePlan #BookOfActs #FaithInAction #GodsKingdom #StephenTheMartyr

The message from Scott Harris, Lead Pastor, celebrates Easter as the dawn of a new day brought by Jesus's resurrection, symbolizing hope, victory, and light after darkness. Through a personal story of a long, cold night waiting for sunrise, the speaker draws a parallel to the despair and then joy experienced by Jesus's followers. He encourages listeners to view their lives through the light of the resurrection and embrace the hope it brings. **#HeIsRisen #EasterSunday #NewDayNewHope #LightAfterDarkness #ResurrectionPower**

Sanjay Merchant introduces Palm Sunday by contrasting Jesus's humble "Triumphal Entry" into Jerusalem with the grand Roman triumphs of generals like Julius Caesar. While Roman triumphs were lavish, military parades celebrating conquest and power, Jesus enters on a donkey, fulfilling prophecy and displaying a radically different kind of kingship marked by humility and divine authority. The message challenges conventional ideas of greatness, showing that true triumph in God's kingdom looks nothing like worldly glory. #PalmSunday #JesusTheKing #HumbleTriumph #BiblicalProphecy #KingdomOfGod

Speaker: Scott Harris, Lead Pastor

Speaker: Damian Thompson, Online & Outreach Pastor Pastor Damian discusses the contrast between generosity and deception in Acts 4 and 5, highlighting Barnabas' selflessness versus Ananias and Sapphira's dishonesty. Their attempt to deceive the early church leads to their sudden deaths, emphasizing the seriousness of integrity before God. This passage serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of honesty and wholehearted devotion in the Christian faith. #IntegrityMatters #FaithAndHonesty #RiseSeries #Acts5Lesson #ChurchCommunity

Pastor Scott Harris discusses the rapid growth of the early church in Acts, highlighting how God uses individuals like Peter and a once-ignored crippled man to create a massive impact. He draws parallels to historical figures like Noah, Moses, and David, emphasizing that God still calls individuals today to be part of His mission. Harris challenges the congregation to consider how God can work through them, especially when individuals unite for a greater purpose. #RiseOfTheChurch #GodUsesOne #ActsSeries #FaithInAction #BeATestament

Mark Mielbrecht, a teaching pastor at Northshore, shares a message during Lent, emphasizing that Christianity is more than just behavior modification—it's about experiencing God's power and grace. He recounts the story from Acts where Peter and John heal a lame beggar in Jesus' name, leading to their imprisonment and bold testimony before religious leaders. Encouraging the congregation, he urges them to be filled with the Holy Spirit, use God's Word as a source of healing, and live with bold faith that points others to Christ. #FaithInAction #BoldnessInChrist #HealingThroughJesus #PowerOfTheHolySpirit #LentReflections

Speaker: Scott Harris, Lead Pastor The *Rise* series explores how the early church, empowered by the Holy Spirit, began its mission from Jerusalem to the ends of the earth, a mission that continues today. Through the healing of a crippled man in Acts 3, we see Jesus' heart for the individual and the power of the Gospel to transform lives. However, opposition arises in Acts 4, marking the beginning of Christian persecution, a challenge that still exists today. #RiseUp #BookOfActs #FaithInAction #GospelTransformation #JesusChangesLives

Pastor Nick discusses the human longing for justice but emphasizes that true healing, repentance, and renewal come through Jesus, not just fairness. Acts 3:11-26 illustrates how Jesus, the "Author of Life," brings transformation, as seen in the miraculous healing of a man. God's work throughout history has been to restore and redeem humanity, offering wholeness through His grace. #GraceOverJustice #HealingInJesus #FaithAndRenewal #Acts3 #AuthorOfLife

Pastor Damian introduces the second part of the "Rise" journey, focusing on the Book of Acts, where Jesus ascends, and the Holy Spirit empowers the early church. He highlights the healing of a lame man by Peter and John, emphasizing the transformative power of miracles in Jesus' name. The message encourages seeing this event from the perspective of the healed man and recognizing the ongoing impact of faith today. #RiseJourney #BookOfActs #HolySpiritPower #FaithInAction #MiraclesInJesusName

Speaker: Scott Harris, Lead Pastor The rise of the church, as seen in Acts, began with the Holy Spirit's powerful arrival, uniting believers in devotion to Jesus' teachings, fellowship, and prayer. The early church shared everything, lived in unity, and grew daily, embodying Christ's mission as the bride of Christ. This message challenges believers to not just know Scripture but to live it out as the foundation of their faith. #RiseOfTheChurch #ActsOfTheApostles #HolySpiritPower #LiveTheWord #BrideOfChrist

Speaker: Scott Harris, Lead Pastor This message emphasizes the ongoing nature of the Book of Acts, highlighting that the church is still active in fulfilling its purpose today. The sermon focuses on Pentecost, the birth of the church, and the powerful coming of the Holy Spirit, which led to people miraculously hearing the Gospel in their own languages. Some were amazed by this event, while others mocked it, suggesting the followers of Jesus were drunk. This skepticism mirrors modern criticisms of Christianity, such as claims that the Bible is untrustworthy or that faith is merely a crutch. Peter, once fearful and denying Jesus, boldly stands before thousands and delivers the first Christian sermon. He defends the gospel's trustworthiness by anchoring it in prophecy, specifically referencing the prophet Joel. Peter explains that the outpouring of the Holy Spirit fulfills Joel's prophecy, demonstrating that God's plan is unfolding as foretold. This connection between prophecy and the Gospel reassures believers that their faith is well-founded and encourages them to trust in God's word. Ultimately, the message calls listeners to step into their faith, be filled with the Holy Spirit, and continue God's work in the world.

Nick Steinloski, a pastor at North Shore, emphasizes praxis—applying theology in daily life—and explores the Book of Acts, focusing on the disciples' obedience in waiting for the Holy Spirit. He highlights Pentecost as a pivotal moment of transformation, especially in Peter, who goes from denying Jesus to boldly preaching. He poses three key questions for reflection: What is our position? What is our response? How do others respond? #FaithInAction #HolySpiritPower #BookOfActs #Pentecost #SpiritualTransformation

Speaker: Damian Thompson, Online & Outreach Pastor Pastor Damian Thompson continues teaching in the sermon series on the book of Acts, focusing on being "Empowered by the Holy Spirit" and trusting God's plan, timing, and leadership. He reflects on the disciples' obedience to Jesus' command to wait in Jerusalem despite fear and uncertainty, highlighting their unity and faith as they processed the absence of both Jesus and Judas. The message challenges believers to trust, obey, and remain devoted in prayer through life's uncertainties. #FaithInAction #TrustGodsPlan #EmpoweredByTheSpirit #ObedienceInWaiting #UnityInChrist

Speaker: Scott Harris, Lead Pastor In Acts 1, the Ascension of Jesus marks the completion of God's rescue plan, signifying victory over sin and death. The promise of Christ's return, as foretold by angels, frames the church's mission to spread the gospel until He comes again. Believers are called to rise and do the work of God between these two pivotal moments. #Ascension #ChristReturn #GreatCommission #RescuePlan #ChurchMission

Speaker: Dr. Sanjay Merchant, Adjunct Teaching Pastor The sermon series *Rise* delves into the Book of Acts, tracing the apostles' journey and the early church's growth over 11 months, beginning with Acts 1:1-8. Authored by Luke, Acts builds on his Gospel, offering a chronological account of the church's expansion and the apostles' ministry. The Gospels are interrelated, with Mark as the earliest, followed by Matthew and Luke for specific audiences, and John providing a later, unique perspective. #RiseSeries #BookOfActs #EarlyChurch #GospelNarratives #LukeAndActs

Speaker: Dave Wallace, Elder The message focuses on Hebrews 12:2, urging believers to "fix their eyes on Jesus" and persevere in faith like runners in a race. The preacher compares Christ's perfection to the Old Testament symbols, encouraging the audience to remain steadfast through hardships by paying attention to Christ's teachings, exhorting one another, and holding to sound doctrine. The analogy reminds believers of the eternal stakes of their faith, calling them to endure with unwavering commitment. #FixYourEyesOnJesus #FaithfulLiving #Hebrews12 #StaySteadfast #RunTheRace

Speaker: Nick Steinloski, Executive Pastor of Ministries This message focuses on Deuteronomy 6 and its teachings on discipleship. The speaker highlights the importance of the "Shema," a prayer that remains central to Jewish practice, recited twice daily. Within Deuteronomy 6:1–6, Moses presents foundational principles for discipleship, emphasizing the need to love God with all one's heart, soul, and strength. The sermon outlines three key areas for cultivating discipleship: personal spiritual growth, family investment, and active participation in the faith community. The speaker identifies a "discipleship crisis" in America, citing research that reveals alarming trends of young people abandoning their faith, often as early as age 13. Factors contributing to this include a lack of personal ownership of faith and diminished connection to the church. This crisis prompts a call to action for individuals, families, and faith communities to prioritize discipleship. The speaker underscores that these efforts must begin with personal reflection and commitment, as love for God serves as the central bond uniting all aspects of discipleship. The urgency of addressing this issue is clear, with practical strategies offered to strengthen relationships with God, nurture faith within families, and build supportive, thriving faith communities that equip the next generation to remain steadfast in their beliefs.

Speaker: Damian Thompson, Online & Outreach Pastor Luke 2 narrates the birth of Jesus, beginning with a Roman census requiring Joseph and Mary to travel to Bethlehem, Joseph's ancestral home as a descendant of King David. In Bethlehem, Mary gives birth to Jesus and lays him in a manger due to a lack of lodging. Bethlehem's significance is rooted in prophecy and history, being the city of King David and the foretold birthplace of the Messiah as prophesied by Micah. This fulfills centuries of anticipation by Israel for a Savior who would bring peace, justice, and restoration. Matthew 2 highlights the arrival of wise men seeking the "King of the Jews," which incites King Herod's paranoia. Herod orders the massacre of Bethlehem's male infants to eliminate the threat, forcing Joseph, Mary, and Jesus to flee to Egypt for safety, making them refugees. This flight draws a poignant parallel to modern-day refugees seeking safety from persecution and conflict. After Herod's death, Joseph's family returns to Israel and settles in Nazareth, an unremarkable and poor village with no prior religious or historical significance. Jesus' upbringing in humble Nazareth contrasts with His divine purpose, emphasizing how extraordinary things arise from ordinary places. The narrative ties prophecies, historical context, and modern relevance, reminding readers of God's care for all, especially the vulnerable.

In this sermon series, we've explored different aspects of longing, beginning with Dr. Sanjay's reflection on longing for the Messiah and Pastor Scott's talk on longing for Emmanuel. Today, the focus shifts to longing for the child, as we look at Isaiah chapter 9. Longing often arises from wanting something we don't have or mourning what we've lost, which can lead to joy or sorrow depending on whether our desires are fulfilled. Unfulfilled longing, as Proverbs 13:12 says, can lead to heartache, cynicism, and even loss of hope. In the dark times of the past, the people of Judah were immersed in fear, despair, and oppression, as they turned away from God and sought help from worldly powers, leading to their suffering. Isaiah 9 promises a "great light" will shine on them, a prophecy fulfilled through Jesus, born in the land of Zebulun and Naphtali, regions once shrouded in darkness. This Savior, described in Isaiah 9:6 as "Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace," brings hope and light to a world in darkness, fulfilling the promise of God's enduring presence and peace. The people, who had walked in darkness, now see this great light, and the joy of their salvation is compared to the joy of a bountiful harvest. This prophecy is not only a promise for ancient Israel but also a message that Jesus, as the light of the world, continues to dwell in the hearts of believers today, offering hope and restoration.

Speaker: Scott Harris, Lead Pastor Scott Harris, Lead Pastor, begins by discussing the process of planning a Christmas series, which he starts thinking about months in advance. His wife suggests a theme of "longing," which immediately resonates with him and sparks an emotional reflection on the deep desire for Jesus seen throughout Scripture. The series will focus on Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah, particularly from Isaiah 7, which highlights the theme of longing for Emmanuel. The speaker explains the historical setting of Isaiah, where Israel and Judah are divided, and Judah faces the threat of attack from Israel and Syria. King Ahaz of Judah, lacking faith and character, succumbs to fear and aligns with the evil Assyrian empire, even offering tribute from the temple to secure their protection. The speaker emphasizes how fear and adversity reveal one's character, citing examples from life, including marriage and personal struggles, where true character is exposed in times of difficulty. The narrative highlights the contrast between Ahaz's failure and the deeper longing for God's intervention and the coming of the Messiah.

Speaker: Dr. Sanjay Merchant, Adjunct Teaching Pastor The new sermon series focuses on the "longing" for a coming King, exploring the prophecies of the Old Testament, specifically through the lenses of Hosea and Isaiah, and their messages about this promised King. These prophets, from the 8th century BC, speak of an "Anointed One"—the Messiah (or Christ)—who would fulfill God's promises to His people. In Hosea 3, the prophet uses the metaphor of Hosea's troubled marriage to Gomer to illustrate Israel's unfaithfulness to God and their coming period of exile. Despite their sin, God promises redemption, symbolized by Hosea's eventual reconciliation with Gomer, pointing to the future return of the Israelites to their God and the coming of a perfect descendant of David, a new King, who would restore their relationship with God. Isaiah 11 expands on this vision, prophesying a new King from the "stump of Jesse" (David's father), who will embody God's spirit, wisdom, righteousness, and judgment. This King is both a descendant (the shoot) and the origin (the root) of David, signifying a divine ruler who will bring peace and justice. The passage emphasizes that this King will be unlike previous leaders, who often led Israel astray into pagan practices, instead faithfully embodying God's character. The ultimate fulfillment of these prophecies is seen in the New Testament, where Jesus is revealed as the true Messiah, fulfilling both the legal and biological lines of David, and offering the eternal kingship promised in 2 Samuel 7. Through these prophecies, the series highlights the longing for a true, righteous King who will bring peace, justice, and restoration, ultimately pointing to Jesus Christ as the fulfillment of God's promises to Israel and the world.

Speaker: Josh Rogers, Worship Arts Pastor Today marks the conclusion of the "Names of God" series, and we're reflecting on how these names have impacted our faith over the past ten weeks. The series has deepened our understanding of God's character, helping us connect more personally with His attributes such as Jehovah Jireh (our provider), Jehovah Rohi (our shepherd), and Jehovah Shalom (our peace). Many have found that these names have shaped their prayer life and perspective, especially during challenging seasons. One worship team member shared how, during a season of pruning, they have found comfort in God's names like El Shaddai (God Almighty) and Jehovah Shalom, trusting in His goodness despite difficult circumstances. This series has encouraged us to grow and be transformed by the truth of who God is. As we reflect on what we've learned, we remember that God's revealed names are not separate roles He plays, but facets of His unchanging nature. These names, from Yahweh (I Am) to Jehovah, show us that God is always fully who He is, even if different aspects of Him are revealed in different seasons. This brings us to the final name of the series, Jehovah Nissi—"The Lord is my Banner." Today, we'll explore this name through the story in Exodus 17, where God's provision and protection are displayed.

Speaker: Damian Thompson, Online & Outreach Pastor

Speaker: Dr. Bryan O'Neal, Biblical Foundation Teacher

Speaker: Scott Harris, Lead Pastor

In Genesis 22, God tests Abraham by instructing him to sacrifice his beloved son Isaac. Obediently, Abraham sets out for Mount Moriah with Isaac and two young men, demonstrating his faith despite the emotional turmoil of the impending sacrifice. During their journey, which takes three days, Abraham grapples with his feelings about sacrificing his only heir, a promise from God that he had waited for many years. When they arrive, Abraham builds an altar and prepares to sacrifice Isaac, but an angel intervenes, stopping him and confirming Abraham's faithfulness. Instead, God provides a ram caught in a thicket for the sacrifice. This event leads Abraham to name the location "Jehovah Jireh," meaning "The Lord will provide." Finally, God reaffirms His promise to Abraham, declaring that his descendants will be numerous and blessed, underscoring the significance of faith and obedience in divine testing.

The discussion centers on the name of God, specifically Yahweh, which has significant relational meaning. Yahweh is introduced in Scripture and represents a personal connection with God. After the Babylonian captivity, the Hebrew people began to revere God's name so deeply that they replaced Yahweh with Adonai during public readings. This shift meant that when they encountered Yahweh, they would instead say Adonai, which incorporates vowels from that title to signify respect. Adonai translates to "Lord" and conveys authority and sovereignty, emphasizing God as the highest ruler. In Deuteronomy 10:17, God is described as "God of gods and Lord of lords," reinforcing His supreme power. The personalized form, represented in English translations as "Lord" (with a capital L and lowercase o), highlights a relational aspect, akin to a father-child dynamic, emphasizing not just God's position but also His intimate relationship with believers. Speaker: Scott Harris, Lead Pastor

Speaker: Shane Hawely Viewing the world through a "God-colored lens," emphasizes how our experiences shape our perspectives. Critical incidents and trauma can significantly affect how we see others. Romans 12:1-2 highlights the importance of transformation and avoiding conformity to worldly views. Pride can lead to judgment, as illustrated in the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector (Luke 18:9-14), along with teachings from Philippians 2:3 and Romans 12:16, which advocate for humility. Hardened hearts can obscure our recognition of others' humanity, as seen in the story of Pharaoh (Exodus 7-13). However, the light of Christ offers hope, affirming that no one is beyond redemption (John 1:5). Jesus is presented as the solution for healing hardened hearts, encouraging us to view others through His lens. Finally, the call to action is to embrace the love of God and recognize our identity as His children (1 John 3:1).

Speaker: Dr. Sanjay Merchant, Adjunct Teaching Pastor

In today's church message, the focus is on the name El Roi, explored through Genesis 16. The name's first part, "El," is a common term for God in Semitic languages, which include those historically spoken by the peoples of Mesopotamia, Arabia, and Ethiopia. The term signifies "the strong one." The latter part, "Roi," has three interpretations: seeing, my seeing, and the one who sees me. The emphasis is on the last definition, which reflects a personal experience of Hagar, highlighting God's attention and protection. Nahum Sarna, a biblical translator, adds depth by suggesting that the various meanings of El Roi are intended to be understood simultaneously. This creates a rich understanding of God as the one who sees—both universally and personally—inviting the congregation to embrace this multifaceted perspective.

Speaker: Scott Harris, Lead Pastor

Speaker: Dr. Sanjay Merchant, Adjunct Teaching Pastor

Speaker: Damian Thompson, Online & Outreach Pastor

Speaker: Scott Harris, Lead Pastor

Speaker: Scott Harris, Lead Pastor

Speaker: Scott Harris, Lead Pastor

Speaker: Damian Thompson, Online & Outreach Pastor

Speaker: Dr. Sanjay Merchant, Adjunct Teaching Pastor

Scott Harris - Lead Pastor

Speaker: Scott Harris, Lead Pastor

Speaker: Mark Mielbrecht, Missions Partner with Global Service Associates

Speaker: Scott Harris, Lead Pastor