Northwest Hills Community Church

Lead Pastor Josh Carstensen continues our Sermon on the Mount series.There are moments in life when thinking about decisions isn't enough—when you have to choose. In Matthew 7, Jesus brings us to exactly that crossroads.He presents us with two clear paths: a narrow gate opening to a hard road, leading to real life, or a wide gate leading down an easy road, ultimately ending in ruin. Faith in Jesus isn't just a one-time moment—it's also a continuous journey of choosing to follow Him, even when it's difficult. Today, Jesus asks us directly: "Are you in?"Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on May 11, 2025, at 9:30am. You can find us online at nwhills.com.Key Moments00:00 Welcome01:07 Message: Choosing the Path of Faith07:00 The Narrow Gate and the Hard Road13:06 Striving for the Narrow Door17:07 The Narrow Gate: An Invitation for All22:33 The Hard Path: Living Out Jesus' Teachings26:10 Final Reflections: Making the Decision

Lead Pastor Josh Carstensen continues our Sermon on the Mount series.When people are difficult, Jesus doesn't tell us to avoid them. He calls us to engage with wisdom, grace, and courage. In Matthew 7, we're called to judge without a judgmental heart, pray when we feel stuck, and then act, even when no clear answer comes.And we're not just called to treat others fairly, but to treat them as we would want to be treated when we fall short. Thisisn't passive kindness; it's relentless love. The kind that pursues, initiates, and reflects the heart of God Himself. Who's God calling you to love like that this week?Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on May 4, 2025, at 9:30am. You can find us online at nwhills.com.Key Moments00:00 Welcome01:04 Navigating Complex Relationships05:43 Practical Guidance from Jesus11:17 The Golden Rule in Action16:32 Jesus' Radical Call to Action20:27 God's Pursuit Throughout Biblical History24:19 Reflecting God's Love in Our Lives

Today, youth pastor Gary Jones continues our Sermon on the Mount series.Ask and you will receive. Is this too good to be true? It's easy to doubt that God is listening sometimes, especially during difficult times. But when we really know God's heart, we will ask boldly for the good things that He has for us, because He desires to give good gifts to His children. When we trust in his goodness, we won't hesitate to bring our requests to Him, but will instead respond by earnestly seeking Him out.Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on April 27, 2025, at 9:30am. You can find us online at nwhills.com.Key Moments00:00 Welcome03:40 Message: Ask and You Will Receive08:41 The Importance of Prayer19:07 Understanding God's Heart21:28 God's Promises in Prayer27:25 The Nature of God's Gifts33:25 Encouragement to Ask Boldly38:37 Reflection and Prayer

Lead Pastor Josh Carsetensen celebrates Easter by inviting us to confront a deeper hunger: the ache for a leader who doesn't exploit but sacrifices. Who doesn't scatter, but gathers. In a world full of failed leaders and broken promises, Jesus dares to say: "I am the Good Shepherd." And then He proves it by restoring the blind, rescuing the anxious, and laying down His life.What if the thing you most need isn't money, healing, or even escape, but a Good Shepherd?Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on April 20, 2025, at 9:30am. You can find us online at nwhills.com.Key Moments00:00 Welcome00:56 Message: The Good Shepherd06:35 Biblical Leaders and Their Flaws11:14 God's Promise Through Ezekiel15:21 Jesus as the Fulfillment19:28 The Good Shepherd's Promise24:03 The Assurance of the Good Shepherd27:33 Responding to Jesus' Call

Lead Pastor Josh Carstensen continues our Sermon on the Mount series.We all judge—but Jesus invites us to think differently.Not to ignore sin, but to approach others with mercy, humility, and clarity. In a world quick to condemn, Jesus shows a better way: start with your own heart, discern gently, and love deeply.This Palm Sunday, as we remember Jesus weeping over a blind city, we're reminded—true judgment begins with compassion.So the question isn't if we'll judge. It's how.Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on April 13, 2025, at 9:30am. You can find us online at nwhills.com.Key Moments00:00 Welcome00:57 Message: Judging with Compassion02:30 The Meaning of 'Do Not Judge'10:51 Self-Reflection Before Judging Others14:26 Addressing Real Needs with Compassion15:28 The Necessity of Judgment17:51 God's Judgment and Compassion24:30 Reflecting on Personal Judgment

Lead Pastor Josh Carstensen continues our Sermon on the Mount series.Have you ever felt overwhelmed or trapped by anxiety about the future or things beyond your control? Maybe it's a relentless worry about finances, family, or world events—or even just the constant buzz of stress that never seems to fade.Today, Jesus addresses our anxiety. Through an honest look at our anxious hearts, guided by Jesus's timeless wisdom, we'll share practical ways to find spiritual peace right now. Imagine facing uncertainty without fear, trusting completely that your Heavenly Father truly sees you, cares deeply, and knows exactly what He's doing—even when life floods your basement.Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on April 6, 2025, at 9:30am. You can find us online at nwhills.com.Key Moments00:00 Welcome01:00 The Flooded Basement04:44 Understanding Anxiety10:35 Defining Anxiety and Its Cousins19:53 Jesus' Teachings on Anxiety22:36 Recognizing Our Heavenly Father26:45 Consider the Lilies: Trust and Faith31:12 Seek First the Kingdom of God33:48 Don't Worry About Tomorrow

Associate Pastor Ron King continues our Sermon on the Mount series.In a world that relentlessly urges you to chase fleeting possessions and fragile comforts, Jesus invites you into something deeper—something eternally significant. As we explore Matthew 6:19-24, Pastor Ron challenges us with a heart-checking truth: what you treasure most shapes the destiny of your heart.Today, ask yourself boldly: Do you have the courage to follow what Jesus truly says—to invest your life in what lasts forever? If you dare to see clearly, prioritizing treasures beyond this life, you'll uncover a purpose far richer than any earthly gain. Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on March 30, 2025, at 9:30am. You can find us online at nwhills.com.Key Moments00:00 Welcome01:00 Message: Investing in Eternal Treasures09:03 Investing in Eternal Treasures15:55 Personal Stories of Eternal Investments18:54 A Call to Eternal Action31:47 Prayer and Reflection Time

Worship Director Justin Jackson continues our Sermon on the Mount series and fasting—not as a religious performance,but as an honest way to realign our whole being with God. It's not about going without food; it's about shifting the spotlight.In a world obsessed with being seen, Jesus invites us to live for the unseen—to worship without performance, to suffer without self-pity, and to pursue God with undivided hearts.Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on March 23, 2025, at 11:00am. You can find us online at nwhills.com.Key Moments00:00 Welcome00:49 Message: Realigning with God Through Fasting06:50 Reflecting on Hardship11:56 The Heart Behind Fasting19:34 Jesus' Teachings on Fasting30:40 Final Reflections and Prayer

Lead pastor Josh Carstensen continues our Sermon on the Mount series.Similar to last week's topic of generosity, Jesus calls us to pray in secret. There are many ways we might subtly use prayer or spiritual practices to seek the approval of others, but ultimately this is a poor substitute for a genuine connection with God. Prayer starts with God and ends with us. If we can follow the model of prayer that Jesus gives us, we will have a much greater reward, found in an intimate and vulnerable place of dependence on the God who loves us deeply.Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on March 16, 2025, at 9:30am. You can find us online at nwhills.com.Key Moments00:00 Welcome 01:50 Message: Secret Prayer - Genuine Connection with God03:23 The Temptation of Public Prayer 06:02 The Subtlety of Seeking Attention 15:35 Barriers to Genuine Prayer 20:24 The Lord's Prayer: A Practical Example 33:38 The Unseen Heart Connects With the Unseen Father

Lead Pastor Josh Carstensen continues our Sermon on the Mount series.Have you ever felt secretly thrilled when someone noticed you doing something good? You're quietly reading your Bible or helping someone out—deep down, you're glad someone saw it, even though you didn't intend it. For the last six weeks, we've heard Jesus tell us clearly: Live your life boldly so others see your good deeds and glorify God.But in today's message, Jesus flips the script in his sermon. Suddenly, He says certain things should be hidden, lived quietly, away from public eyes. Why such a dramatic shift? Why does Jesus now tell us to live parts of our lives in secret—and what's at stake if we don't?If you've ever wrestled with the desire to be seen versus the call to humble secrecy, this is for you.Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on March 9, 2025, at 9:30am. You can find us online at nwhills.com.Key Moments00:00 Welcome01:11 Message: Embracing Humble Generosity04:10 The Dilemma of Public vs. Private Faith07:21 Jesus' Teaching on Secrecy13:51 Practical Applications of Secrecy18:45 The Heart of Giving in Scripture23:32 The Temptation of Self-Promotion30:09 The True Reward of Giving

Lead Pastor Josh Carstensen continues our Sermon on the Mount series.Loving your enemy is a command that defies our natural instincts. In a world that teaches retaliation, Jesus offers a revolutionary path: selfless, unconditional love. But how? What does that look like when enemies take advantage of you, hurt you, and oppose what you believe?In this final statement of six, Jesus confronts a big lie: that love is only for those who love us back. Instead, He calls us to a love so radical and countercultural that it makes people stop and ask, Why?Today, we'll unpack what it truly means to love our enemies—not by ignoring justice, but by mirroring the love God first showed us.Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on March 2, 2025 at 8:00am. You can find us online at nwhills.com.Key Moments00:00 Welcome01:03 Message: Love Our Enemies12:48 Historical Context: Enemies in Jesus's Time19:29 What Does It Mean to Love Your Enemy?26:15 The Challenge of Radical Love

Today, we are honored to hear three different preachers—Jacob Mills, James Cleary, and Andy Rosse—continue our Sermon on the Mount series. Each service featured a different preacher preaching from the same text; all three are included here. You can use the timestamps in the description to jump to a different service, but if you have the time, I recommend listening to all three because each of them approaches Jesus' words with a slightly different lens and emphasis.The text from today's sermons is Matthew 5:38-42, where Jesus addresses retaliation.Revenge feels natural. It's what the world craves—what every blockbuster glorifies. But Jesus flips the script. In one of His most radical teachings, He challenges us to lay down our rights, to respond to insults with grace, and to answer unfairness with bold generosity.Does turning the other cheek mean becoming a doormat? Is Jesus calling us to accept injustice? No. He's calling us to something far more powerful—to reclaim our dignity, to resist evil in a way that transforms hearts, and to trust in a justice far greater than our own.Today, each preacher will unpack what Jesus really meant—and what He didn't—when He said, "Do not resist the one who is evil." It's not weakness. It's kingdom strength. And it changes everything.Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on February 23, 2025. You can find us online at nwhills.com.Service Hours00:00 Welcome01:58 First Hour - Jacob Mills35:50 Second Hour - James Cleary01:01:56 Third Hour - Andy Rosse

Associate Pastor Ron King continues our Sermon on the Mount series.What if we lived in a world where transparent honesty was always the norm? What if everyone kept their promises and you never had your trust betrayed? What if you never fudged the truth to make yourself look good or to escape accountability?That's what the kingdom of Heaven looks like, but we're currently living far from it. So, in the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus shows us what it looks like to live and speak truthfully consistently and depend on Jesus because we're not as righteous as we think.Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on February 16, 2025, at 9:30am. You can find us online at nwhills.com.Key Moments00:00 Welcome01:00 Message: The Power of Truth10:36 Jesus' Teachings on Promises17:13 God's Vision for Truthfulness30:36 Communion and Reflection

Lead Pastor Josh Carstensen continues our Sermon on the Mount series.Matthew 5:31-32 says, "It was also said, 'Whoever divorces his wife, let him give her a certificate of divorce'. But I say to you that everyone who divorces his wife, except on the ground of sexual immorality, makes her commit adultery, and whoever marries a divorced woman commits adultery."While the circumstances around divorce and adultery are very personal, we want to bring a message of grace, truth, and the hope of the gospel. We hope you're encouraged by the words of Jesus, even if you're personally challenged by this topic.Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on February 9, 2025, at 9:30am. You can find us online at nwhills.com.Key Moments00:00 Welcome00:57 Message: Navigating the Pain of Divorce with Grace and Truth05:35 Exploring the Text: Matthew 5:31-3215:26 Cultural Context and Biblical Law20:46 Marriage and Divorce: A Deeper Look28:10 Encouragement for Singles30:38 Strengthening Marriages32:56 Hope and Healing for the Divorced38:35 Marriage Ministry Initiatives

Lead pastor Josh Carstensen continues our series on the Sermon on the Mount, as Jesus flips the script on how we tend to think about lust and adultery. When it comes to sexual sin and brokenness, all of us are in need of God's grace and mercy. Thankfully, Jesus also offers us a life of freedom, healing, and forgiveness, and he gives us a better way to live. When we embrace God's design for sexuality, we recognize that our sexual desires are something to be neither feared nor ruled by, but instead something to be formed and stewarded, as a gift. We will also hear from Duan Walker, the director of a local counseling ministry for those who need practical help and support on their journey toward wholeness and healing. Please note that this is a sensitive message and is not suitable for young children. Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on February 2, 2025, at 9:30am. You can find us online at nwhills.com. Key Moments 00:00 Welcome 02:12 Message: Forming Our Desires According to God's Design 11:29 Flipping the Script 24:54 Our Vulnerability 36:23 Practical steps 40:06 Seeking Help and Support 47:38 Reflection and Prayer

Worship Director Justin Jackson continues our series on the Sermon on the Mount, as Jesus flips the script on how we think about anger. He challenges us to consider the question, what if God is not merely concerned with outward behavior, but with what is in our hearts? Jesus reveals that he has a much higher standard than simply not committing murder. Today, we'll explore what it means to be angry while still honoring our fellow image-bearers, and to follow God's commands not only in the letter of the law but in spirit. Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on January 26, 2025, at 9:30am. You can find us online at nwhills.com. Key Moments 00:00 Welcome 03:43 Message: Recognizing Our Sinfulness So We Can Love Sinners 05:07 Understanding Anger and Sin 27:30 Jesus' Call to Action: Reconciliation 31:45 Reflecting on Our Hearts

Lead Pastor Josh Carstensen continues our Sermon on the Mount series. What if everything you thought about rules, sacrifice, and righteousness was about to be radically redefined? In this part of His sermon, Jesus delivers a powerful and pivotal message - a moment of fulfillment, challenge, and transformation - turning 1,500 years of tradition into a call for something deeper, harder, and far more beautiful. It's a statement that surprised everyone when He said it and one that we still grapple with today. Jesus freed us from the Old Testament law and gave us something much harder. Are you ready to wrestle with what it means to truly follow Him? Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on January 19, 2025, at 9:30am. You can find us online at nwhills.com. Key Moments 00:00 Welcome 01:04 Message: Radically Redefining Rules 02:05 A Prayer for Our Nation 04:26 Reading Matthew 5:17-20 11:05 The Heart Behind the Laws 17:48 Jesus Fulfills the Law 27:35 The Importance of the Old Testament 31:39 Reflecting on Our Motivations

Lead Pastor Josh Carstensen continues our Sermon on the Mount series. Is it our mission to shape our nation's laws around Christian values? Or is Jesus calling us to something more radical? In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus paints a picture of salt and light—metaphors of influence, value, and transformation. But these aren't metaphors for political policy; they're calls to action rooted in personal integrity and love. Today, we'll unpack what it means to preserve worth, shine truth, and transform culture—not through legislation but through how we live, love, and honor others. Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on January 12, 2025, at 9:30am. You can find us online at nwhills.com. Key Moments 00:00 Welcome 01:08 Message: Understanding Salt and Light 05:11 Exploring the Concept of Salt and Light 10:09 Jesus' Teachings on Salt and Light 22:58 Practical Applications of Being Salt and Light

Pastor Ron King leads us in a message of celebration of God's global mission, and invites all of us to join in what he is doing in the world.   We'll also get to hear from some of our ministry partners as we celebrate how God is working through each of them in unique ways and locations. And finally, we'll hear from James Furlo from our Go Team, about practical ways that you can participate in the mission that God has for you. Jesus continues to send us out today because Christian mission brings healing and refreshment to all who draw near to him. He prepares us, the church, for when he will finally restore all things. The Good News means that every person from every tribe, language, and nation can have access to a global God. Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on January 5, 2025, at 9:30am. You can find us online at nwhills.com. Key Moments 00:00 Welcome 01:03 Message: Celebrating God's Global Mission 04:50 Biblical Foundation for Mission 17:14 Meet Our Ministry Partners 21:58 Practical Ways to Get Involved

Every decision you make—every moment with downtime, every plan for success—hinges on one question: Who reigns in your life? This week, Associate Pastor Ron King explores a profound reality: God is always on the throne. From Nebuchadnezzar's dream to Jesus' teachings, His kingdom is eternal, holy, rich, and present in every moment. Discover why releasing control and living under His reign isn't just freeing—it transforms everything. Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on December 29, 2024, at 11:00am. You can find us online at nwhills.com. Key Moments 00:00 Welcome 00:51 Message: Who Reigns in Your Life? 10:12 The Vision of King Nebuchadnezzar 13:50 The Eternal Kingdom of God 25:27 The Richness of God's Kingdom 33:21 Reflection

Youth Pastor Gary Jones continues a Christmas series. What if this Christmas, you rediscovered the joy that changes everything? Not just fleeting happiness, but great joy—a joy born in the most ordinary places, for ordinary people, like shepherds and like us. This joy isn't just a feeling; it's a response to the greatest news the world has ever heard: God came to us, broke through the mundane, and offered hope, peace, and purpose. Today, Pastor Gary will talk about embracing that great joy, responding to it, and sharing it boldly. Are you ready to experience the deeper, more durable joy of Christmas? Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on December 22, 2024, at 9:30am. You can find us online at nwhills.com. Key Moments 00:00 Welcome 01:00 Message: Rediscovering the Great Joy of Christmas 03:10 Biblical Story of Joy: Luke 2 07:23 The Deeper Meaning of Christmas Joy 13:22 The Shepherds' Response 21:38 The Call to Share Joy

Lead Pastor Josh Carstensen continues our Christmas series in Matthew chapter 2. We all have a backstory. Even villains have backstories that we can sympathize with. So how do we know what's good and what's bad? The Christmas story is full of characters with their own backstories. When we look at the stories of Herod and the wise men, what can we learn from the choices that they made when it comes to Jesus? Through reading their stories, one thing becomes clear: we are all sinners in need of forgiveness. Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on December 15, 2024, at 9:30am. You can find us online at nwhills.com. Key Moments 00:00 Welcome 00:45 Message: Understanding Herod and the Wise Men 04:24 Herod's Troubled Reign 15:01 The Wise Men and Their Journey 17:31 The Encounter with Jesus 21:19 The Prophecy of Daniel 28:15 Herod's Response to Jesus 31:02 Our Need for Forgiveness

Lead Pastor Josh Carstensen continues a Christmas series. The Christmas story is familiar, but we'll start by reviewing the facts of the story. Through this experience, Mary and Joseph faced incredible challenges—traveling miles, living in uncertainty, and trusting God in the unknown. They held onto faith in His promise: that Jesus would save the world. Christmas calls us to do three things: Hold onto God's promises. Nothing is impossible with Him. Step into the story. Where is God calling you to engage? Embrace joy. God's heart is joyful, and He invites us into it. Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on December 8, 2024, at 9:30am. You can find us online at nwhills.com. Key Moments 00:00 Welcome 01:09 Message: Faith Through the Christmas Story 11:12 Reflections on God's Plan 29:42 Closing Prayer and Reflections

Worship Director Justin Jackson starts a Christmas series. Christmas isn't really about us - yet, somehow, it is. It's about God, who made it about us through Jesus. The story of Christmas is a daring rescue mission: God so loved the world that He sent His Son to save us, bringing hope, life, and a mission filled with eternal meaning. Let's learn about three incredible gifts Jesus brought us and the hope they offer us today. Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on December 1, 2024, at 9:30am. You can find us online at nwhills.com. Key Moments 00:00 Welcome 00:52 Message: Rediscovering the True Meaning of Christmas 07:26 The True Meaning of Christmas 10:12 The Gift of Hope 19:24 The Gift of New Life 26:07 The Gift of Kingdom Purpose 29:56 Conclusion and Reflection

Youth Pastor Gary Jones continues a series on the Sermon on the Mount. In the last Beatitude (Matthew 5:10-12), Jesus teaches us to rejoice when persecuted for righteousness' sake. It's a surprising call, but it comes with an incredible promise: the kingdom of heaven. Today, we'll explore how to embrace suffering, welcome it as part of our faith journey, and respond not with bitterness but with joy and steadfastness. Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on November 24, 2024, at 9:30am. You can find us online at nwhills.com. Key Moments 00:00 Welcome 00:49 Message: Finding Joy in Persecution 03:38 Reading and Reflecting on the Beatitudes 11:14 The Reality of Persecution Today 19:55 Responding to Persecution 27:57 Invitation to Faith and Reflection

Lead Pastor Josh Carstensen continues our series on the Sermon on the Mount. Living in peace is truly something we all long for. But in this teaching, Jesus challenges our idea of what that looks like: Blessed are the Peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. While we long for peace, our ideas of living peacefully often still fall short of what Jesus calls us to. Because Jesus entered into a world full of conflict, he has flipped the script on peace not being merely an avoidance of conflict, but something active. What does it mean to actually make peace in our world? Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on November 17, 2024, at 8:00am. You can find us online at nwhills.com. Key Moments 00:00 Welcome 01:43 Message: Blessed Are The Peacemakers 15:05 Understanding Peacemaking 25:38 The Call to Be Peacemakers 30:23 Reflection and Application

Lead Pastor Josh Carstensen continues a series on the Sermon on the Mount. A profound longing echoes throughout Scripture—the desire to see God. But what does it mean to truly see Him? To answer this, we begin not in Matthew, but in Exodus, where God's relationship with His people unfolds through moments of faith, failure, and redemption. At one point, Moses asks to see God, but God says he can't see His face and live. But Jesus says something different, "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God." Let's find out how these two seemingly contradictory statements are both true. Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on November 10, 2024, at 9:30am. You can find us online at nwhills.com. Key Moments 00:00 Welcome 00:58 Message: The Pure in Heart 03:29 Historical Context: From Abraham to Exodus 10:58 The Golden Calf Incident 19:05 The Paradox of Seeing God 22:33 Understanding a Pure Heart 33:20 Reflecting on Our Hearts

Worship Director Justin Jackson continues a series on the Sermon on the Mount. Have you ever been caught doing something wrong? We want to be shown mercy, but, at the same time, we often crave justice for others... to the point that it can become vengeance! But Jesus flips the script by declaring: "Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy." (Matthew 5:7) Jesus challenges us not just to show mercy but to be merciful. It's a call to forgive, to act with compassion, and to reflect the mercy God showed us through the cross. This kind of mercy can break cycles of bitterness and reveal a better way to live—one that brings Heaven to earth. What might it look like in your life to show mercy to someone who doesn't deserve it? Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on November 3, 2024, at 9:30am. You can find us online at nwhills.com. Key Moments 00:00 Welcome 01:07 Message: Blessed Are the Merciful 06:07 Humanity's Problem with Sin and Justice 08:13 Jesus' Teachings: Flipping the Script 10:25 The Beatitude of Mercy 22:46 The Cross: The Source of Mercy 28:30 Living a Life Full of Mercy

Lead Pastor Josh Carstensen continues a series on the Sermon on the Mount. Jesus makes a statement about obsession. He says, "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied" (Matthew 5:6). Jesus doesn't say blessed are those who have righteousness. The blessing is in the longing, in the obsession. That feels backward. At the crux of Jesus' statement is the word righteousness. Let's find out how that will bring us satisfaction. But first, we'll start with a testimony from two of our long-term missionary partners in Uganda and how they're seeingpeople hunger and thirst for righteousness. Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on October 27, 2024, at 9:30am. You can find us online at nwhills.com. Key Moments 00:00 Welcome 00:44 Testimony: Val & Waffle 06:07 Message: Hungering for Righteousness 12:38 Jesus' Teaching on Obsession 19:22 The Obsession with Being Right with God 27:37 The Call to Bring Rightness to the World 37:52 Reflecting on Our Search for Satisfaction

Lead Pastor Josh Carstensen continues a series on the Sermon on the Mount. Power, strength, dominance - this is how we expect a king to rule. But Jesus flips the script when he says, "Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth." In a world ruled by force, Jesus points us to gentleness and humility as the true path to victory because we already know the ultimate outcome. Let's explore how meekness - far from weakness - is the way to real strength, freedom, and peace. Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on October 20, 2024, at 9:30am. You can find us online at nwhills.com. Key Moments 00:00 Welcome 00:54 Message: Discovering True Power through Meekness 04:45 Historical Context of Israel's Longing for a King 16:32 The Arrival of Jesus and His Radical Kingdom 21:03 Understanding Meekness 27:41 Trusting in Divine Justice

Associate Pastor Ron King continues a series on the Sermon on the Mount. Jesus reminds us that true discipleship isn't just about following rules but facing our brokenness and relying on God's grace. Jesus said, "Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted" (Matthew 5:4). Mourning isn't easy—it's about confronting pain, loss, and even our own sin. But through it, Jesus promises comfort, reminding us that even in our deepest sorrow, God is with us, leading us toward healing. Right before the message, we have someone's testimony about mourning. Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on October 13, 2024, at 9:30am. You can find us online at nwhills.com. Key Moments 00:00 Welcome 00:58 Testimony About Mourning 05:39 Message: Finding Comfort in Mourning 09:29 The Beatitudes: Blessed Are Those Who Mourn 21:24 Jesus' Example of Mourning 25:51 Comfort in Mourning 32:49 Reflection and Prayer

Lead Pastor Josh Carstensen continues a series on the Sermon on the Mount. Jesus starts the Sermon on the Mount by saying, "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." In this seemingly simple statement, Jesus challenges us to rethink what it means to be blessed. It's not just about feeling blessed with our abundance or when we receive help. There's a third type of blessing that's extremely counter to today's culture, which Josh shares. Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on October 6, 2024, at 9:30am. You can find us online at nwhills.com. Key Moments 00:00 Welcome 00:46 Message: Understanding Spiritual Poverty 07:23 The Concept of Being Blessed 11:23 Jesus' Teachings on Poverty and Repentance 17:19 The Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector 21:31 Living as Recipients of God's Kingdom 23:55 Conclusion and Reflection Time

Lead Pastor Josh Carstensen kicks off a series on the Sermon on the Mount. In this first part of the Beatitudes, we explore how Jesus introduces a radically different way of life, calling us to "repent"—to change our thinking. Against a backdrop of foreign occupation and religious oppression, Jesus' message challenges his listeners' instincts and the status quo. In today's political and religious climate, ask yourself if you believe His authority, and if so, what is God inviting you to repent of? Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on September 29, 2024, at 10:15am. You can find us online at nwhills.com. Key Moments 00:00 Welcome 00:54 Message: A New Way of Thinking 05:37 Understanding Jesus' First Words 09:40 The Kingdom of Heaven Explained 14:57 Life Under Roman Rule 19:55 Jesus' Radical Teachings on Persecution 25:30 Political and Religious Parallels to Modern Times 29:54 The Call to Change Our Thinking

Worship Director Justin Jackson concludes a vision series where we explore the question, "What is a Christian?" In John 15, Jesus teaches us that abiding in Him, bearing good fruit, and genuinely loving others is the defining mark of a true follower. We can't just claim faith; our actions, or "fruits," must reflect our beliefs. And the best action we can take is to love others by putting them first. Ultimately, being a Christian is about making Jesus our home, living with love, and serving others daily. Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on September 23, 2024, at 10:15am. You can find us online at nwhills.com. Key Moments 00:00 Welcome 00:51 Abiding in Christ: What It Means to Truly Follow Jesus 04:20 Characteristics of a Christian Life 13:08 The Importance of Bearing Fruit 19:45 Genuine Love for Others 26:24 Is Jesus Christ Your Home?

Lead Pastor Josh Carstensen continues a vision series where we explore the question, "What is a Christian?" Being a disciple means sacrifice, not just in words, but in how we live. Jesus invites us to embrace that identity fully, but it requires something deeper than just attending church. In Luke 14, He calls us to count the cost—to give up everything, including our own desires, and follow Him daily. Are you truly willing to let go of what holds you back and give everything to Jesus? Today, we have the chance to start fresh, but the question remains: Are you all in? Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on September 15, 2024, at 10:15am. You can find us online at nwhills.com. Key Moments 00:00 Welcome 01:00 Counting the Cost: What Does It Mean to Be a True Christian? 05:29 Cultural Stereotypes of Christians 07:00 Jesus' Definition of a Disciple 13:54 Understanding the Cross and Self-Denial 20:26 The Hebrew Education System 25:03 The True Cost of Discipleship 31:26 The Worth of Sacrifice

Lead Pastor Josh Carstensen starts a new vision series. We often hear the word "Christian," but what does it truly mean? Like many words, it carries different connotations, often shaped by culture, history, or misconceptions. The world may have redefined this term, but what did Jesus say? To be a Christian starts with one profound truth: loving Him more than anything else. Let's explore what that looks like. Also, to conclude our "Something To Say!" series, we'll start the message with a montage of all the testimonies from the previous year. We hope you find it encouraging. Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on September 8, 2024, at 10:15am. You can find us online at nwhills.com. Key Moments 00:00 Welcome 00:54 Something to Say: Testimonies from the Community 05:53 Message: Defining Christianity 13:01 Exploring the Meaning of Words 18:11 Jesus' Teachings on Discipleship 21:52 Jesus' Bold Message in Matthew 10 25:19 The Challenge of Faith in Family Dynamics 30:22 Loving God Above All Else 34:55 A Story of Unconditional Love and Acceptance

Lead Pastor Josh Carstensen concludes a series on the writings of Peter. In Peter's writings, we see a man who experienced intense persecution but remained steadfast. Peter's message is clear: despite trials and tensions—from outside and within the church—our hope is not rooted in this world. Peter urges us to stand firm in God's true grace and to keep growing in our faith. Also, as part of the "Something To Say!" series, we'll start the message with someone's testimony. We hope you find it encouraging. Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on September 1, 2024, at 10:15am. You can find us online at nwhills.com. Key Moments 00:00 Welcome 00:57 Something to Say: A Journey of Faith 04:05 Message: Concluding the Series on Peter 15:19 Recognizing Unsung Heroes in the Church 20:25 Praising a Faithful God 24:31 Challenges in Understanding Scripture 34:06 A Story of Perseverance and Faith

Pastoral Intern Michael Allen continues a series on the writings of Peter. Peter reminds believers—amid scoffers—to remember God's patience and promise of a new creation in which He will end evil forever and make all things new! While we wait for Christ's return, our call is to follow Jesus, encourage others, and hold onto the hope of a new heaven and earth where righteousness dwells. Also, as part of the "Something To Say!" series, we'll start the message with someone's testimony. We hope you find it encouraging. Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on August 25, 2024, at 10:15am. You can find us online at nwhills.com. Key Moments 00:00 Welcome 00:51 Something To Say: Finding Faith and Facing Challenges 05:30 Message: Trusting God's Promises 09:16 Reading from 2 Peter 3: God's Promises 22:20 The Gift of Righteousness 23:30 Preaching the Gospel to Ourselves and a New Heaven and Earth 36:51 Practical Steps to Follow Jesus

Lead Pastor Josh Carstensen continues a series on the writings of Peter. 2 Peter 2 has been called a "dark corner" of the New Testament. Knowing his time was short, Peter boldly warns us against false prophets and the consequences of denying Christ. His main concern isn't outside culture, but within the church and our own hearts. This is a call to examine our hearts, question our influences, and rediscover the true power of Christ in our lives. Also, as part of the "Something To Say!" series, we'll start the message with someone's testimony. We hope you find it encouraging. Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on August 18, 2024, at 10:15am. You can find us online at nwhills.com. Key Moments 00:00 Welcome 00:56 Something To Say: Struggles and Spiritual Restoration 05:57 Message: Warning Against False Prophets 11:58 Warnings from Peter: False Teachers 22:19 Peter's Frustration with False Teachers 29:54 The Importance of Internal Church Integrity 36:21 Living Like Jesus in Relationships

Guest speaker Caleb Hunt continues a series on the writings of Peter. Have you ever been confidently wrong about something? That was Peter when he met Jesus: running in the wrong direction with full confidence. But in Peter's second letter - which he writes while in prison - he's no longer a brash hothead but a reliable authority. So, in this letter, he addresses threats from within the church and reminds everyone how following God should change the way they live, like how Peter was changed. Also, as part of the "Something To Say!" series, we'll start the message with someone's testimony. We hope you find it encouraging. Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on August 11, 2024, at 10:15am. You can find us online at nwhills.com. Key Moments 00:00 Welcome 00:56 Something To Say 05:58 Message: Transformed by Faith 09:24 Peter's Transformation and Authority 13:47 False Teachings and Peter's Response 21:02 Peter's Witness of the Resurrection 29:22 The Call to Surrender and Participate in Divine Nature 33:44 Practical Steps to Live Out Faith

Lead Pastor Josh Carstensen returns from Sabbatical to close our study on the book of 1 Peter. In 1 Peter chapter 5, Peter calls all of us to be humble leaders and followers.  Pastor Josh points us to the truth of God's love and sacrifice to us, and His call to follow in His footsteps as humble leaders and followers in our own relationships with one another. Also, as part of the "Something To Say!" series, we'll start the message with someone's testimony. We hope you find it encouraging.

Assocaite Pastor Ron King continues a series on the writings of Peter. Peter wants our perspective to change - to have the same perspective as Jesus. As Christians, there will be suffering, but there's hope through the suffering because we're living under the mission of God. To help us change our perspective and live for God right now, Peter gives us three tools in Chapter 4 of 1 Peter. Also, as part of the "Something To Say!" series, we'll start the message with someone's testimony. We hope you find it encouraging. Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on July 28, 2024, at 10:15am. You can find us online at nwhills.com. Key Moments 00:00 Welcome 00:50 Something To Say 06:03 Message: Gaining a Christ-Like Perspective: Tools from 1 Peter 4 17:02 The First Tool: Change Your Perspective 25:31 The Second Tool: Understand Time Differently 33:02 The Third Tool: Embrace God's Judgment

Worship Director Justin Jackson continues a series on the writings of Peter. Peter continues his instructions on growth and submission, extending it to husbands and wives. This passage can be "difficult" in today's culture, but Justin does a fantastic job showing us that Peter is talking about our hearts and how it ties all the way back to the fall in Genesis. The question we want to ask as husbands and wives is: Am I for my spouse? And if you're single, don't worry; it's also relevant to you - especially the second half of the message. Also, as part of the "Something To Say!" series, we'll start the message with someone's testimony. We hope you find it encouraging. Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on July 21, 2024, at 10:15am. You can find us online at nwhills.com. Key Moments 00:00 Welcome 00:56 Something To Say 05:51 Message: Understanding Unity and Courage Through 1 Peter

Worship Director Justin Jackson continues a series on the writings of Peter. As Christians, we are a chosen group, a royal priesthood, and a holy nation. And now that we are God's people, we have received mercy. Think about that - we've received mercy. God did this so that He receives glory, and we proclaim the name of Jesus. In today's message, Peter instructs us on how we proclaim Jesus and make Him known: by living a life characterized by growth and submission. Also, as part of the "Something To Say!" series, we'll start the message with someone's testimony. We hope you find it encouraging. Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on July 14, 2024, at 10:15am. You can find us online at nwhills.com. Timestamps 00:00 Welcome 00:56 Something To Say: A Journey of Faith 06:05 Message: Highlights and Reflections 08:09 Understanding Peter's Message: Living Hope and Inheritance 13:53 Living a Life of Growth and Submission 24:59 Spiritual Growth and Glorifying God 30:20 Submission to Authority for the Lord's Sake 34:10 Responding to Injustice with Christlike Submission 42:29 Final Reflections and Prayer

Youth Pastor Gary Jones starts a new series on the writings of Peter. Peter was profoundly changed by Jesus, and as a result, Peter had something to say, which was recorded and preserved for us. Over the next few weeks, we'll dive into what Peter had to say, starting with 1 Peter, chapter 1, where we're encouraged to have hope in a world full of suffering and trials because we have new life in a living Jesus. Also, as part of the "Something To Say!" series, we'll start the message with someone's testimony. We hope you find it encouraging. Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on July 7, 2024, at 10:15am. You can find us online at nwhills.com. Timestamps 00:00 Welcome 00:50 Something To Say: A Journey of Faith 05:28 Message: Finding Hope in Times of Trials 08:34 Exploring First Peter: Hope in Suffering 14:20 Living with Hope: Practical Applications 33:06 Final Thoughts and Prayer

Associate Pastor Ron Kings concludes a series on the life of Peter. God acts beyond our expectations in this final adventure of faith amid trials and tribulations. Despite King Herod's violent attempts to suppress the early church, the power of grace and God's word continued to spread and multiply. Given these experiences, we should ask ourselves why we're so often surprised by God and what we can discover about God when He acts in ways we don't foresee. Also, as part of the "Something To Say!" series, we'll start the message with someone's testimony. We hope you find it encouraging. Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on June 30, 2024, at 10:15am. You can find us online at nwhills.com. Timestamps 00:00 Welcome 00:54 Something To Say: Nick's Testimony 05:53 Message: God's Unexpected Works 08:09 Reading and Reflecting on Acts Chapter 12 17:52 The Story of Herod and God's Power 24:15 Lessons from the Early Church 32:36 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Lead Pastor Josh Carstensen continues a series on the life of Peter. The early church experiences division for the first time, and we see Peter's response. Through this example, we can ask ourselves, "Am I someone who brings unity to the church, or am I someone who brings division?" Also, as part of the "Something To Say!" series, we'll start the message with someone's testimony. We hope you find it encouraging. Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on June 23, 2024, at 10:15am. You can find us online at nwhills.com. Timestamps 00:00 Welcome 00:39 Something To Say: A Journey of Faith 04:05 Message: Overcoming Division 08:13 The Challenge of Unity in the Church 15:18 The Longings of the Human Heart 21:54 Peter's Vision and Its Impact 27:17 Paul's Letters Addressing Division 34:16 The Importance of Unity in the Church

Lead Pastor Josh Carstensen continues a series on the life of Peter and how the early church spread in a context so adamantly against Jesus. One of the ways is through our actions. When we love people the way Jesus loves people, it's a beautiful testimony that attracts people to want to know more about Jesus. But when we don't act like Jesus, it puts a stain on Christianity and kills our testimony. Today, we will look at both a good and a bad example of living like Jesus. Also, twenty-two people were baptized last Sunday. And so, as part of our "Something To Say!" series, we'll start the message with four people sharing their testimonies and why they were baptized. We hope you find them encouraging. Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on June 16, 2024, at 9:30am. You can find us online at nwhills.com. Timestamps 00:00 Welcome 01:03 Something To Say: Celebrating Baptisms 06:53 Message: How Early Christianity Spread 09:17 Generosity in the Early Church 18:25 The Example of Barnabas 22:37 Ananias and Sapphira: A Cautionary Tale 33:32 The Role of Fear in Following God

Lead Pastor Josh Carstensen continues a series on the life of Peter. Peter heals a lame beggar, and it causes two very different reactions. Some people are astonished, repent, and believe, while others threaten Peter to stop. So, how does the healing happen? Why does it happen? Why do some believe, but others don't? And what happens to those who do accept Christ? Josh answers each of those questions. Also, as part of the "Something To Say!" series, we'll start the message with some of our interns sharing what God did in their lives while at Northwest Hills. We hope you find them encouraging. Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on June 9, 2024, at 9:30am. You can find us online at nwhills.com. Timestamps 00:00 Welcome 00:59 Something To Say: Interns Share Their Stories 07:09 A Message to Graduates 08:33 Message: Peter Heals a Lame Beggar 14:38 Reflections on the Healing and Its Implications 18:47 Understanding the Power of the Holy Spirit 23:06 The Prodigal Son: A Tale of Two Stories 27:25 The Challenge of Belief and Authority 33:05 The Boldness of New Believers

Lead Pastor Josh Carstensen continues a series on the life of Peter. Have you ever wondered how Christianity got started in such a hostile culture to its message? When Christianity began, people hated it so much that they killed the one leading the charge. And not only was Jesus killed, but so were all but one of His closest followers. If that doesn't scream hostility towards your religion - what does? Yet, Christianity didn't die. Instead, it spread like wildfire amid opposition and hostility. How did this happen? Let's learn how Peter and others shared the message of Jesus and how it caught on. Also, as part of the "Something To Say!" series, we'll start the message with someone's testimony. We hope you find it encouraging. Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on June 2, 2024, at 9:30am. You can find us online at nwhills.com. Timestamps 00:00 Welcome 01:08 Something To Say: Embracing God's Plan 05:22 Message: The Spread of Christianity 11:17 The Disciples' Struggle and Jesus' Response 20:39 Challenges in Spreading the Message of Jesus 27:16 Peter's First Sermon: Explaining the Unexplainable 34:35 Finding Fulfillment in Jesus

Associate Pastor Ron King continues a series on the life of Peter. Last week, Peter denied Jesus three times. Now Jesus has risen from the dead, but something is still off between him and Peter. So, Jesus meets with Peter and restores their relationship. It's a short but powerful moment that shows us God's heart. For all of us who have ever felt like waking away or failed to follow Jesus faithfully - in big or small ways - and wondered if Jesus can still use us, this interaction should give you a heartful yes. Also, as part of the "Something To Say!" series, we'll start the message with three testimonies from our global outreach team. We hope you find it encouraging. Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on May 26, 2024, at 9:30am. You can find us online at nwhills.com. Timestamps 00:00 Welcome 00:47 Something To Say: Global Outreach 05:54 Message: Exploring Peter's Journey 10:01 The Power of Restoration: John 21:1-19 19:33 The Process of Restoration: Lessons from Peter's Story 34:05 Embracing Restoration and Following Jesus