Podcasts about central phoenix

Acts 13 shows Paul risking it all for the gospel. What does it mean for us to bring Christ into modern public spaces, even when it costs us?

The book of Acts reveals the unstoppable advance of Christ's kingdom through the Spirit-empowered church, fulfilling Jesus' Great Commission. Paul's transformation from persecutor to preacher shows that God can redeem anyone, and his ministry in Cyprus and Antioch demonstrates the power of the gospel to humble, transform, and reframe the world's false stories with the true story of God's redemption. Living on mission is costly, marked by suffering and sacrifice, yet it is worth everything because Jesus has already given everything for us.

From Peter's jailbreak to modern stories of traffickers turning to Jesus, this episode shows how even “little weedy prayers” can unleash God's miraculous power.

Bart sits down with co-founder John Koborowski to rapid-fire update the portfolio—especially assets tied to Neighborhood Ventures' Opportunistic Fund: Asset #1 (acquired Jan ‘25): Occupancy jumped from 72% → 85%+ as tenant quality improved and maintenance was brought in-house; Google reviews surged from ~2.5★ to 5★ under on-site leadership. Venture on 52nd (closed mid-March): Now 94% occupied with 12 new leases and 15 renewals trending to market. Light CapEx (sound-dampening doors on Thomas-facing units, new semi-private patios) is boosting NOI and rental appeal. Venture on 12th Place: Strategic refinance converted $2M debt → $2M equity, locking in fixed financing and positioning a well-renovated, high-occupancy asset for a stronger hold. Venture on Maryland (under contract): 78 units in Central Phoenix at a compelling basis with lender-backed reno dollars; plan is staged interior upgrades and bringing ~$1,100 one-beds toward ~$1,500 market rents. Venture on Country Club: City-driven life-safety upgrades (sprinklers, egress, signage) slated to start September with tenants in place—stabilizing operations in a “buy-don't-sell” market. Clear takeaways: disciplined ops, targeted CapEx, and cycle-aware buying are driving occupancy, NOI, and long-term positioning across the NV portfolio.

In Acts 11–12, God makes clear that the gospel is for all people, breaking down cultural and religious barriers through Peter's vision and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. The early church is called to embrace generosity, humility, and faith-filled prayer, as seen in the Gentiles' support during famine and Peter's miraculous release from prison. These chapters remind us that true inclusion is marked by the Spirit, not tradition, and that the Church grows when it reflects Christ authentically, prays expectantly, and gives God all the glory.

On this episode of the Neighborhood Ventures Podcast, the team introduces Venture on Maryland, a 78-unit multifamily property in Central Phoenix acquired at a significant discount. Purchased for $10.7M (down from $17M in 2022), the property will undergo $2M in renovations to modernize units and boost rental demand in one of Phoenix's most desirable neighborhoods. Jason and Heidi walk through how NV sourced the deal, why the seller was motivated, and how strong lender alignment secured favorable loan terms—including 100% of renovation costs financed. They also share the renovation strategy, timeline, and exit plan, while explaining how this acquisition fits into the broader Opportunistic Fund alongside other distressed assets. For investors, it's a behind-the-scenes look at why now is the time to buy in Phoenix's multifamily market—and how NV executes its buy-renovate-stabilize strategy for long-term value.

Saul's radical transformation from persecutor to preacher (Acts 9) and Cornelius' Spirit-filled awakening (Acts 10) reveal that no one is beyond God's grace, that the Holy Spirit empowers ordinary people to boldly witness for Christ, and that God's kingdom welcomes all, regardless of background. These stories remind us that God is always at work, orchestrating redemption, and that we too come as unlikely converts made new through Jesus' sacrifice and the power of His Spirit.

In a world hungry for hope, Cody and Alec reflect on how God is moving in fresh ways today—and how simple stewardship, authentic stories, and love across differences can open doors for the gospel.

Stephen, though opposed and falsely accused, boldly proclaimed Christ and, even in death, reflected Jesus' forgiveness. His martyrdom sparked persecution that scattered believers, spreading the gospel even further. Philip then stepped onto the scene, performing miracles, bringing joy to cities, and sharing the good news with an Ethiopian seeker who was baptized on the spot. The heart of the message is clear: the gospel's power isn't about our eloquence or credentials but about the Holy Spirit working through willing and obedient believers.

EP 262: This week on Revival Town Podcast, we sit down with church planter, podcaster, and leader Josh Andrew. Josh and his wife Lexi are launching Valley Church Phoenix alongside Pastors Chris and Connor Moore, bringing hope and faith to the heart of Central Phoenix. With nearly a decade of ministry experience, Josh shares his passion for building the local church, investing in leaders, and creating spaces where people can grow in faith. We also dive into the heart of servant leadership—what it means, how it's lived out in everyday ministry, and why it's essential for healthy churches. Plus, Josh talks about his Conversations podcast, which has reached listeners in over 50 countries, and how God is using it to inspire faith, leadership, and personal growth.

Acts 5 and 6 remind us that bold obedience and humble service are key to gathering that harvest. In Acts 5, the apostles face persecution yet refuse to stop preaching Christ, showing us that courage and faithfulness advance God's mission even under opposition. In Acts 6, the church wisely resolves internal conflict through servant leadership, leading to greater unity and growth. Together, these passages call us to live with integrity, share the gospel with love and boldness, and serve one another across differences—so that we might see revival and a great harvest in our own time.

Evangelism isn't only overseas—it's in neighborhoods, workplaces, and daily encounters. What does it mean to live as “suburban missionaries”?

When the Spirit changes us, it's impossible to keep it to ourselves. In Acts 3–4, Peter and John heal a lame man, proclaim Jesus to thousands, and stand firm despite opposition—not out of obligation, but from lives shaped by being with Him. True evangelism flows from this kind of transformation—seeing and meeting needs, reaching all people without partiality, speaking boldly even when it's costly, and living in deep, Spirit-formed unity. This is not a program or strategy, but the natural overflow of a life changed by Christ.

We're beginning our journey through the book of Acts—a story that shows following Jesus is anything but boring. It's a Spirit-empowered adventure that calls us to boldness, even in fear, and devotion to God's Word, community, generosity, and prayer. After His resurrection, Jesus told His disciples to wait in Jerusalem for the Holy Spirit. Though it was dangerous, they obeyed—and on Pentecost, the Spirit came with power. What followed was extraordinary: they proclaimed the gospel in many languages, lived with radical generosity, and committed themselves to four key practices—the apostles' teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer. These rhythms shaped the early Church and still form the foundation of a Spirit-led life today.

In Ruth 4, the story of Ruth and Boaz reaches its redemptive climax. After Ruth boldly follows Naomi's instructions to seek Boaz as a redeemer, Boaz honors her request but must first offer the right to a closer relative. When that man declines, Boaz redeems Ruth and Elimelech's land, marrying Ruth to preserve the family line. Their union results in the birth of Obed, grandfather of King David—placing Ruth in the lineage of Jesus. This chapter reveals God's quiet yet powerful providence, His care for the marginalized, and His ability to weave redemption through faithful, ordinary lives. It's a reminder that our stories are part of His greater, eternal one.

Deuteronomy, genealogy, and ancient proposals—Ruth 3 might seem foreign, but it reveals timeless truths about family, covenant, and Jesus' lineage through unlikely women.

In Ruth 3, we see a beautiful picture of Jesus' sacrificial and covenantal love as our Redeemer, who covers us with grace and mercy—our kanap (the corner of His garment, wings, or covering). Throughout Ruth's story, covering symbolizes protection, provision, belonging, and forgiveness: Ruth covers Naomi in her loss, Boaz covers Ruth as his bride, and God ultimately covers His people through Jesus. We are called to receive His covering (Matthew 23:37; Isaiah 61:10) and extend it to others—covering the vulnerable and nurturing those God has entrusted to us (James 1:27; 1 Peter 4:8)—reflecting His love and care in our relationships.

We explore the Hebrew concept of hesed — loyal, generous love — and its deep connection to belonging, relationships, and God's covenant faithfulness.

Life can feel uncertain and senseless, full of “maybe's,” but the gospel reminds us that God is writing a story of “definitely's.” In Ruth 2, we see His redeeming love as Boaz shows generosity and Ruth steps out in faith, meeting in a field where God weaves their stories together. C.J. shared how his own loss and adoption story revealed that even in grief, God is not finished—His redemption is real and personal. Our pain and waiting are not wasted; they are part of His bigger story of hope, hesed, and guaranteed redemption.

A deep dive into Ruth 1, exploring the beauty of covenant relationships — with God, with family, and with others — and how they reflect His faithfulness even in fractured families and loneliness.

This week we studied the opening of Ruth, seeing her as a woman of fierce loyalty and quiet strength. After losing her husband, she chose to stay with her grieving mother-in-law Naomi, returning to Bethlehem as a foreigner and eventually marrying Boaz, becoming part of Christ's lineage. Ruth's story reveals God's providence and redemption through ordinary people, extending His grace to Gentiles and showing women as full heirs of His promises. Naomi, bitter and broken, needed someone to stay with her in her pain—Ruth became that friend, bound to her and to God in covenant love. The meaning of Ruth's name, “friendship,” beautifully points to this: a person nailed to the covenant, finding belonging in God and extending it to others. Like Ruth, we too can root ourselves in Jesus and offer His steadfast friendship to the broken and lonely around us.

Shalom is not a fragmented or surface-level peace—it's the wholeness and fullness of God Himself, offered to every part of our lives. While the world offers momentary relief, Jesus offers His very presence, inviting us into the peace that surpasses understanding (Philippians 4:7). This kind of peace grows as we consistently spend time with Him—in prayer, Scripture, worship, solitude, and community. It's a discipline, often met with both comfort and challenge, but always leading us back to rest in Christ. Even in our inconsistency or distraction, God's grace draws us near, reminding us that Jesus modeled this rhythm of retreat and communion with the Father (Luke 5:16). True peace isn't something we manufacture—it's something we enter into.

Pastors CJ, Renee, and Alec have a real, honest, and encouraging conversation about what the Bible says about sex within marriage, how purity culture shaped many of our views, and how God brings healing from sexual brokenness. Whether you're single, married, or somewhere in between, this discussion offers hope, biblical truth, and practical steps toward cultivating healthy intimacy.

Shalom—“the way things ought to be”—is the foundation for understanding God's design for sexuality. Rooted in the self-giving nature of the Trinity, sex within marriage reflects a sacred rhythm of connection, strength, and vulnerability. But this gift is often attacked and distorted by the enemy through shame, lies, and brokenness. Still, Jesus redeems even our sexuality, offering healing and renewal. Paul's teaching in 1 Corinthians 7 calls couples to mutual joy, responsibility, and honor in their sexual union—not as a transaction, but as covenantal love. Ultimately, sex points to the self-giving love of Christ, who restores what is broken and renews our covenant through His sacrifice.

True peace comes not from money, but from knowing Jesus—the Prince of Peace. While money can offer a false sense of security, only Christ gives lasting peace that brings rest, reconciliation, and trust. Scripture is full of wisdom about finances, warning us against debt, greed, and the illusion of wealth as safety. Proverbs and the teachings of Jesus highlight a path to financial peace: work diligently, flee debt, give generously, and save with wisdom—not fear. Saving is good stewardship, but it must be held in trust, not control. God calls us to be cheerful givers and faithful stewards, always ready to give or keep according to His purpose.

In this reflective and grounded conversation, we explore the slow, quiet practices that cultivate peace in the home—starting not with strategies or outcomes, but with presence. Drawing from Scripture and the emotional terrain of real family life, we talk tone, posture, and the unseen power of how we show up. The heart of this episode is a deep reckoning with the pressures of parenting, the wounds we carry, and the sacred role of fathers. This isn't about perfection—it's about becoming people of peace, beginning in the living room.

Family can be a source of deep shalom or deep pain. When peace is broken by sin or tragedy, the path back begins with Jesus—our true peace, who invites us to slow down and receive what He freely gives. Scripture guides families toward this peace through mutual honor, loving discipline, and selfless humility. Parents are called not to provoke, children to honor, and all to submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. This kind of humility opposes our flesh but mirrors Jesus' submission and trust in God. When we step away from noise and busyness to sit in God's presence, focusing on what is lovely and pure, His peace begins to restore what's broken.

What happens when our inner world collapses? From personal health struggles to broken relationships, we talk about how biblical peace (shalom) offers more than relief—it offers wholeness. And it starts by removing what creates chaos.

In this new sermon series, Shalom, we explore the biblical path to deep and lasting peace—relational, financial, parental, and sexual. Shalom, the Hebrew word for peace, speaks to a wholeness and harmony that can only come from God. In a culture marked by anxiety, shame, and brokenness, Jesus—our Prince of Peace—offers a way forward. Through His Spirit and Word, we learn to live in step with God's design, where peace is not the absence of conflict, but the presence of God. As we trust in His unchanging character, we begin to walk in a peace that transcends understanding, bringing rest, reconciliation, and intimacy with the Lord.

Divorce is a painful reality that touches many lives—sometimes publicly, sometimes quietly. Scripture acknowledges this pain, and Jesus meets it not with legalism, but with compassion and clarity. In Matthew 19, He points us back to God's heart, offering grace to those carrying the weight of broken relationships. Too often, shame and guilt are added by misread or rigid interpretations of Scripture, but the gospel offers something far deeper: forgiveness, healing, and the transformation of our hearts. Jesus doesn't dismiss sin, but calls us to confront it with mercy. Whether you're navigating divorce or the wounds it leaves behind, there is hope, healing, and a place for you in God's redemptive story.

In this episode of the Living Streams Podcast, CJ and Renee Bergmen dive into the behind-the-scenes of preaching together on marriage, sharing honest reflections on headship, submission, and how theology plays out in real relationships. From early conflict to spiritual formation, they explore what it looks like to grow together, wrestle with calling, and reflect Christ in the everyday messiness of marriage.

Marriage is a mirror that reflects Christ's love for the Church—a sacred design meant to reveal the mystery of the gospel. Like any mirror, it can expose flaws and imperfections, making marriage not just about companionship, but about sanctification. In Ephesians 5, Paul presents a counter-cultural vision of submission and headship—often misunderstood, but deeply rooted in Christlike love and sacrifice. Husbands are called to lay down their lives as Christ did, and wives to submit out of reverence for the Lord, not compulsion. Though we fall short, our hope isn't in each other's perfection, but in Christ, who faithfully redeems and restores broken mirrors.

In this episode of the Living Streams Podcast, Pastors David Stockton and Alec Seekins dive into 1 Corinthians 7 to explore what it means to live with devotion over desire—whether in singleness or marriage. They discuss sex, intimacy, separation, and faithfulness with honesty, grace, and biblical clarity, offering hope and wisdom for every season of life.

In 1 Corinthians 7, Paul responds to the Corinthians' concerns about marriage, singleness, and life after marriage within a morally corrupt culture. He teaches that both marriage and singleness are gifts from God, not based on personal preference but divine calling. The gift of marriage, Paul explains, can lead to practical blessings such as greater peace, protection from sexual immorality, and the potential for a spouse or children to come to faith. He also notes that being in the will of God—whether married or single—leads to less anxiety and greater joy, as we walk in alignment with His grace and purpose.

In this episode, David and Kurt talk about what it means to carry grace—into your home, your marriage, your ministry, and even to the nations. They discuss stories of healing, redemption, and the kind of humble obedience that can transform generations.

Biblical marriage reflects Christ's love for the Church, offering hope and renewal for both married and unmarried hearts. Like a car needing an oil change, alignment, or new shocks, our marriages may need refreshing, realigning, or strengthening through humility, honesty, and support. Genesis shows how marriage mirrors Jesus' sacrificial love—leaving heaven to rescue His bride, the Church. Just as Adam called Eve bone of his bones and flesh of his flesh, Jesus followers are called the bride of Christ and the body of Christ. This deep, redemptive love is why marriage matters, and why all believers should study and honor it as a powerful picture of God's unchanging grace.

In this episode, David, Dalton, and Alec reflect on how Living Streams turned Easter into a month-long season—stretching from Transfiguration to Pentecost—and how that shift brought deeper formation, wonder, and rest into the life of the church.

Pentecost Sunday commemorates the day the Holy Spirit descended upon the early church, fulfilling the promises of Jesus and John the Baptist. After Jesus' resurrection and ascension, the disciples gathered in Jerusalem as instructed. On Pentecost, the Holy Spirit filled them with power, symbolized by tongues of fire, enabling them to boldly spread the gospel—marking the birth of the Christian church. This day reminds believers that the same Spirit lives within them, uniting all in Christ, empowering them for service, and continuing God's promise to all who are called.

In John's account of the resurrection, Mary Magdalene's relentless search for Jesus led her to a miraculous encounter—finding Him more alive and powerful than she could have imagined. While others gave up, Mary's perseverance was rewarded, showing us that if we seek Jesus with all our hearts, we too will find Him—closer, more alive, and more loving than we ever hoped. Scripture promises that if we ask, seek, and knock, God will respond. He's not distant; He's already reaching out to us. Like Mary, when we keep trusting and seeking, we begin to see dead things come to life, sorrow turn to joy, and darkness turn to light. No matter where we are in our journey, His promise stands—He is faithful, and He will meet us.

In this episode, Mark Buckley and Alec Seekins unpack five powerful scenes from Palm Sunday—each revealing something deeper about Jesus' mission, bold faith, and the tension between systems and the Spirit. From borrowed donkeys to cursed fig trees, we explore what it means to trust God in quiet obedience and messy moments.

Matthew 21 recounts Jesus' Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem, His cleansing of the Temple, and a series of parables confronting the religious leaders. Riding a donkey to fulfill prophecy, Jesus is celebrated by crowds expecting a political savior, but His mission is one of humility, peace, and spiritual redemption. He drives out corruption from the Temple, curses a barren fig tree as a symbol of fruitless religion, and delivers parables exposing hypocrisy and foretelling judgment. This chapter highlights Jesus as a humble King whose true triumph is over hearts, not nations, calling His followers to reflect His love, peace, and servanthood.

Suns reporter Dana Scott joined JR to discuss what has led to the disastrous season for the Suns, the buy-in from the fans, what trades could be made this offseason and how the lack of draft picks impacts Phoenix's future.

From glowing clothes to ancient Jewish texts, we explore how spiritual reality impacts the physical world and what that means for us today. It's a rich, honest, and sometimes nerdy conversation about glory, humility, and holding Jesus in our minds with clarity and awe.

40 days before His death and resurrection, Jesus went up a mountain with Peter, James, and John, where He was transfigured—His face and clothes glowing with dazzling light. Moses and Elijah appeared, talking to Jesus about His departure. A voice from a cloud declared that Jesus is the one to listen to, revealing that He fulfilled the law and the prophets perfectly and holds greater authority than Moses and Elijah. This event, known as the Transfiguration, shows Jesus' divine nature and foreshadows His sacrifice at Golgotha. It teaches believers to be transformed into Christ's likeness by engaging with God's Word, resisting temptation, repenting, and living in prayer and worship, laying down our lives for the One who gave His for our salvation.

What if faithfulness looks more like stumbling forward than standing tall? In this episode, we explore the book of Joshua and the way God's people often fall off the path—but get back on with grace.

In this episode, we explore the story of Caleb asking Joshua for his inheritance—land still filled with giants—and what it means to pursue God's promises when they're wrapped in pain, delay, or conflict. Through personal stories and pastoral reflection, we ask what faithfulness looks like when the fulfillment feels far away.

Joshua's life exemplifies obedience to God, leading to victory and peace, unlike the pride and greed that result from self-reliance. In his exhortations, Joshua calls Israel to serve the Lord with sincerity, meaning wholehearted commitment, avoiding compromise, and obeying God's commands fully. Sincerity in both the Old and New Testaments involves authenticity, humility, and a sincere pursuit of holiness, shaped by the Holy Spirit.

In Joshua 14 and 15, Caleb asks Joshua for the land of the giants, which God had promised him 45 years earlier. Despite Israel not yet conquering the hill country, Joshua grants Caleb the land, and Caleb, trusting God, drives out the giants and takes possession of the inheritance. This story reminds us that God has given each of us an inheritance, but it often requires us to clear and cultivate the land, overcoming obstacles such as spiritual rebellion and brokenness, which can manifest as personal struggles like anger, addiction, or pride. Like Caleb, we are called to wholly follow God, trusting His promises and remaining dedicated to Him. Through the work of the Holy Spirit, we can overcome the "giants" in our lives, turning chaos into something fruitful for future generations.

In chapters 1-10 of the book of Joshua, the Israelites have successfully conquered several cities in Canaan, including Jericho, Ai, and Gibeon, and defeated the southern kings. In chapter 11, the northern kings, led by Jabin of Hazor, gather a massive army to fight against Israel. Despite the overwhelming force, God reassures Joshua not to fear, promising victory and instructing him to hamstring the horses and burn the chariots. This act symbolizes trusting in God rather than relying on human strength. While the chapter's language may seem harsh, it reflects God's judgment on the wickedness of the Canaanites. The Israelites' victory marks the fulfillment of God's promises made to Abraham, Moses, and Joshua, bringing them into the promised land. Like Joshua, we face battles in our own lives, whether personal struggles or challenges. Yet, God promises to fight for us, urging us to trust Him, obey His guidance, and believe that His strength will prevail even in our weakness, leading to victory and the fulfillment of His promises.