Radiant Church

From Caesarea Philippi to Capernaum, to the shores of Caesarea Maritima, our journey now leads us to the moment when Jesus enters Jerusalem as King—yet is rejected by the very people waiting for the Messiah. In today's teaching, we explore Jesus' prophetic actions, His parables, His heartfelt lament over Jerusalem, and the powerful parallels between Ezekiel's vision and the events leading up to the cross. Standing on the Mount of Olives, we're reminded of both the sorrow of rejection and the hope of His promised return. He entered once in victory, left in grief…and one day He will come again. The question we're left with is simple but weighty: When He returns, how will He find us?

In this week's message, we stop in the coastal city of Caesarea—a place known for Roman power, breathtaking architecture, and, surprisingly, one of the most important turning points in the early church. Here in Acts 10, God brings together Cornelius, a Roman centurion searching for truth, and Peter, an apostle wrestling with a new vision from God. What unfolds is the moment the church realizes the gospel is not limited to one people or one culture, but is truly for everyone. God breaks down barriers, confronts old assumptions, and pours out His Spirit on those no one expected. This message reminds us that God is still reconciling hearts, still welcoming outsiders in, and still speaking to people who are seeking Him. If you sense Him drawing you today, this might be your own Caesarea moment—a chance to believe, to trust, and to take a step toward Him. If this encourages you, we'd love for you to like, comment, and subscribe. And if you need prayer or want to talk about baptism, we're here to walk with you.

In this week's message, we follow Jesus to Capernaum—the center of His ministry along the Sea of Galilee. Here, prophecy was fulfilled, disciples were called, demons fled, and lives were transformed. Pastor Jason walks through Mark 1 to show how Jesus' message (“The Kingdom of God is near”), His call (“Repent and believe”), and His invitation (“Follow Me”) still shape our lives today. Standing in the very synagogue where Jesus taught, we're reminded that His authority, His compassion, and His power are not ancient stories—they are present reality. Whether you're exploring faith or longing to grow as a disciple, this message will challenge you to leave complacency behind and rediscover the awe of following the Messiah.

At the foot of Mount Hermon, in a place filled with idols and darkness, Jesus asked one of the most important questions in history: “Who do you say I am?” In this message, we walk through the powerful moment when Jesus revealed His true identity — not in the safety of the temple, but in the heart of enemy territory. Discover how His words, “On this rock I will build My Church, and the gates of hell will not overcome it,” still declare victory today. No matter what darkness surrounds you, remember: the One who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.

It's possible to be deeply religious and still completely miss Jesus. Saul of Tarsus knew the Scriptures, kept the rules, and thought he was defending God — until an encounter with Jesus changed everything. In this message, Pastor Bob challenges us to move beyond rule-keeping and appearances to discover what real faith looks like — a faith that's Spirit-led, grace-filled, and free from the constraints of empty religion. We'll explore why God despises “religion” without heart transformation, how judgment and favoritism creep into our faith, and what it truly means to be a church that reflects Jesus rather than just playing church.

What happens when a church stops chasing personal preferences and starts pursuing the only agenda that matters — Jesus? In this practical and challenging message, Maddie Hoeness shares a story from buying her first home and discovering how conflicting expectations can create tension. The same thing happens in church when comfort, control, and personal opinion overshadow Christ's mission. Looking at Acts 2:42–47, we see that the early church wasn't powerful because of polished programs or perfect systems, but because they were devoted — to Scripture, prayer, communion, generosity, and one another. Their unity made the gospel visible, their love made it credible, and God responded by multiplying their impact. When Jesus becomes the center, the church doesn't just survive — it moves, grows, and influences the world around it. We're called to lay down our agendas, pick up the cross, and pursue Him together. If this message encouraged you, let us know in the comments, share it with a friend, and subscribe for more sermons and discipleship resources. #RadiantChurch #Acts2Church #UnityInChrist #JesusFirst #LiveCrucified #ChurchUnity #HolySpiritMovement #DevotionNotConvenience #Discipleship #HopeGraceLove

What if the Church wasn't afraid? Imagine a church that still believes in miracles. That still tells the truth. That still reaches out — even when it's costly. In this message, Pastor Jason unpacks what it really means to be an outward church — one that doesn't just invite people in, but boldly goes out into the world with conviction and compassion. We'll walk through John 9 — the story of a man who went from blindness to boldness — and discover what it means to live as the “sent” people of God. Because being outward doesn't mean being flashy — it means being faithful. It's not about attraction — it's about action. It's not about being relevant — it's about being resilient. Let's recover our burden for the lost, reclaim our courage, and become the kind of church the world desperately needs — one that shines light in the darkness. If this message encourages you, don't forget to: ✅ LIKE this video ✅ SUBSCRIBE for more sermons and resources ✅ SHARE it with someone who needs a reminder that they're sent by God #OutwardChurch #ResilientFaith #RadiantChurch #JasonShanks #John9 #FaithInAction #ChurchOnMission #Gospel #Christianity #JesusSaves #LightInTheDarkness #BeTheChurch #FaithOverFear

What does a merciful church really look like? This week, we're kicking off a new series with a message that reminds us: God's mercy isn't based on what we deserve—it's based on who He is. From the garden of Eden to the cross, we see a God whose hesed—His loyal, steadfast love—never runs out. And as His people, we're called to reflect that same mercy in how we live, love, and forgive. Mercy heals. Enabling hurts. One restores, the other destroys. So how do we become a church that embodies mercy in real, tangible ways? Let's find out together. Join us for “Imagine: A Merciful Church.”

Heaven is not just a place. It is a wedding. In this episode, “Revelation 21: The Wedding at the End of the World,” we explore one of the most beloved chapters in the Bible and discover that it is not only about streets of gold and every tear being wiped away – it is about a Bridegroom, a Bride, and a wedding that all of history has been moving toward. We walk through the ancient Jewish wedding pattern – proposal, betrothal, procession, ceremony, and feast – and show how each stage mirrors the gospel story: Eden as the first wedding and Sinai as God's proposal The Cross as the bridal price where Jesus gives His life for His Bride The Holy Spirit as the shoshbin and kallah teacher, preparing us while we wait The New Jerusalem descending as a radiant Bride, and God dwelling with His people forever Along the way we look at: Why the Judge of Revelation 20 is revealed as the Bridegroom in Revelation 21 What it means that God will make “all things new” How the “Bride of Christ” imagery shapes our hope, our holiness, and our mission How to live engaged, faithful, hopeful, and radiant while we wait for the Groom If you have ever thought the gospel was just about “going to heaven someday,” this episode invites you to see that salvation is not just relocation but reunion – a covenant relationship restored. Key passages: Revelation 19–22, John 14, Ephesians 5, Romans 7, Romans 11 Subscribe for more Bible teaching and “Escaping Babylon” content, and share this with someone who needs fresh hope. “The Spirit and the Bride say, ‘Come.'” (Revelation 22:17)

Step into the caves of Qumran and the pages of Revelation 20. From the discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls to the vision of the Great White Throne, this episode traces God's covenant story—from Eden to Sinai, from the Cross to the New Creation. Discover why judgment isn't meant to terrify but to testify—when the Judge becomes the Bridegroom and the courtroom turns into the wedding feast of the Lamb. Key Texts: Revelation 20–21 | Matthew 25 | John 14 | 1 Corinthians 15 Themes: Final Judgment • Covenant • Jewish Wedding • Hope • New Creation Subscribe for weekly deep-dive episodes exploring prophecy, covenant, and the end-time hope found in Christ. #Revelation #EndTimes #GreatWhiteThrone #BibleProphecy #DeadSeaScrolls #NewCreation #Gospel #Eschatology #Faith #Hope #Jesus

Ever feel like you've run out of steam in your faith? In this week's message, “The Resilient Life: Keep the Finish Line in Sight,” we learn from a tough-minded coach, the words of Paul, and the example of Jesus about how to run with perseverance—and finish well. Discover why resilience isn't just about bouncing back, but about staying faithful to the very end. Don't miss this encouraging and challenging word that will help you keep your eyes on the eternal prize.

Are you feeling the weight of a world that's often hostile to your faith? You're not alone. In “A Resilient Faith,” we look at 1 Peter 2 and discover how to stay rooted in Christ — even when the world presses in. Peter's timeless words remind us to protect our witness, remember who we are, build on Christ the cornerstone, live as citizens of God's Kingdom, and follow the example of Jesus Himself. This is faith that stands firm, shines bright, and loves radically in a hostile world.

What does it take to raise resilient kids in today's world? Parenting isn't just about rules and routines—it's discipleship. Just like shining shoes with an old rag and a tin of polish, building resilience in children takes time, repetition, correction, and a whole lot of grace. In this message, Pastor Jason shares lessons from his own parenting journey (mistakes included!) and biblical wisdom on how to help kids bounce back when life gets hard. From letting them fail, to teaching them honor, to releasing them well—this sermon is both practical and deeply encouraging for parents, grandparents, and mentors who long to see the next generation thrive in Christ.

Marriage isn't easy—and sometimes it takes more than our own strength to keep going. In this week's message, Resilient Home: Resilient Marriage, we're diving into what it means to build a marriage that can withstand challenges, lean on God's strength, and grow deeper together.

Life is full of challenges, setbacks, and moments when giving up feels easier than pressing on. But God has already given us everything we need to live with resilience. In this message, we'll discover what true resilience looks like—not just bouncing back, but leaning on Jesus as our source of strength, so we can endure, inspire others, and leave a legacy of hope. Whether you're walking through hardship, carrying family struggles, or just feeling weary, this message is a reminder: you are not crushed, not abandoned, not destroyed. In Christ, resilience is already yours—let's learn how to walk in it together. #ResilientFaith #NeverGiveUp #StrengthInChrist #FaithOverFear #HopeInJesus

What does it really mean to make disciples? This week in the conclusion of our Dashboard Indicators series, we're talking about multiplication—the heartbeat of Jesus' call in the Great Commission. From the bold faith of Richard Wurmbrand in Romania, to the everyday opportunities in our homes, workplaces, and neighborhoods, we're reminded that disciple-making isn't just for a few “special” Christians—it's for all of us. In this message, Pastor Maddie unpacks Matthew 28 and Acts 1:8, showing how making disciples is central to everything we do. You'll be encouraged to pursue your normal life with gospel intentionality and to practice radical hospitality that opens the door for others to encounter Jesus. Whether you're an introvert or extrovert, brand new to faith or have walked with Jesus for years, God has uniquely placed you where you are to be His witness. Let's discover together how we can multiply disciples and shine His light in a world that desperately needs Him.

When you hear “giving,” do you immediately think, Here comes the money talk? You're not alone. Too many churches have misused money or turned giving into a transaction. But biblical generosity is not about what the church wants from you — it's about what God wants for you. In this message from the Dashboard Indicators series, Pastor Jason unpacks what it really means to live generously: Why generosity is bigger than money — it's about trust, stewardship, and worship. How the principle of “first fruits” runs throughout Scripture, from Genesis to Jesus. Why God's own generosity in giving His Son is the foundation of all Christian giving. How returning the tithe teaches us — and our children — to trust in God's provision. Why “you don't give to get — you give because God already gave.” Generosity isn't about loss. It's about freedom. And it changes everything.

What drives your serving—obligation or love? This week in our Dashboard Indicators series, we looked at Serving as a vital sign of spiritual health. Just like the doctor checks your vitals, these indicators help us see where our hearts really are. Paul reminds us in Galatians 5:13–14 that true freedom isn't about indulging ourselves—it's about serving one another humbly in love. But serving can be tricky. Sometimes it looks good on the outside, but deep down it's fueled by pride, guilt, or a desire for recognition. That's why we have to check our hearts. When God's grace flows into us vertically, it changes how we love and serve horizontally. That's where serving shifts from heavy and joyless to light and life-giving. Let's learn together what it looks like to serve not out of guilt, but out of gratitude—for His glory, not our own.

We all expect growth in certain areas of life—our kids, careers, even our football teams—but what about our spiritual lives? In this week's message, Pastor Bob reminds us that spiritual maturity doesn't just happen by accident. It's intentional. It's about moving beyond simply knowing about Jesus to actually becoming like Him. We'll unpack the things that can hinder growth, the process God uses to help us mature, and why it matters for more than just us—it's about bearing fruit and making Jesus famous. If you've ever felt stuck, spiritually dry, or like you're just “going through the motions,” this message will challenge and encourage you to take your next step toward real transformation. Watch now and ask yourself: Are you choosing to grow? #SpiritualGrowth #FaithJourney #GrowInFaith #BecomingLikeJesus #ChristianLife #BibleTeaching #ChurchOnline #SermonSeries #MakeJesusFamous

This week Pastor J kicked off our new series Dashboard Indicators with a message on connection. Just like a branch can't thrive when it's cut off from the tree, we can't thrive when we're disconnected from Jesus and His people. Faith isn't meant to be lived solo—it's meant to be lived together.

“To err is human, to forgive… divine.” We've all heard that one—but actually living it out? That's a whole different story. This week, we're diving into the power and freedom of forgiveness. Real forgiveness isn't about forgetting—it's about letting go of the hold someone or something has on your present. Holding onto hurt? That's like setting yourself on fire and hoping they get the smoke!

What does it look like to live a life worthy of Jesus? In this message from our Mixed Bag series, we turn to Titus 2—a chapter written to guide people of all ages and stages of life. Whether you're young or old, new to faith or a lifelong believer, this passage shows that how we live matters. Our character and conduct should reflect the grace we've received in Christ. This sermon offers a balanced challenge: avoid falling into legalism, but don't drift into laziness either. Instead, discover God's purpose for your life, love and encourage others, practice purity, and live with integrity in a way that draws people toward Christ.

Ever wonder what it really means to please God? In this week's message from our Mixed Bag series, we dive into Colossians 1—one of Paul's most powerful letters to a church that had lost its focus. We're talking about living a life that's actually worthy of the Lord… not based on performance, but grounded in grace. This sermon is for anyone who's ever felt like they weren't doing enough, being enough, or growing fast enough. Spoiler: God isn't looking for perfection—He's just looking for you. ❤️ Join us as we explore what it looks like to bear fruit, grow in knowledge, find strength, develop endurance, and live with deep, contagious joy. And maybe—just maybe—you'll finally believe that it's easier to please God than to please people. ▶️ Hit play, and let's walk in grace together. #Colossians1 #LiveWorthy #MixedBagSeries #RadiantChurch #GraceOverPerformance #JesusChangesEverything #FaithAndFruit #GospelReset #ChristInYou #HopeOfGlory #ChristianLiving

You might not have a golden statue in your living room, but idolatry is still very real—and way more common than we think. This week, we return to 1 John with one simple but powerful verse: “Dear children, keep yourselves from idols.” (1 John 5:21) Why would John end his whole letter like that? No long goodbye, just… watch out for idols. In this message, we'll unpack what idolatry actually looks like today—not in ancient temples, but in our hearts. Whether it's money, family, comfort, success, or even good things that quietly become ultimate things, idols pull us away from the only One who truly satisfies. If you're feeling the weight of misplaced trust or want to make sure nothing is competing with Jesus in your life—this one's for you.

We all hit those moments when life doesn't go the way we planned—when the road stretches longer than expected, the finish line feels farther away, and it would be easier to stop than keep going. In this message, we're looking at what it takes to keep running with faith, courage, and perseverance—even when the race gets hard. From Caleb's 45-year wait to a cross-country race in high school, we're drawing lessons on endurance, wholehearted commitment, and keeping our eyes on Jesus. If you're in a hard season, if you feel like giving up, or if you just need a reminder that it's not how you start but how you finish—this one's for you.

144,000 and Firstfruits: Revelation 14 Explained | E66 Could microchip implants be the mark of the beast? We kick off this episode by exploring the rise of under-the-skin technology that allows people to pay with just a wave of their hand—and the growing debate surrounding it. Is it just convenient tech, or a step toward biblical prophecy? Then we turn to Revelation 14 and take a deep dive into the mystery of the 144,000 sealed servants of God. Who are they? How did they go from Mount Zion to the very throne room of God? Along the way, we uncover: What it means to be redeemed from the earth The deep biblical significance of firstfruits The powerful truth behind substitutionary atonement From Exodus to Revelation, we trace how Jesus is our perfect sacrifice—the Lamb who took our place and paid the price we never could and how the OT consistently points to him.

What does it really mean to love God? In this message, we look at a clear and powerful answer from 1 John 5: “This is love for God: to keep His commands. And His commands are not burdensome.” It's simple—but not shallow. Before there was Occam's Razor or the “Keep It Simple” principle, God had already defined love in the most direct way: obedience rooted in trust. Not legalism. Not guilt. Just surrender to Jesus. Obedience doesn't come from pressure—it comes from knowing and loving the One who gave everything for us. And when Jesus is your foundation, obedience becomes a joy, not a burden. If you've been hurt by religion or weighed down by rules, this message offers hope. Whether you're seeking faith, rebuilding it, or guiding the next generation—this is for you. If this encouraged you, please like, share, and subscribe. And if you need help taking the next step in your faith, reach out—we'd love to walk with you. #LoveGod #KeepHisCommands #1John5 #ObedienceAndLove #ChristianLiving #FaithInJesus #HolySpiritHelp #NotABurden #GospelTruth

What really matters when this life ends? It's not what you packed in your garage or how full your calendar was — it's what you took with you that counts. In this powerful message from 1 John 4:7-21, we're reminded that God is love, and love perfected in us brings confidence—not fear—on the day of judgment. ✔ What does Christian maturity really look like? ✔ Can we have certainty about our eternal future? ✔ How do we live a life now that reflects the love of God and the reality of judgment later? We'll unpack the Apostle John's heartfelt message, explore our identity as children and friends of God, and confront the often-ignored truth: We're all on spiritual probation. But we can live with confidence, not condemnation, because of what Jesus has already accomplished. ✝️ Takeaway: You can take some things with you — namely, a confident heart, rooted in God's love and faithfulness.

Have you ever heard someone say, "God told me..." and immediately felt a little uneasy? Same here.

This week we're diving deep into 1 John 3 to explore the kind of love that goes far beyond good vibes and kind words. This isn't about loving tacos or hobbies—this is agape love. The kind of sacrificial, inconvenient, action-driven love modeled by Jesus. God's love has been the story from the very beginning—and now, we are called to carry it forward. But what does that actually look like in real life? How do we live this out in our neighborhoods, our churches, our families?

Ever been caught in a downpour? Not just a little spring rain—but one of those storms where the street turns into a river and you can't see a thing? That kind of overwhelming flood is actually a pretty great picture of how God lavishes His love on us. In 1 John 3:1-10, we're reminded that being called Children of God isn't just a label—it's a powerful truth. God's love is not cautious or reserved. It's a torrent. A deluge. This message explores what it means to live in that identity—with a focus on purity. Not just moral purity, but something deeper: wholeness. A life that isn't divided between Jesus and everything else. A sincere, single-hearted devotion that reflects who we really are in Him. If your faith feels like it's been on autopilot or you've been struggling with divided loyalties, you're not alone—and you're not stuck. Let this be a reminder (or a wake-up call) that Jesus is after your whole heart, not your performance. If this message encourages you, don't forget to like, subscribe, and share it with someone who needs to hear it. You can also follow us for more weekly content that helps you grow deeper in your walk with Jesus. #ChildrenOfGod #1John3 #SpiritualGrowth #FaithJourney #BiblicalTeaching #Wholeness #Purity #AuthenticFaith #RefinersFire #SincereDevotion #SundayMessage #ChristianLife

This week at Radiant, we're diving into one of the most misunderstood and often avoided topics in the Bible: The Antichrist and the End Times. What is the Tribulation? Who—or what—is the Antichrist? What is the abomination that causes desolation? And most importantly... are YOU ready for Jesus' return? We explore 1 John, Revelation, Daniel, and Jesus' own words to uncover the signs, the warnings, and the hope that God gives us for the final days. This message will both challenge and prepare you to stay rooted in Christ no matter what comes.

What does it really mean to follow Jesus in a world that pulls us in the opposite direction? In this powerful Easter message, Pastor Jason walks us through 1 John 2:15-17, where we're reminded that true discipleship requires being set apart. The culture around us may celebrate self, comfort, and compromise—but Jesus calls us to something greater: Kingdom living. We learn that sin separates us from God, even when it seems small or socially acceptable. It dims the light and slowly distances us from the source of life. The apostle John challenges us to recognize that we cannot love both the world and the Father—our hearts and actions ultimately reveal where our true loyalty lies. But there is hope: through Jesus, we can overcome the world. His resurrection power makes it possible to live differently, to live fully surrendered, and to live as true citizens of God's Kingdom.

What's the best advice you'd give to the people you love most? This Palm Sunday, we're looking at the words of the apostle John—one of Jesus' closest friends—as he gives what might be the most important advice of all: “I write this to you so that you will not sin.” In this message, we'll explore what it means to truly be a disciple of Jesus: - Why Jesus' triumphal entry is more than a moment—it's a mission - What it means for Jesus to be our Savior and Advocate - How disciples respond to Jesus with obedience and love - Three honest questions every believer should ask It's a timely reminder that discipleship isn't just about belief—it's about response. It's about letting Jesus deal with our sin, walking in the light, and loving others well. Let this message lead you to a moment of personal reflection and real response. Whether you're new to faith or have followed Jesus for years, there's always something more to lay down—and more love to live out.

In this sermon, Pastor J dives into the powerful topic of reconciliation from 1 John 1. He uses a heartbreaking but inspiring story from Charleston to talk about the radical forgiveness that only a fellowship with Jesus can offer. What does it really mean to have fellowship with God? And how can we experience true reconciliation through Jesus? Here's what you can expect in this message: - Reconciliation—how it's all about restoring our relationship with God. - What it really means to have fellowship with God and Jesus through His death and resurrection. - The simple yet profound Biblical truth: Grace + Faith = Salvation. - The importance of declaring Jesus as King through confession and baptism. This isn't just about religion or rules—it's about a real, life-changing relationship with God. If you're wondering how to start that journey, this message will give you the clarity and encouragement you need!

Welcome to week 1 of our sermon series on 1st John. This week, we dive deep into the powerful opening of 1 John 1:1-4, where the Apostle John introduces the core of our Christian faith—the Incarnation: God became flesh in the person of Jesus Christ. In a world full of differing opinions, religious divides, and cultural confusion, John's letter calls us to return to the essential truth that defines Christianity: Jesus is God, in the flesh. We explore the significance of Jesus' divinity, His role in creation, and how His life, death, and resurrection offer us the gift of eternal life. As we navigate the divisions within the church and the world, we answer three vital questions: What is doctrinally essential for Christian faith and identity? Does Christian faith require Christian conduct to be valid? Is love the most important value? Join us as we unpack the Incarnation and its implications for how we live out our faith. Whether you're exploring Christianity or seeking to deepen your understanding, this series will guide you in strengthening your relationship with Jesus and navigating the complexities of the modern world with His truth.

Too many men have chosen apathy. They refuse to fight, and they are doing nothing. In the meantime, their marriages and family are starving, their relationships are falling apart, and this evil world is more than willing to fill your silence with their destructive voices to lead your families astray while you sit back and do nothing. You're not a man… Because you declare yourself to be. Because of your biology. You're a man because you boldly stand up against the enemy and declare loudly, “As for me and my house we will serve the Lord!” Join us for the final sermon in our series, Fighting Shadows, as we learn to fight apathy with boldness.

Fighting Shadows: Overcoming Futility and Finding Purpose In this powerful and personal reflection, I share the struggle of feeling like what we do is meaningless, even after hard work and success. In the midst of the rat race, we can lose sight of our true calling and fall into the trap of futility—feeling empty and wondering if anything we do really matters. But there's hope! In this video, I discuss how I've battled feelings of worthlessness and came to realize that success isn't the ultimate goal. Instead, it's about finding significance through purpose. It's about chasing a deeper calling that brings lasting impact, not just short-term achievement. I dive into the difference between success and significance and challenge you to ask yourself: Are you living for success or for something greater? Join me as I explore: - How to break free from feelings of futility - The importance of understanding your true calling - Why significance, not success, leads to fulfillment - The importance of finishing well and living with purpose This video is for anyone who feels stuck, questioning their purpose, or seeking to find deeper meaning in their work and life. It's never too late to live for significance, not success.

When does Godly ambition turn into selfish ambition? How do you know when you are being driven by selfish desires or by His will? Pastor Bob tackles what it means to fight the shadow of ambition as men of God!

The experience of shame is universal.  We have all felt it. We all struggle with it in some way. Shame is one of the most painful emotions we can experience. Shame takes you backward when God is trying to move you forward. Join us as we learn what it takes to combat shame in week 4 of our series, Fighting Shadows!