The Backpack

In this week's message, Pastor Blake Lawyer opens the story of Ruth 1 and shows us how God's loyal love clings to us even when our hearts are famished and broken. Through Naomi's deep pain, Ruth's steadfast commitment, and the hope of a returning harvest, we are reminded that God's love does not let go — even when life feels hopeless. Blake challenges us to embrace God's faithful love and to embody it in our relationships with others through shared direction, shared struggle, shared culture, shared faith, and shared commitment. When bitterness tempts us to push others away, Christ invites us to see that we are never truly alone. His love holds fast — through every famine, failure, and fear.

In this weeks story, members of our Christ Community Church family share powerful stories from their spring break mission trips to Honduras and the GAP distribution center in Kentucky. Hear from Katie, Isaiah, Patrick, and Crystal as they talk about why they said "yes" to the trip, how they saw God move, and how their experiences are impacting their everyday lives back home.From worshipping in two different languages to launching a Bible study in a high school cafeteria, these testimonies show how stepping out in faith can lead to incredible transformation — not just abroad, but right here in Shelbyville.

Join us as Melissa Ballard shares how saying "yes" to God has led her on incredible adventures—from being a part of planting Christ Community Church to serving internationally in Chile. In this inspiring conversation, Melissa reflects on what it means to live on mission, why busyness shouldn't stop us from obedience, and how everyday opportunities to serve can become part of God's greater story.This testimony is a powerful reminder that living for Christ often means stepping into the unknown—and finding joy, purpose, and partnership along the way.

He is risen. He is alive. And He is coming.In this powerful Easter message, Pastor Blake Lawyer opens Revelation 1 and invites us to see Jesus—not just as a Savior who lived and died, but as the risen King in all His glory. From the isolated island of Patmos to the crowded streets of Shelbyville, the call remains the same: see the King, trust the King, and follow Him into a life worth living.Whether you're questioning your next step or longing for a deeper purpose, this sermon reminds us that Jesus is alive, and He's inviting you into the adventure of faith, mission, and resurrection hope.

On this Palm Sunday, Pastor Blake lead us through one of the most sobering sections in Scripture—Judges 19–21. In the second part of the message titled “Life Without The King,” we confront the painful realities of human brokenness, injustice, and denial. These final chapters of Judges challenge us not to look away from darkness, but to recognize our deep need for a righteous King.

In a world defined by brokenness—wars, disasters, and the consequences of sin—how do we respond when there seems to be no king? In this week's episode, Pastor Blake Lawyer opens a two-week journey through the closing chapters of Judges, exploring what happens when people live without godly leadership.Through the story of Micah and the tribe of Dan, we see three key patterns of life without the King:We commercialize religion.We blur the lines between church and state.We chase power instead of surrendering to God's.This week's message challenges us to reflect on our own lives: Are we doing what seems right in our own eyes? Or are we exalting the true King who reigns in truth and love?

In this powerful message from Judges 13-16, Pastor Blake explores the life of Samson—his great potential, his moral failures, and how his final act of faith points us to the freedom found in King Jesus. Learn how God's gift of anger, when surrendered to Him, can become a tool for passion and purpose rather than rage and ruin. Discover the hope of resurrection and the freedom from the prisons of sin.

God isn't looking to negotiate—He wants to rescue you. In this powerful message from Judges 10-11, Pastor Blake explore show Israel's cycle of sin and bargaining with God reflects our own struggles. Like Jephthah, we often try to make deals with God instead of trusting in His power to save. But Jesus, our true King, doesn't need our negotiations—He simply calls us to believe and follow Him.Listen in and be reminded that God is weary of your suffering—He wants to set you free!

In this weeks sermon,  Pastor Blake explores the story of Gideon in Judges 7-8, emphasizing the tension between courage and the temptation for power. He challenges believers to examine whether Jesus truly reigns as King in their lives or if they are living as their own rulers. Through Gideon's journey—from weakness to victory and ultimately to downfall—the sermon highlights how God's power is perfected in human weakness. It calls for humility, worship, and surrender to Christ, urging the church to embrace God's strength rather than seek their own. 

In a world filled with chaos, fear, and uncertainty, we often hide from the truth—just like Gideon in Judges 6. But God calls us out of hiding, pursues us with His love, and gives us peace in the truth of who He is.This powerful sermon unpacks the story of Gideon and how God's presence transforms our fear into faith. No matter how broken or unworthy we feel, the King pursues us, proves His power, and pushes us to trust Him courageously. Are you clothed by the King?

Larry Porter's life began with brokenness, but God was at work even when he didn't realize it. Growing up in Eastern Kentucky, Larry faced challenges that shaped his resilience and self-reliance. Despite a loving grandmother and success in sports, he always felt something was missing.Everything changed when a friend invited him to church. A powerful sermon led him to surrender his life to Christ, setting him on a path of faith that would impact his entire family. Years later, after decades of prayer, Larry had the privilege of baptizing his own father—a moment that proved God's timing is always perfect.This is a story of perseverance, answered prayers, and the transformative power of faith. If you've ever prayed for a loved one to come to Christ, Larry's journey is a reminder to keep trusting in God's plan.

Each week at Christ Community Church, we feature stories of what God's doing in the lives of the people who make up our church family - the story of how they came to faith in Jesus, the story of how God's currently growing them in grace, or even the story of how they are taking their faith outside and meeting needs in our community. This week, Tucker Keene, a lifelong member of Christ Community and a freshman at Collins High, shares his journey of overcoming a torn ACL that derailed his basketball season. Facing surgery, grueling rehab, and moments of self-doubt, Tucker turned to prayer and journaling, witnessing God's faithfulness every step of the way. His experience reshaped his identity beyond sports and inspired him to lead Bible studies with his peers, proving that even our hardest setbacks can become stepping stones to greater purpose and spiritual growth.

Join us for a powerful exploration of Judges 4 and 5 in our “We Need a King” series. In this sermon, Pastor Blake uncovers how God transforms our weaknesses into strength and positions us for His purposes—even when freedom seems to enslave us. Through the stories of Deborah, Barak, and Sisera's defeated chariots, discover five key observations about leadership, limits, and coming together in faith.

Each week at Christ Community Church, we feature stories of what God's doing in the lives of the people who make up our church family - the story of how they came to faith in Jesus, the story of how God's currently growing them in grace, or even the story of how they are taking their faith outside and meeting needs in our community. This week, Maeghan Adams shares her journey as a mother navigating the challenges and joys of raising a child with DeSanto-Shinawi Syndrome. From moments of uncertainty to discovering a life-changing community at Barron Heights, Maeghan reflects on God's guidance through life's twists and turns. Tune in as she shares how faith, resilience, and the right support system transformed her family's experience and gave her a renewed sense of purpose.

Are you struggling to fully obey God? In this episode,The Courage to Obey the King, Pastor Blake dives into Judges 3 to explore how the Israelites forgot God, fell into sin, and cried out for deliverance. Through the stories of Othniel and Ehud, we see how God raises up leaders, empowers His people, and calls us to a life of faithfulness.This message challenges us to remember God's promises, trust in His power, and find the courage to walk in obedience to our true King—Jesus Christ.

In this thought-provoking episode, we dive deep into the idea that faith isn't just about what God did in the past—it's about what He is still doing today. Featuring an insightful discussion with Nik Ripken, we challenge the mindset that sees the Bible as a historical record rather than an active, living testimony of God's ongoing work. Ripken emphasizes that we do not serve a “past-tense” God. The miracles, movements, and messages of the Bible are still unfolding in the present, and the same power that shaped the New Testament Church is available today. However, this truth also means that the trials and challenges of the Old Testament remain part of the faith journey. Are we truly embracing an active, present-tense faith? Or are we stuck believing in a God of the past rather than walking in His power today?

In this episode, Pastor Blake explore the recurring "sin cycle" as described in Judges 2:6-3:6, reflecting on how it resonates with our own struggles to remain faithful to God. Drawing parallels between the Israelites' journey and modern challenges, Pastor Blake discuss the consequences of abandoning God, the hope found in His mercy, and the ultimate salvation brought through Jesus Christ. Whether you're grappling with life's cycles or seeking inspiration to deepen your faith, this message offers encouragement to break free from the patterns of sin and embrace the redemptive power of Christ. Tune in for thought-provoking insights and practical takeaways to strengthen your walk with God.

In this week's sermon, Pastor Blake Lawyer dives into the opening chapters of Judges, introducing the series "We Need a King." Explore the Israelites' quest for leadership and their struggle to fully trust in God's plan. Pastor Blake challenges us to reflect on our own lives: Who or what are we letting lead us? Discover why Jesus is the King we need—a leader who is never satisfied with "good enough" but lovingly pursues us even in our darkest moments. Listen in to find hope, encouragement, and practical steps to live by God's power, not your own.

On this special end-of-year episode, we explore Genesis 12 and reflect on what truly matters as we prepare for 2025. Journey with us as we unpack Abram's story, his call to leave behind the familiar, and his unwavering obedience to God's promise of a new identity and purpose. We'll discuss the values of obedience over convenience, worship over work, and courage over compromise, challenging ourselves to seek God's city rather than settling for comfort. Whether you're setting goals for the new year or navigating life's milestones, this episode will inspire you to prioritize what matters most. Join us as we embrace the call to shine bright and live courageously for God's glory!

In this special Christmas-themed episode, Pastor Blake delves into the timeless story from Luke chapter 2, reflecting on the miraculous birth of Jesus and the transformative power of God's love. Through engaging storytelling and insightful biblical connections, the message explores three core truths: how love gives us something greater, rejoices with truth, and walks in others' shoes. This heartwarming sermon inspires listeners to embody Christ's love during the holiday season and beyond. A reminder of the true meaning of Christmas and a call to love deeply and authentically.

In this heartfelt episode, we delve into the miraculous birth of John the Baptist as told in Luke 1, exploring the themes of joy and sorrow intertwined in the Christmas story. Pastor Blake reflects on how God's promises bring hope and lasting joy, even amidst life's deepest disappointments and challenges. Drawing from the lives of Zechariah, Elizabeth, and John, we discuss the transformative power of faith, the role of the Holy Spirit, and how aligning ourselves with God's truth can lead to true joy. Tune in for an inspiring message about the joy that overcomes fear and sorrow, the contagious nature of sharing it with others, and the ultimate source of joy—Jesus Christ. Perfect for the season, this episode invites listeners to rediscover the profound joy of Christmas and share it with the world.

Each week at Christ Community Church, we feature stories of what God's doing in the lives of the people who make up our church family - the story of how they came to faith in Jesus, the story of how God's currently growing them in grace, our even the story of how they're taking their faith outside and meeting needs in our community. The Stories From the Trail segment shares those stores with you. This week, we hear from CCC member Madeline Smith, as she shares her story of God's faithfulness, presence, and peace, even through the deepest depths of grief and suffering.

This week's episode of The Canteen explores the profound themes of peace, based on 1 Samuel 1 and 2. Pastor Blake dives into the story of Hannah, a woman whose journey from deep sorrow to peace through prayer inspires us all. Learn how a lack of peace can be an invitation to turn to God, how to bring our deepest pains to Him, and how trusting in Jesus allows His transformative power to birth peace within us. This sermon is a reminder of God's unwavering presence in our struggles and His ability to turn pain into profound peace. Don't miss this week's uplifting and insightful message.

The Canteen features weekly sermons from the preaching ministry of Christ Community Church. This week we launch a new series titled "Miraculous Births." Pastor Blake reminds us that we have a reason to Hope. Our text for this sermon is from Judges 13. This sermon was originally preached at CCC on 12/01/24.

The Canteen features weekly sermons from the preaching ministry of Christ Community Church. As we continue in the Gospel of Luke for our miniseries titled "All the Glory," this week Pastor Blake looks at how dependence on Jesus helps us to rightly see both ourselves and the world around us.. Our text for this sermon is Luke 18:31-43. This sermon was originally preached at CCC on 11/17/24.

The Canteen features weekly sermons from the preaching ministry of Christ Community Church. As we continue in the Gospel of Luke for our miniseries titled "All the Glory," this week Pastor-Elder Daniel Bright examines the story of the Rich Young Ruler, and what his hesitance to give up his wealth for Jesus shows us about our own hearts. Our text for this sermon is Luke 18:18-30. This sermon was originally preached at CCC on 11/10/24.

Each week at Christ Community Church, we feature stories of what God's doing in the lives of the people who make up our church family - the story of how they came to faith in Jesus, the story of how God's currently growing them in grace, our even the story of how they're taking their faith outside and meeting needs in our community. The Stories From the Trail segment shares those stores with you. This week, we hear from CCC member Sarah Smith, as she tells the story of how her son's curiosity sparked her journey out of atheism and into a relationship with Jesus Christ.

The Canteen features weekly sermons from the preaching ministry of Christ Community Church. As we continue in the Gospel of Luke for our miniseries titled "All the Glory," this week Pastor Blake examines a series of stories that point us toward our need to humbly approach God in prayer. Our text for this sermon is Luke 18:1-17. This sermon was originally preached at CCC on 11/3/24.

The Canteen features weekly sermons from the preaching ministry of Christ Community Church. As we continue in the Gospel of Luke for our miniseries titled "All the Glory," this week Pastor Blake examines what we can lean from the disciples' longing for the kingdom of God and how our waiting is often a part of God's good purposes for us. Our text for this sermon is Luke 17:20-37. This sermon was originally preached at CCC on 10/27/24.

Each week at Christ Community Church, we feature stories of what God's doing in the lives of the people who make up our church family - the story of how they came to faith in Jesus, the story of how God's currently growing them in grace, our even the story of how they're taking their faith outside and meeting needs in our community. The Stories From the Trail segment shares those stores with you. This week, we hear from CCC member Tracey Marshall, who recently returned with a CCC team from a week of ministry with Sparrow Mission in Honduras. Tracey shares about what they saw and did on their trip, and the lasting impact it's having on them as they return home.

The Canteen features weekly sermons from the preaching ministry of Christ Community Church. We're heading back to the Gospel of Luke for a miniseries titled "All the Glory." This week, Pastor Blake examines Jesus' encounter with ten lepers and considers the implication that their story has for how we approach God in worship. Our text for this sermon is Luke 17:11-19. This sermon was originally preached at CCC on 10/20/24.

The Canteen features weekly sermons from the preaching ministry of Christ Community Church. This week, Students & Groups Pastor Kenny Mattingly leads us in a study of Romans 12 as we examine the transforming effect that God's word has on us.. Our text for this sermon is Romans 12:1-2.. This sermon was originally preached at CCC on 10/13/24.

Each week at Christ Community Church, we feature stories of what God's doing in the lives of the people who make up our church family - the story of how they came to faith in Jesus, the story of how God's currently growing them in grace, our even the story of how they're taking their faith outside and meeting needs in our community. The Stories From the Trail segment shares those stores with you. This week, we hear from CCC member Nate Jebsen. Nate is the principal at Collins High School here in Shelbyville, and he sits down with Pastor Blake to talk about his journey of faith and how Jesus influences the way he leads his students.

The Canteen features weekly sermons from the preaching ministry of Christ Community Church. This week, we finish our fall series in 1 Thessalonians called Kept Calm, Now Carry On, as Pastor Blake looks at how Jesus keeps the church whole in community as we await the return of Jesus. Our text for this sermon is 1 Thessalonians 5:12-28. This sermon was originally preached at CCC on 10/6/24.

Each week at Christ Community Church, we feature stories of what God's doing in the lives of the people who make up our church family - the story of how they came to faith in Jesus, the story of how God's currently growing them in grace, our even the story of how they're taking their faith outside and meeting needs in our community. The Stories From the Trail segment shares those stores with you. This week, we hear from Mike Golden, a senior at Henry County High School, as he sits down with Pastor Blake to talk about how the Lord has grown his faith in recent years, and how he's learning to lead others.

The Canteen features weekly sermons from the preaching ministry of Christ Community Church. This week, we continue our fall series in 1 Thessalonians called Kept Calm, Now Carry On, as Pastor Blake looks at what it means to stay ready for Christ's return, and the implications it has for our day-to-day living. Our text for this sermon is 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11. This sermon was originally preached at CCC on 9/29/24.

Each week at Christ Community Church, we feature stories of what God's doing in the lives of the people who make up our church family - the story of how they came to faith in Jesus, the story of how God's currently growing them in grace, our even the story of how they're taking their faith outside and meeting needs in our community. The Stories From the Trail segment shares those stores with you. This week, we hear from CCC member Megan Mattingly as she shares about the grief she's walked through since losing her dad to cancer, and how the Lord has walked with her in the midst of that grief.

The Canteen features weekly sermons from the preaching ministry of Christ Community Church. This week, we continue our fall series in 1 Thessalonians called Kept Calm, Now Carry On, as Pastor Blake looks at Paul's encouragement to remember that Jesus is coming again. We consider his return, and the implications it has for our living here and now. Our text for this sermon is 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18. This sermon was originally preached at CCC on 9/15/24.

Each week at Christ Community Church, we feature stories of what God's doing in the lives of the people who make up our church family - the story of how they came to faith in Jesus, the story of how God's currently growing them in grace, our even the story of how they're taking their faith outside and meeting needs in our community. The Stories From the Trail segment shares those stores with you. This week, we hear from Rhett Arrington, who started attending CCC through Awake Ministries, as he sits down with Pastor Blake to talk about his journey of faith.

The Canteen features weekly sermons from the preaching ministry of Christ Community Church. This week, we continue our fall series in 1 Thessalonians called Kept Calm, Now Carry On, as Pastor Blake looks at Paul's admonition to brotherly love, and the importance of friendships in our Christian walk. Our text for this sermon is 1 Thessalonians 4:9-12. This sermon was originally preached at CCC on 9/8/24.

The Canteen features weekly sermons from the preaching ministry of Christ Community Church. This week, we continue our fall series in 1 Thessalonians called Kept Calm, Now Carry On, as Pastor Blake looks at Paul's command to avoid sexual immortality, and what it means for us in our sex-saturated culture. Our text for this sermon is 1 Thessalonians 4:1-8. This sermon was originally preached at CCC on 9/1/24.

Each week at Christ Community Church, we feature stories of what God's doing in the lives of the people who make up our church family - the story of how they came to faith in Jesus, the story of how God's currently growing them in grace, our even the story of how they're taking their faith outside and meeting needs in our community. The Stories From the Trail segment shares those stores with you. This week, we hear from CCC member Kelly Frazier, who shares about her journey around the globe and back again as a foreign missionary, and the hard things God showed and taught her along the way.