Weekly teachings from Radiant Church in central Iowa. We exist to introduce people to Jesus, whatever it takes, and wherever God sends us.
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!
Overtime, men get busy, distracted, and even focused on our responsibilities or jobs. And because of this, we get disconnected from the life-giving connections we need as men – deep friendships and accountability that are necessary. This leads to the shadow of loneliness. And how do we fight loneliness? With community.
This week, we tackle the first lie that keeps men from being fully alive - the shadow of despair. Pastor J tells us that in order to understand hope, the way to defeat despair, we must understand the true story of the Gospel.
Too many men today feel frustrated, adrift, paralyzed, and confused. Challenges abound. We are confused on how to define manhood in our culture today and many men are accused of toxic masculinity or propagating the patriarchy. How can Christian men find a healthy and purpose-filled vision of what it means to be a man? Join us as we uncover the seven lies that keep men from becoming fully alive: despair, shame, lust, ambition, futility, and apathy. These are struggles many women wrestle with as well so there is something for everyone. Invite your neighbors and friends. This is a series we all need to hear.
In the conclusion of our series, Love Misguided, Pastor Bob asks the question: what is essential in helping our loved ones fight their life-controlling problem? The answer: tell the truth.
Pastor Bob helps us define enabling, and how we can avoid it when trying to help our loved ones fight a life-controlling problem!
When does a stronghold become a life-controlling problem? They often start innocently, but left unaddressed, they get to a point where they become a master. So how do we help a loved one receive the comfort that God is giving us without getting drawn into issues ourselves?
The primary message of Jesus was repent. We are called to surrender our old life and change directions in life. True surrender should result in life change which creates fruit in keeping with Christ's spirit. What do you need to repent in the New Year in order to produce fruit?
At Christmas time, anxiety is on the rise and expectations high. There are gifts to buy, parties to attend, traffic is crazy, food to prepare, decorations to put up, and so many other things to mark off the to-do list. How do we manage these things while remembering the Reason for the season?
There are many in our world who are living in darkness, chaos, and despair. But we have a light - JESUS! Christmas isn't about something happening a long time ago, but what God has made available in us - His light and hope.
Christmas time with family and friends can be hard. Many people, from different walks of life, unique perspectives, opinions, various levels of insanity, all fall upon each other in one space. It's messy, and it's kind of like church. What could possibly go wrong? We've all got that embarrassing and loud uncle nobody likes to talk about, the bitter relative, political activist, and family with no filter. Christmas is often about family and friends coming together in one place. Life can be difficult when families are together and unpredictable things can happen. How can we avoid conflict, have patience, and all get along together during this holiday season? How do we deal with difficult people during the holiday season? May we learn to be gentle this Christmas season and treat all people with dignity. Instead of conflict, may the people around us find comfort in Christ as we set the example of what that looks like. Join us as we discuss what it means to do life with difficult people this Christmas season.
Learn what life with God is like: to be fully known, to be healed, to be formed for the sake of others. Learn what life with God means.
Lacking the holiday spirit, low energy or motivation, and disinterest can all be signs of the winter blues. If you're not careful, things can escalate further into a depression that can be difficult to shake. But we bring up expert Dr. Don Gilbert to tell us how we can avoid being "bah humbug" this Christmas season.
When we spend time in God's presence, we can't help but be transformed for the world around us to see.
Is my tree big enough? Are my outside lights better? Do the decorations impress? Pastor J tackles the trap of trying to keep up with the Joneses during the holiday season.
God not only reveals His name to Moses in Exodus 34:5-7, He reveals His attributes.
Do you ever feel like others are having more fun, living better lives, or experiencing more new things than you? How do we deal with FOMO?
How do you see God?
1 Corinthians 13:13 says, "And the greatest of these is love." What does it mean to love like Christ?
When you think about God, what do you see?
What does it mean to have hope, even in the darkest of times?
Our inheritance is to have God's presence!
Faith, hope, and love―we hear a lot about each on their own, but how are they related? Join us as we dive further into FAITH!
Where do we turn when life is hard, scary, or uncertain? For the Israelites, they turned to an idol they could see instead of trusting the God who delivered them. How do we turn from our visible idols and choose to seek God's presence instead?
In order to see clearly, we will need to find space for rest and focus. How do we make room for this and live disciplined in order to reconnect with God through the noise of life?
In order to see clearly, we will need to find space for rest and focus. How do we make room for this and live disciplined in order to reconnect with God through the noise of life?
How do we pursue hospitality and invite those to the table that we wouldn't normally?
Join us as we start our new sermon series and celebrate baptisms! Connect Form: https://radiantonline.org/welcome Online Giving: https://radiantonline.org/give Worship Guide: https://radiantonline.org/guide REACH Initiative: https://radiantonline.org/reach
Join us as we start our new sermon series and celebrate baptisms! Connect Form: https://radiantonline.org/welcome Online Giving: https://radiantonline.org/give Worship Guide: https://radiantonline.org/guide REACH Initiative: https://radiantonline.org/reach