The JaxNaz Church Podcast

Questions for Reflection: Of the pictures given in Scripture to portray our engagement in God's mission, which one resonates most with you and why? Salt and light (Matthew 5), aroma (2 Corinthians 2), ambassador (2 Corinthians 5), letter (2 Corinthians 3), or worker (1 Corinthians 3). Brennan Manning writes, “The greatest single cause of atheism in the world today is Christians. Who acknowledge Jesus with their lips and walk out the door and deny him by their lifestyle. That is what an unbelieving world simply finds unbelievable.” How does this land with you? This week, listen for people who say the following: I'm not in church. Things are not going well. We are not prepared for what we're facing. Take a moment and pray for the courage to seize these as “come sit with me” opportunities. Key Verse(s)Salt and light (Matthew 5), aroma (2 Corinthians 2), ambassador (2 Corinthians 5), letter (2 Corinthians 3), worker (1 Corinthians 3). That is why the Scriptures say, “How beautiful are the feet of messengers who bring good news!” Romans 10:15What a huge harvest! And how few the harvest hands. So on your knees; ask the God of the Harvest to send harvest hands. On your way! Luke 10:2-3 Learn more about JaxNaz Church at jaxnazchurch.com or, better yet, come to our Sunday services at 9:30 & 11:15a in-person or online at http://jaxnazchurch.online.FacebookInstagramYoutubeChurch Online

Questions for ReflectionThe word “participate” comes from two words meaning “to take” and “part”. Put them together, and what have you got: to take part, to be or become actively involved, or to share in. Based on this definition, would you describe yourself as a participant in what God does in and through JaxNaz Church? If so, in what ways, and to what degree? We talked about four opportunities to participate: partner with God in his mission (more on this next week), give generously, join a Group, serve on a team. How will you participate in what God is doing in and through JaxNaz Church as we make room to grow? What steps can you take today? Key Verse(s)Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it. 1 Corinthians 12:27I will build my church, and all the powers of hell will not conquer it. Matthew 16:18SetlistRAISE A HALLELUJAH - BethelKING OF MY HEART - BethelRECKLESS LOVE - Cory AsburyTRUST IN GOD - Elevation WorshipLearn more about JaxNaz Church at jaxnazchurch.com or, better yet, come to our Sunday services at 9:30 & 11:15a in-person or online at http://jaxnazchurch.online.FacebookInstagramYoutubeChurch Online

01.07.24 - Lead Pastor Bryce GernandRoom to Grow - DevotionQuestions for ReflectionHealthy things grow, and growing things change, and changing things change things. What healthy change has Jesus brought into your life?God's kingdom grows and expands in the places and spaces in which it's invited to do so. Have you given God's kingdom room to grow in you; is the invitation an open invitation?As we make room to grow in our physical spaces at JaxNaz, we know that the work begins in us as we devote ourselves to his plans. What one thing do you need to let go? What one thing do you need to pick up?Key Verse(s)Jesus looked at him and loved him. “One thing you lack,” he said. Mark 10:21God's grace was so powerfully at work in them ALL…Acts 4:33SetlistPRAISE YOU ANYWHERE - Brandon LakeWHAT A BEAUTIFUL NAME - Hillsong WorshipYOU'VE ALREADY WON - Shane and ShaneAT THE CROSS - Hillsong WorshipLearn more about JaxNaz Church at jaxnazchurch.com or, better yet, come to our Sunday services at 9:30 & 11:15a in-person or online at http://jaxnazchurch.online.FacebookInstagramYoutubeChurch Online

Pastor Margie talks with Pastor James about her history at JaxNaz Church and her current role as Care Pastor. Find out some of the amazing things God is doing behind the scenes and how you can plugged in!  Learn more about JaxNaz Church at jaxnazchurch.com or, better yet, come to our Sunday services at 9:30 & 11:15a in-person or online at http://jaxnazchurch.online.FacebookInstagramYoutubeChurch Online

Generosity is about way more than money, but it does include giving of our financial resources. Our Stories series concludes with the "becoming more generous" stories of our three guests: Rebecca Armstrong, Ryanne Johnston, and Chris Bristow. This conversation was recorded and originally posted in the Para Podcast, which we will share more about later this summer.  Learn more about JaxNaz Church at jaxnazchurch.com or, better yet, come to our Sunday services at 9:30 & 11:15a in-person or online at http://jaxnazchurch.online.FacebookInstagramYoutubeChurch Online

Part of becoming more complete is becoming more of who you are made to be. That includes laying down your plans to follow God's. As Pastor James prepares to conclude his season of serving at JaxNaz as Executive Pastor, he shares some of the ways the church has helped him become more complete as he's becoming more like Jesus. Pastor Josh hosts.  Learn more about JaxNaz Church at jaxnazchurch.com or, better yet, come to our Sunday services at 9:30 & 11:15a in-person or online at http://jaxnazchurch.online.FacebookInstagramYoutubeChurch Online

Welcome to the first JaxNaz Church Podcast series! Over the next three episodes, you will hear stories of people in our church becoming more like Jesus. The Stories series kicks off  with Simon and Barbie Hodgson, who have been coming to JaxNaz for a little more than a year. In that time, the Holy Spirit has worked revival in their lives as he leads them in becoming more faithful.  Learn more about JaxNaz Church at jaxnazchurch.com or, better yet, come to our Sunday services at 9:30 & 11:15a in-person or online at http://jaxnazchurch.online.FacebookInstagramYoutubeChurch Online

In the immortal words of Paul Harvey, "And now...the rest of the story!" Pastor James and Danielle Haldane will begin a new season of ministry pastoring Eaton Rapids Church of the Nazarene starting July 23. They broke the news June 11. As promised, here's more of how God led them to this decision.  Learn more about JaxNaz Church at jaxnazchurch.com or, better yet, come to our Sunday services at 9:30 & 11:15a in-person or online at http://jaxnazchurch.online.FacebookInstagramYoutubeChurch Online

What does a human burrito have to do with the book of Psalms? Listen to this conversation with Pastors Bryce, Crystel, and James about JaxNaz Church's summer plans, practical advice about reading the Bible, and the heart behind why we want you to discover and devour God's Word together.  Learn more about JaxNaz Church at jaxnazchurch.com or, better yet, come to our Sunday services at 9:30 & 11:15a in-person or online at http://jaxnazchurch.online.FacebookInstagramYoutubeChurch Online

How do people get onto our church board? What do board members do? What's the relationship between the board and the staff like? Pastor James talks with three of our current board members, Gary Swartzlander, Chuck Bell, and Trisha Welsh, about their experience, their work, and what they appreciate about the JaxNaz Church board.  Learn more about JaxNaz Church at jaxnazchurch.com or, better yet, come to our Sunday services at 9:30 & 11:15a in-person or online at http://jaxnazchurch.online.FacebookInstagramYoutubeChurch Online

Peel back the curtain of JaxNaz Kids and JaxNaz Youth. Learn what what happens in these crucial ministries, what our Kids Ministry and Youth Ministry Assistants, Danielle and Steve, do, and find out how you can help our kids and teens become more like Jesus!  Learn more about JaxNaz Church at jaxnazchurch.com or, better yet, come to our Sunday services at 9:30 & 11:15a in-person or online at http://jaxnazchurch.online.FacebookInstagramYoutubeChurch Online

We hear people talk about keeping Christ at the center of their relationship, but what does that look like in real life? Pastor James has a conversation with his wife, Danielle, and their friends (Pastor) Crystel and Jonathan about what marriage with Jesus looks like for them. Here's a link to the event mentioned in the episode.  Learn more about JaxNaz Church at jaxnazchurch.com or, better yet, come to our Sunday services at 9:30 & 11:15a in-person or online at http://jaxnazchurch.online.FacebookInstagramYoutubeChurch Online

God is moving in Kenya through out OVC Global Active Reach Partnership! We captured a live recording of real stories of life change at our OVC luncheon on March 19. God is moving at JaxNaz and in Kenya through OVC!  Learn more about JaxNaz Church at jaxnazchurch.com or, better yet, come to our Sunday services at 9:30 & 11:15a in-person or online at http://jaxnazchurch.online.FacebookInstagramYoutubeChurch Online

What do a bad husband, pub songs, and edgy preaching have to do with JaxNaz Church? No, this isn't the setup to a bad joke. It's our history! Pastor James breaks the format to share the JaxNaz Church origin story.  Learn more about JaxNaz Church at jaxnazchurch.com or, better yet, come to our Sunday services at 9:30 & 11:15a in-person or online at http://jaxnazchurch.online.FacebookInstagramYoutubeChurch Online

It's all fun and games until someone gives their life to Jesus...then it's a CELEBRATION! Three of our high school students tell Pastor James about Zombie Tag, the lip sync competition, powerful moments, and literal life change that happened at Winter Retreat 2023.  Learn more about JaxNaz Church at jaxnazchurch.com or, better yet, come to our Sunday services at 9:30 & 11:15a in-person or online at http://jaxnazchurch.online.FacebookInstagramYoutubeChurch Online

Pastor James set up our podcasting gear on a Sunday morning and asked a handful of random people two questions: What's one thing you love about JaxNaz Church?What's one way you're becoming more like Jesus?Kids, teens, and adults participated. Their responses are amazing! Let's thank God for what He's doing and tell others by sharing this episode!  Learn more about JaxNaz Church at jaxnazchurch.com or, better yet, come to our Sunday services at 9:30 & 11:15a in-person or online at http://jaxnazchurch.online.FacebookInstagramYoutubeChurch Online

Discipleship. "You keep using that word. I do not think it means what you think it means." -Inigo MontoyaThe word disciple is used a lot in churches, but it's not explained very often. We operate with the assumptions that people know what we mean and that we all mean the same thing. What is a disciple and what does discipleship mean at JaxNaz Church? Pastors James and Tracy share their passion about this central topic in this episode.  Learn more about JaxNaz Church at jaxnazchurch.com or, better yet, come to our Sunday services at 9:30 & 11:15a in-person or online at http://jaxnazchurch.online.FacebookInstagramYoutubeChurch Online

Happy New Year!  It's the JaxNaz Church Podcast Season 2 premier episode! New year, new season...so why not meet our new(ish) staff member and learn about this new role? Pastor James talks with Patrick Kelly about life, Jesus, ministry, and  much  of the behind-the-scenes work that he does as our Technical Director.  Learn more about JaxNaz Church at jaxnazchurch.com or, better yet, come to our Sunday services at 9:30 & 11:15a in-person or online at http://jaxnazchurch.online.FacebookInstagramYoutubeChurch Online

Pastor James hands hosting responsibilities to the incomparable Steve Rice...and let's him ask whatever he wants! The results? Find out what Pastor James does during the week, what makes our staff so great, and how we've changed over time.  Learn more about JaxNaz Church at jaxnazchurch.com or, better yet, come to our Sunday services at 9:30 & 11:15a in-person or online at http://jaxnazchurch.online.FacebookInstagramYoutubeChurch Online

We've got kids on the podcast!!! Pastor James has a thoroughly delightful time with two of our staff kids. This episode is filled with giggles, jokes, stories, and an endearing conversation about Christmas movies, treats, traditions, and more.   Learn more about JaxNaz Church at jaxnazchurch.com or, better yet, come to our Sunday services at 9:30 & 11:15a in-person or online at http://jaxnazchurch.online.FacebookInstagramYoutubeChurch Online

Jesus is the most generous person in all human history. We won't be exactly like him in this life, but becoming more like him includes becoming more generous.  The JaxNaz staff leadership team, Pastors Bryce, Chris, and James, share their personal stories of becoming more generous, the scripture that motivates JaxNaz to become more generous, where your giving goes, and how you can direct the overflow of becoming more generous today!  Learn more about JaxNaz Church at jaxnazchurch.com or, better yet, come to our Sunday services at 9:30 & 11:15a in-person or online at http://jaxnazchurch.online.FacebookInstagramYoutubeChurch Online

Christmas!!!!! Whether you're ready for Christmas on November 1 or everything Christmas-related is off limits until the day after Thanksgiving, you'll want to check out this episode. Get the low-down on what's coming up this Christmas season at JaxNaz in a conversation with Pastor James, Pastor Bryce, Pastor Josh, and Danielle Haldane (Creative Ministry Assistant/Kids Ministry Assistant).  Learn more about JaxNaz Church at jaxnazchurch.com or, better yet, come to our Sunday services at 9:30 & 11:15a in-person or online at http://jaxnazchurch.online.FacebookInstagramYoutubeChurch Online

Three years ago, we sent one of our pastors and several people from our JaxNaz to start a brand new church in Jackson. God's been doing amazing things through Found Church and has some really exciting things on the horizon! Listen to this conversation between Pastor Chris Heydenburg and Pastor James to find out more! WebsiteFacebook

Pastors Bryce, Josh, and Crystel talk about the Becoming More weekend - three special days at JaxNaz Church designed to light a fire inside of us as we become more like Jesus. Learn more about JaxNaz Church at jaxnazchurch.com or, better yet, come to our Sunday services at 9:30 & 11:15a in-person or online at http://jaxnazchurch.online.FacebookInstagramYoutubeChurch Online

Technology has a TON of benefits, but it also comes with some risks. How do parents navigate the tension that exists between the pros and cons of technology today? Listen to the conversation between Pastor Crystel, Ryan Pennewill, and Pastor James and come to the Protect Young Eyes event on November 20. Episode 11: What's on your PlaylistLearn more about JaxNaz Church at jaxnazchurch.com or, better yet, come to our Sunday services at 9:30 & 11:15a in-person or online at http://jaxnazchurch.online.FacebookInstagramYoutubeChurch Online

OVC is one of our High Five Active Reach Partnerships...but what does that mean? We celebrate the church's generosity, we have a display at the church and a website...we've even gone to Kenya. But, why? What does this partnership accomplish? Pastor James dives into this and more with our OVC team lead, Steve VanWinkle, Pastor Bryce, Pastor Crystel, and Ryan Pennewill. Learn more about JaxNaz Church at jaxnazchurch.com or, better yet, come to our Sunday services at 9:30 & 11:15a in-person or online at http://jaxnazchurch.online.FacebookInstagramYoutubeChurch Online

We've been talking about NYC - the Nazarene Youth Conference. What is it, exactly? What's it like? What will our students experience? Pastor James talks with Elijah Haldane about his experience at NYC at a high school student in 2019. Learn more about JaxNaz Church at jaxnazchurch.com or, better yet, come to our Sunday services at 9:30 & 11:15a in-person or online at http://jaxnazchurch.online.FacebookInstagramYoutubeChurch Online

What do Sir Mix-a-lot, post-hardcore screamo, Marvel, and Killer Clowns from Outer Space have to do with following Jesus? Join Steve Rice (Youth Ministry Assistant), Patrick Kelly (Technical Director), and James Haldane (Executive Pastor) to find out! Learn more about JaxNaz Church at jaxnazchurch.com or, better yet, come to our Sunday services at 9:30 & 11:15a in-person or online at http://jaxnazchurch.online.FacebookInstagramYoutubeChurch Online

People expect good coffee when they come to church, but what makes the coffee experience GREAT is our team! Meet Savanna, our coffee bar team leader, and learn her story, her favorite drink, and more. Learn more about JaxNaz Church at jaxnazchurch.com or, better yet, come to our Sunday services at 9:30 & 11:15a in-person or online at http://jaxnazchurch.online.FacebookInstagramYoutubeChurch Online

What happens when people work together for over a decade?  They get to know each other well.  In this episode, we have some fun with a little "friendly" competition.  Ryanne (Connections Director) and Crystel (Family Pastor) team up against Josh (Worship Pastor) and Bryce (Lead Pastor) to see who knows each other best.  Join in the fun!Learn more about JaxNaz Church at jaxnazchurch.com or, better yet, come to our Sunday services at 9:30 & 11:15a in-person or online at http://jaxnazchurch.online.FacebookInstagramYoutubeChurch Online

We sent around 50 kids to camp this summer! Wow! What did they do? How did it impact them? Why do we even do camp in the first place? Join our conversation with Pastors Anna and Crystel to find out. Learn more about JaxNaz Church or join us every Sunday at 9:30 & 11:15a. 

Meet Ryanne Johnston, our Connections Director. On this bonus episode, Pastor James talks with Ryanne about Jesus, Smurfs, being weird, and her ministry at JaxNaz Church. JaxNaz Church is located in Jackson, MI.  We exist to make more and better disciples of Jesus Christ because we believe everyone needs to know Jesus and those who know him can always know him better. We do this by building an attractive community for our active reach. That means we're always learning how to do two things: be more like Jesus and share him with more people.Learn more about JaxNaz Church at jaxnazchurch.com or, better yet, come to our Sunday services at 9:30 & 11:15a in-person or online at http://jaxnazchurch.online.FacebookInstagramYoutubeChurch Online

What is worship? How do we pick songs? Why do we do what we do the way we do it? Pastor Josh shares the heart, purpose, and process behind worshiping through music at JaxNaz. JaxNaz Church is located in Jackson, MI.  We exist to make more and better disciples of Jesus Christ because we believe everyone needs to know Jesus and those who know him can always know him better. We do this by building an attractive community for our active reach. That means we're always learning how to do two things: be more like Jesus and share him with more people.Learn more about JaxNaz Church at jaxnazchurch.com or, better yet, come to our Sunday services at 9:30 & 11:15a in-person or online at http://jaxnazchurch.online.FacebookInstagramYoutubeChurch Online

Pastor James talks with Pastor Tracy about Groups at JaxNaz Church. JaxNaz Church is located in Jackson, MI.  We exist to make more and better disciples of Jesus Christ because we believe everyone needs to know Jesus and those who know him can always know him better. We do this by building an attractive community for our active reach. That means we're always learning how to do two things: be more like Jesus and share him with more people.Learn more about JaxNaz Church at jaxnazchurch.com or, better yet, come to our Sunday services at 9:30 & 11:15a in-person or online at http://jaxnazchurch.online.FacebookInstagramYoutubeChurch Online

James Haldane (Executive Pastor) talks  talks with Pastor Chris about faith, life, and her role at the church. JaxNaz Church is located in Jackson, MI.  We exist to make more and better disciples of Jesus Christ because we believe everyone needs to know Jesus and those who know him can always know him better. We do this by building an attractive community for our active reach. That means we're always learning how to do two things: be more like Jesus and share him with more people.Learn more about JaxNaz Church at jaxnazchurch.com or, better yet, come to our Sunday services at 9:30 & 11:15a in-person or online at http://jaxnazchurch.online.FacebookInstagramYoutubeChurch Online

We're taking church outside! In this episode, Pastor James (Executive Pastor) talks with Ryanne Johnston (Connections Director), Pastor Anna Murphy (Youth Pastor), and Steve Rice (Youth Ministry Assistant) about the why, how, and what details of our outdoor service for July 3, 2022. JaxNaz Church is located in Jackson, MI.  We exist to make more and better disciples of Jesus Christ because we believe everyone needs to know Jesus and those who know him can always know him better. We do this by building an attractive community for our active reach. That means we're always learning how to do two things: be more like Jesus and share him with more people. Learn more about JaxNaz Church at jaxnazchurch.com or, better yet, come to our outdoor service at 10:30a this Sunday (July 3, 2022) in-person or online at https://jaxnazchurch.online.FacebookInstagramYoutubeChurch Online

Josh Guy (Worship Pastor) is joined by James Haldane (Executive Pastor) and Jim Johnston.  Jim has been a member of JaxNaz Church since he was a child.  In fact, his Dad pastored JaxNaz Church for 10 years in the 1960s.  Jim has since served on the board, led multiple ministries and small groups and has been instrumental in helping make JaxNaz the church it is today.  In this episode, Jim shares the history of JaxNaz Church and talks about the events and people that have shaped JaxNaz for over a century.JaxNaz Church is located in Jackson, MI.  We exist to make more and better disciples of Jesus Christ because we believe everyone needs to know Jesus and those who know him can always know him better. We do this by building an attractive community for our active reach. That means we're always learning how to do two things: be more like Jesus and share him with more people.Learn more about JaxNaz Church at jaxnazchurch.com or, better yet, come to our Sunday services at 9:30 & 11:15a in-person or online at http://jaxnazchurch.online.FacebookInstagramYoutubeChurch Online

Something amazing happens when fun, faith, and families come together. We develop a faith that sticks - in our kids and in our parents! In this episode, Pastor James (Executive Pastor) talks with Pastor Crystel (Kids & Family Pastor) and Ryan Pennewill (Creative Director) about the intersection of fun and faith in the Family Group they co-lead. JaxNaz Church is located in Jackson, MI.  We exist to make more and better disciples of Jesus Christ because we believe everyone needs to know Jesus and those who know him can always know him better. We do this by building an attractive community for our active reach. That means we're always learning how to do two things: be more like Jesus and share him with more people. Learn more about JaxNaz Church at jaxnazchurch.com or, better yet, come to our Sunday services at 9:30 & 11:15a in-person or online at https://jaxnazchurch.online.FacebookInstagramYoutubeChurch Online

Josh Guy (Worship Pastor) talks with Bryce Gernand (Lead Pastor) to find out Bryce's story, how he came to JaxNaz, and what he's excited about for the future of the church.JaxNaz Church is located in Jackson, MI.  We exist to make more and better disciples of Jesus Christ because we believe everyone needs to know Jesus and those who know him can always know him better. We do this by building an attractive community for our active reach. That means we're always learning how to do two things: be more like Jesus and share him with more people.Learn more about JaxNaz Church at jaxnazchurch.com or, better yet, come to our Sunday services at 9:30 & 11:15a in-person or online at http://jaxnazchurch.online.FacebookInstagramYoutubeChurch Online

Josh Guy (Worship Pastor) explains the "why" behind starting a podcast.  JaxNaz Church is located in Jackson, MI.  We exist to make more and better disciples of Jesus Christ because we believe everyone needs to know Jesus and those who know him can always know him better. We do this by building an attractive community for our active reach. That means we're always learning how to do two things: be more like Jesus and share him with more people. Learn more about JaxNaz Church at jaxnazchurch.com or, better yet, come to our Sunday services at 9:30 & 11:15a in-person or online at http://jaxnazchurch.online.FacebookInstagramYoutubeChurch Online