At Shorewood Church of God our senior pastor, Jarad Houser, delivers contemporary, bible based teaching each week. Services are every Sunday morning at 10am, at Shorewood Church of God. 203 School Road Shorewood, IL 60404 scog.com
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Send us Fan MailThis week on the Bible Recap Podcast, Pastor Eric dives into the powerful message of Isaiah 40, where God's words of comfort begin to break through after seasons of judgment. We're reminded that true comfort is found in the incredible truth that our sin has been paid for. God has made peace with us; not because we earned it, but because of His overwhelming grace and mercy.Pastor Eric also explores the enduring nature of God's Word. While everything in this world fades, the Word of God stands forever. His promises never expire because He is the unchanging God; faithful yesterday, today, and forever.Join us as we reflect on the hope, comfort, and confidence we can find in a God whose grace is limitless and whose promises never fail.Support the show

Send us Fan MailThis week on the Bible Recap Podcast, Pastor Julie and Kayla dive into the powerful message of the book of Micah. Together they reflect on the themes that stood out most as they read through this prophetic book; God's unwavering justice, His incredible mercy, and His invitation for His people to return to Him with humble hearts.Join the conversation as they unpack Micah's timeless call to "act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God," while discussing how these truths still challenge and encourage believers today. Whether you're reading through the Bible for the first time or have studied Micah before, this episode offers practical insights and meaningful application for your walk with Christ.Grab your Bible, tune in, and let's discover together what God is saying through the words of the prophet Micah.Support the show

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Send us Fan Mail Join Pastor Julie for this week's Bible Recap as we journey through the book of Jonah—a story that's about far more than a man and a great fish. Together, we'll discover God's relentless mercy, His heart for every nation, and what happens when we try to run from His calling. Jonah reminds us that God's grace reaches farther than we could ever imagine, and His plans are always better than our own. Whether you've read Jonah many times or are seeing it with fresh eyes, this episode will encourage you to trust God's purpose, embrace His compassion, and remember that no one is beyond His love. Support the show

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Send us Fan MailThis week on Bible Recap with Pastor Julie, we journey through the short but powerful book of Obadiah and discover that family conflict isn't just a modern struggle—it's woven throughout Scripture. As we explore the story of Edom, we're reminded that while earthly families may disappoint, betray, or fail us, our Heavenly Father never will.Obadiah's very name means "servant of the Lord," a beautiful reminder of who we are and to whom we belong. As God's covenant people, we can rest in the truth that He never leaves us, He always hears us, and He remains faithful in every season.Edom believed they were untouchable, but God Himself declared that their pride would bring them low. True biblical wisdom begins with the fear of the Lord, and although Edom knew who God was, they chose pride over repentance and rejected His invitation to come to Him.Join Pastor Julie as we uncover how pride, betrayal, and revenge never have the final word. Instead, God's justice, mercy, and faithfulness prevail. We'll also connect Obadiah's message with Psalm 83, which reminds us that the Lord alone is the Most High over all the earth.No matter what family struggles you've experienced, this episode is a powerful reminder that your identity is found in belonging to God's family—and His faithfulness never fails.Support the show

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Send us Fan MailThis week we walk through the life and ministry of Elijah in 1 Kings, where we see God's power displayed through three powerful miracles that remind us nothing is beyond His reach.We begin with the resurrection of the widow's son—a moment that reveals God's compassion and authority over even death itself. Then we move to Mount Carmel, where Elijah confronts the prophets of Baal and God answers by fire, proving once again that He alone is the true God. After the drought ends and rain finally comes, it becomes clear that the whole nation is witnessing God's unmistakable hand at work.But the story doesn't stop at victory. Elijah, after such a spiritual high, finds himself exhausted, overwhelmed, and emotionally depleted; so much so that he asks God to take his life. His struggle reminds us that even after powerful seasons of faith, we are still vulnerable to discouragement and burnout.God meets Elijah in his lowest moment and leads him to Mount Horeb, where wind, earthquake, and fire pass by; but God is not in them. Instead, He comes in a gentle whisper. A still, small voice. An intimate presence.It's a profound reminder: God doesn't only speak in the dramatic moments. Often, He draws near in quietness. Elijah needed restoration not just through power, but through presence.As you reflect on this week, consider this: in what way are you longing to experience God's voice today?Support the show

Send us Fan MailJoin Pastor Eric for Episode 25 of the Bible Recap as we explore the book of Ecclesiastes. Written by Solomon, "the Teacher," Ecclesiastes takes us on a journey in search of life's true meaning. Solomon examines wisdom, pleasure, work, wealth, and achievement, asking a timeless question: Can anything in this life truly satisfy the deepest longing of the human heart?Together, we'll unpack Solomon's observations about the emptiness of pursuing fulfillment apart from God and discover the hope found in living with an eternal perspective. If you've ever wrestled with questions about purpose, satisfaction, or the meaning of life, this conversation is for you.Join us as we take a closer look at Ecclesiastes and uncover the truth that only God can fill the deepest desires of the human soul.Support the show

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Send us Fan MailThis week, Pastor Eric takes us into the book of Proverbs, where wisdom isn't just something we know—it's something we live. In a world full of opinions, quick fixes, and endless advice, Proverbs reminds us that true wisdom begins with reverence for God and is revealed in the choices we make every day.Wisdom is more than knowledge. It's learning to listen, discern, and apply God's truth to our relationships, words, decisions, and priorities.As you listen, consider: Where are you seeking wisdom right now? Are your daily choices reflecting God's truth or the world's advice? Is there an area of your life where you know what is right, but haven't acted on it? Who are you allowing to influence your thinking and direction? God doesn't just want us to be informed—He wants us to be transformed. Join us as we discover how the timeless wisdom of Proverbs can guide our everyday lives and help us walk in God's best.Support the show

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Send us Fan MailJoin Pastor Julie this week as we reflect on the life of Solomon and the powerful connection between wisdom and obedience.Have you ever found yourself repeating the same instructions to your kids over and over again? Solomon's story reminds us that wisdom isn't just about what we know—it's about what we do with what we know. The real question isn't, "Am I wise?" The question is, "Am I listening?"As we explore Solomon's life, consider this important challenge:What sacred thing has God entrusted to you that you've stopped intentionally protecting?Your time with God?Your family?Your calling?Your thought life?Your wonder for the things of God?Tune in as we discover how listening to God's wisdom can help us faithfully guard the gifts He has placed in our care.Support the show

Send us Fan MailThis week on The Bible Recap, Pastor Eric walks through the life of Solomon and the tension of a man who loved God sincerely—but incompletely. Together we wrestle with the question: if God handed you a blank check like He did Solomon, what would you ask for?Solomon asked for a discerning heart, and through his story we see that God's wisdom was never meant to elevate ourselves—it was meant to serve people. True wisdom treats people fairly, especially when situations get messy and complicated.This conversation also challenges us to think about our own spiritual formation. What are we building into our lives now that will carry us through later? Spiritual formation matters because it's the foundation that sustains us through both blessing and hardship.Join Pastor Eric for an honest and practical conversation about wisdom, leadership, discernment, and the kind of faith that lasts.Support the show

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Send us Fan MailThis week takes us into 2 Samuel and several of the Psalms, where we uncover some of the lies men often believe and discover a deeper side of God's love. This week's reading reminds us that God's correction is not punishment without purpose; it's evidence of His care. He can be trusted enough to correct us because He loves us too much to leave us in our brokenness. Support the show

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Send us Fan MailPastor Julie shares her “God shots” from this week's readings, offering insight and encouragement to stay grounded in the Gospel daily. She reminds us that when we drift from God's Word, our minds begin to create their own version of truth. To remain anchored, we must intentionally stay rooted in Scripture; renewing our minds, strengthening our faith, and aligning our thoughts with God's truth each day. As we do, we are called to stay teachable, keeping our hearts open to what God wants to show us.Support the show

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Send us Fan MailJoin as Pastor Julie dives into the powerful truth of what it means to be adopted into God's family. This episode explores the beauty of spiritual adoption—how, through Christ, we are no longer defined by our past, our brokenness, or the “bloodlines” we come from, but instead are given a new identity rooted in Him.Pastor Julie unpacks the significance of having a new, pure bloodline in Christ—one that brings freedom, redemption, and belonging. No matter your story, God invites you into His family with purpose and intention. This episode is a reminder that you are chosen, fully known, and deeply loved.Tune in as we reflect on the transformative power of God's grace and what it truly means to live as His sons and daughters.Support the show

Send us Fan MailThe recording missed the first couple minutes of the sermon today, so there is an abrupt start.Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we dive into how to study the Psalms and why they're meant to be experienced as prayers, not just read like a textbook. What do you do when you don't have the words to pray? The Psalms give us language for every emotion—joy, fear, anger, and hope. Using a simple framework—read, recognize, trace, see, and respond—we learn how to engage Scripture in a more personal and powerful way. If you've ever struggled to pray, this episode will help you find your voice by borrowing the words God has already given.Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we dive into how David stood before a giant with zero armor, zero experience in battle, and zero reason (by the world's standards) to win… yet he walked forward with unshakable confidence. Why? Because his trust wasn't in himself—it was in God.David didn't win because he believed in himself—he won because he believed in God.We explore how so often we're told to “believe in ourselves,” but what happens when we don't feel strong, capable, or enough? David shows us a different way: a confidence rooted not in our own ability, but in God's faithfulness.Through real-life application and honest reflection, this episode will challenge you to shift your perspective—from self-reliance to God-reliance—and discover a deeper, steadier kind of confidence that doesn't crumble under pressure.Walk into the unknown not saying “I've got this,” but boldly declaring, “God's got me.”If you've ever felt inadequate, overwhelmed, or outmatched, this message is for you.Support the show

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Send us Fan MailIn today's episode of The Bible Recap, Pastor Eric takes us into the book of Judges, where leaders weren't just decision-makers—they were hands-on warriors, stepping into battle first like a king or president leading their people. As the story unfolds, we witness a sobering cycle: Israel drifts from God, falls into sin, cries out for help, and is rescued—only to repeat the pattern again.But each time, the spiral goes deeper. Sin becomes more normalized, repentance grows shorter, and the distance from God increases. This isn't just Israel's story—it's a reflection of human nature.A key takeaway is this: sin still looks appealing. It's often presented as fun, harmless, and satisfying. It whispers, “this isn't a big deal.” But the end result is always brokenness. Sin never delivers what it promises.Yet even in the midst of this broken cycle, one truth remains constant: God's compassion, patience, and steadfast love for His people never waver.Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this week's episode, Pastor Eric walks through Joshua and wrestles with a challenging question: why do some people phase out in their faith?As God promises the land to Israel, He also calls them to go and take it. The promise is given—but action is required. In the same way, we are called to step forward in faith, not sit back in comfort.This week is a reminder that God isn't here to serve us—we are here to serve Him. He is faithful to give, but we are still called to go.Support the show

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Send us Fan MailIn this week's episode, Pastor Eric dives into spiritual formation in the book of Deuteronomy, asking: what do we do with our faith, and how do we pass it on to future generations?At the center is a simple but powerful truth—if you love God, obedience follows. Loving the right things shapes how we live, and what we love today becomes the legacy we leave behind.Support the show

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Send us Fan MailThis week we enter the book of Deuteronomy as Moses reminds Israel of all God has done for them and calls them to remember His faithfulness. As they prepare to enter the Promised Land, the focus is on obedience, trust, and loving God with their whole hearts.Week 11 reminds us that remembering God's goodness helps keep our hearts aligned with Him as we walk forward in faith.Support the show

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This week's reading is filled with familiar stories and more movement in Israel's journey. In this episode, Pastor Eric highlights an important pattern we see throughout Scripture: sometimes the very thing God uses to draw us to Himself or save us can slowly begin to replace Him.It's a reminder to keep our focus on God, not just the blessings, provisions, or experiences He uses in our lives.Support the show

In this week's episode, Pastor Eric reflects on Israel's wilderness journey and the powerful lessons woven throughout. We're reminded that complaining slowly kills the spirit, while trust keeps our hearts aligned with God.We also see that God's detailed instructions weren't random rules — they were preparation. He was shaping His people for the promise ahead.Most beautifully, God places His presence in the cloud surrounding them. He doesn't lead from a distance — He dwells among His people. Week 9 reminds us of this powerful truth: God desires to be with us.Support the show

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In this episode, Pastor Eric reflects on Week 8 of The Bible Recap, what begins with bold promises — “We will do everything the Lord has said” — quickly turns into impatience, compromise, and broken trust when Moses delays on the mountain.Yet even in rebellion, we encounter something powerful: a holy God who is also merciful. Through intercession, discipline, and covenant renewal, the Lord reveals His character — compassionate, gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love.As Lent begins this week, this passage invites us to reflect on what's ahead. Lent calls us into repentance, surrender, and preparation for the cross. Just as Israel had to confront their wandering hearts, we are invited to examine ours — to lay down our idols, to wait on the Lord, and to remember that His presence is the greatest gift.Join us as we look forward to the journey toward Easter, considering how repentance, renewal, and reverence prepare us to fully grasp the sacrifice and victory that are coming.Support the show

In this episode, Pastor Eric reflects on Week 7 of The Bible Recap, we examine the giving of the Ten Commandments and God's specific instructions for constructing the Temple. What may seem like a list of rules and measurements actually reveals something deeper: God takes His relationship with His people — and where we meet Him — very seriously.Through covenant and careful design, we see a holy God creating a way to dwell among His people. Discover how obedience, reverence, and intentional worship still shape our faith today.Support the show

In this episode, Pastor Eric reflects on Week 6 of The Bible Recap, we journey through the opening chapters of Exodus. Pastor Eric walks us through one of the most powerful stories in Scripture—God hearing the cries of His people and moving mightily to set them free. From Israel's suffering in Egypt to the miraculous crossing of the Red Sea, Exodus 1–15 reveals a God who is faithful to His promises, sovereign over kings and nations, and deeply attentive to the pain of His people.In this episode, Pastor Eric unpacks themes of oppression, obedience, deliverance, and worship, helping listeners see how God's work in Exodus still speaks to our lives today. Whether you're feeling stuck, waiting on God's timing, or longing for freedom, this teaching will encourage you to trust the Lord who still makes a way where there seems to be none.Support the show

In this episode, Pastor Eric reflects on Week 5 of The Bible Recap, a deeply emotional and redemptive portion of Scripture centered on Joseph and his family. As we follow Joseph's brothers on their journeys—both physical and spiritual—we see possibly guilt being resurface as they pass the very place where they once sold their brother into slavery. This week highlights the heavy weight of sin, the power of unresolved guilt, and the slow work of repentance and transformation. Through betrayal, suffering, and unexpected reunions, we witness God's sovereignty at work, weaving redemption out of broken choices and fractured relationships. Join us as we unpack key moments, reflect on themes of conviction, forgiveness, and restoration, and identify our “God shots” that remind us God is always working—even when the past comes back to confront us. Tune in for meaningful insights and practical takeaways that connect Joseph's story to our own walk with God today. Support the show