Podcasts about Following Jesus

God made it possible for us to simply respond to His offer of salvation that was made free to us by the sacrifice of His Son, Jesus. It's not something we dabble in and get out of, it is what we give our whole lives to and never look back.

What happens when God draws unusually near? In this fiery message at Grace City Church during Church Camp, Russel Johnson from The Pursuit Church teaches from Acts 10 (Cornelius & Peter) and unpacks the signs of revival. If you've been praying for awakening, this is your call to respond—revival starts in a person (IN YOU), and it's time to raise the sails because the wind has begun to blow.Support the showThanks for listening! Go to www.StrongerManNation.com for more resources.

Many people followed Jesus. Not all of them were truly His disciples.In this episode, Pastor Jeff Cranston and Tiffany Coker walk through John chapter 6 to examine one of the most challenging truths of the Christian life: discipleship is more than separation from sin. It requires active devotion to Christ.As many followers walked away from Jesus when His teaching became difficult, Scripture reveals three distinct types of disciples: nominal disciples, real disciples, and false disciples. This conversation explores how each group responds to Jesus, why separation without devotion can be spiritually dangerous, and how believers today can honestly examine their own hearts.What We Discussed02:26 Why Biblical Separation Is MisunderstoodBiblical separation is not about isolation or moral superiority. Scripture calls believers to holiness through repentance and obedience, not excuse or compromise, as seen in 1 Peter 1:15–16 and Romans 6.05:22 Separation from Personal SinChristians are called to deal honestly with their own sin through repentance, confession, and intentional turning away, rather than minimizing or justifying sinful patterns.08:20 Why Small Sins Are Spiritually DangerousHidden or “small” sins do not remain contained. Like poison in a well, personal sin affects prayer, spiritual sensitivity, relationships, and a believer's witness.09:54 Separation from Unrepentant BelieversScripture teaches that fellowship should be withheld from those who profess Christ yet persist in unrepentant sin, both to protect the church and to call the individual to repentance, as outlined in 1 Corinthians 5:11.12:41 Why the Church Must Take Sin SeriouslyUnaddressed sin spreads within the church like yeast through dough 1 Corinthians 5:6.13:42 Separation from False TeachersBelievers are commanded to test teaching against Scripture and separate from those who distort the gospel or deny its truth, following the warning of 1 John 4:1.18:31 Separation from the World SystemScripture calls believers to resist the values and priorities of the world that oppose God, choosing spiritual transformation over conformity, as taught in 1 John 2:15 and Romans 12:2.19:43 Set Apart, Not IsolatedBiblical separation doesn't mean withdrawing from people. It means living with distinct loves, loyalties, and standards while remaining engaged, compassionate, and Christlike.“Discipleship is not about perfection. It is about bringing every area of life under the Lordship of Christ.”  – Pastor Jeff CranstonWe love your feedback! If you enjoyed this episode, leave us a review. If you have any questions or comments on today's episode, email me at pastorjeff@lowcountrycc.orgVisit my website https://www.jeffcranston.com and subscribe to my newsletter. Join me on Sunday mornings at LowCountry Community Church. Check in with us on Facebook or Instagram @pastorjeffcranstonRemember, the real power of theology is not only knowing it but applying it. Thanks for listening!

Pastor Josh McPherson, on the fourth night of Church Camp 2026, shares 10 prophetic words for Grace City Church in what he believes is a kairos moment—an uncommon season of spiritual hunger, repentance, and renewed longing for God's presence. He defines prophetic words as timely, biblical, and weighty direction for a specific people, then calls the church to lean in and seek the Lord during this specific moment. This message is a “time capsule” for stewarding what God is doing right now—without manipulating it, but receiving and stewarding it faithfully.Support the showThanks for listening! Go to www.StrongerManNation.com for more resources.

Welcome to 2026. Welcome to New Life and abundant life. Welcome to the 167!Connect with usWebsite: https://www.newlifegardner.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/NewLifeGardner/Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/newlifegardner

The Jesus Way isn't just a belief – it's a way of life. Discover what it really means to follow Jesus daily, walking in His footsteps, loving as He loved, and choosing obedience even when it costs. Discipleship is more than admiration from a distance; it's a call to live differently, move faithfully, and trust Him every step of the way. Following Jesus doesn't just change your direction, it changes you.

What does it really mean to follow Jesus? What is the true cost?In this episode, Pastors Josh McPherson, Kyle McMullen, and Adam James unpack "The Consecrated Life" Sermon Series, and why fasting is a foundational Christian practice.... not an optional one. From biblical grounding to practical rhythms, this conversation explores how fasting weakens the flesh, strengthens the spirit, and recenters our love for Christ. This isn't about dieting or religious performance—it's about surrender, sanctification, and living all-in for King Jesus.Get the free 21-day prayer guide for "The Consecrated Life" here: chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://storage2.snappages.site/62Q57T/assets/files/Consecrate_Prayer_Guide_web.pdfCheck out the current sermon series: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RL7cavdmPgQ&list=PLptTyphw8iGNYXyMGDL-0TzVRYbKIbb2uSupport the showThanks for listening! Go to www.StrongerManNation.com for more resources.

Worship with us 9 + 11am 390 N 400 E Bountiful, UT 84010 https://flourishinggrace.org/plan-you... In this message from Luke 17:20–37, Pastor Benjer invites us to rethink what it truly means to live under the reign of Jesus. As the Pharisees and disciples question when and where the kingdom of God will appear, Jesus redirects their focus to a far more personal and challenging question, who is king in your life. This sermon explores how the kingdom of God is not primarily something we observe in dramatic moments, but something we experience wherever King Jesus is truly honored. Through powerful illustrations and thoughtful biblical teaching, Pastor Benjer shows how easy it is to treat Jesus like a mascot who inspires us from the sidelines instead of a king who shapes every part of our lives. Drawing from Jesus' words about Noah, Lot, and the coming of the Son of Man, this message challenges us to consider how faithfully we live for Christ in the ordinary, everyday rhythms of life. Following Jesus is not only about extraordinary acts of faith but about daily surrender, obedience, and trust. The sermon emphasizes that the kingdom of God grows quietly yet powerfully through small acts of faithfulness, as we choose to pursue Christ in our homes, our workplaces, our relationships, and our communities. This teaching also highlights the deep connection between longing for Christ's return and living faithfully in the present. We prepare for the future fulfillment of God's kingdom by honoring Jesus as King today. Pastor Benjer reminds us that the value of a life is measured not by what we hold onto, but by what we are willing to give away for the sake of Christ. True discipleship means choosing, again and again, to place our lives under the loving authority of Jesus, trusting that His rule brings freedom, purpose, and hope. Whether you are exploring faith, returning to church, or seeking to grow deeper in your walk with God, this message speaks directly to the heart of what it means to follow Jesus in a culture filled with distractions and competing loyalties. If you have ever wrestled with how the kingdom of God fits into everyday life, this sermon offers clarity, encouragement, and a renewed call to live fully for Christ. Watch and be challenged to move beyond seeing Jesus as a symbol of faith and begin living with Him as the true King of your life.

Following Jesus is more than believing—it's living! ABOUT THE MESSAGEIn part 1 of The Way To Live, Pastor Mark Stermer helps us discover that faith was never meant to be passive, but visible through lives devoted to doing good. Saved by grace and created for good works, we are called to serve, love, and respond to the needs around us in a way that points people to God. When faith moves into action, people don't just hear about God—they see Him. When faith moves into action, light shines, lives are changed, and the world sees real Christianity. ABOUT JESUSIf you want to learn more about who Jesus is and what it means to have a relationship with Him, we would love to help you on that journey: https://www.thechurch.fm/jesus For a deeper dive into The Word of God on a daily basis check out our Free Ancient Paths Daily Devotional: https://www.thechurch.fm/ancient-paths WHO WE AREWe believe that the goal of every Christian is To Be Conformed Into the Image of Jesus Christ, and a relationship with Jesus as well as being involved in a healthy church community are both important to achieving that goal. Find out more about who we are and all that we do at https://www.thechurch.fm/about.We would love to meet you in person! Find our locations and service times here https://www.thechurch.fm/campuses and download our smartphone app here https://pushpay.com/get?handle=saintamantcampus&source=external to access video content, daily devotionals, updates on what is going on at The Church, and so much more.To get connected here at The Church International simply visit us here https://www.thechurch.fm/connect-track and we will walk you through all of the life giving opportunities that we have to connect with you and your family.We want to give a special thanks to everyone who donates to what God is doing through this ministry. If you would like to partner with us through generosity and giving you can do so at https://www.thechurch.fm/give-online. SOCIAL MEDIAThe Church International: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thechurchinter/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thechurchinternational/ Website: https://www.TheChurch.FMPastor Mark: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MarkAStermer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mark_stermerPastor Cindy: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cindy.stermer.9 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cindy_stermer

Sermon by Pastor Scott Edinger

Fasting isn't a diet—it's a discipline that prepares your heart to draw near to Jesus. In this message from The Consecrated Life, Pastor Josh McPherson teaches from Matthew 6, showing that Jesus assumes His followers will fast, warns against religious performance, and promises the Father rewards what's done in secret. You'll learn what biblical fasting is (and isn't), the main types of fast in Scripture, and how to start a 1, 3, or 5-day fast as we lean into hear from God.Get a vision for your life... FREE Resource: https://mailchi.mp/strongermannation.com/get-a-life-visionSupport the showThanks for listening! Go to www.StrongerManNation.com for more resources.

What does it mean to truly abide in Christ? Hudson Taylor's life answers this through his deep reliance on Jesus. Once striving in his own strength, Taylor came to realize that fruitfulness flows only from resting in Christ. His life bore lasting impact as he founded the China Inland Mission and helped bring the gospel to thousands. His story reminds us that the Christian life is not about what we do for Christ, but what He does through us as we abide in Him.

Have you ever wondered what kind of faith moves Jesus to action? Gleaning from Matthew 8 and 9, Pastor Ricky Ortiz identifies a very simple phrase Jesus spoke that reveals the secret to breakthrough faith. 

Encounter is not the destination—it's an invitation. Following Jesus requires surrender, reordered desires, and a willingness to leave what's familiar behind.ESSENTIALS WEEK 2 - FOLLOW JESUSThis message builds on the truth that every encounter with God leads to a choice. While culture emphasizes attendance and convenience, Jesus calls people into apprenticeship—an all-of-life following that reshapes the heart before it reshapes behavior.Jesus consistently asked questions that exposed desire because He understood something deeply true about human nature: we follow what we want most. Our money, calendars, relationships, and attention all reveal what truly has our hearts.Through the calling of Peter, Andrew, James, and John, we see that following Jesus requires leaving our nets behind—not sinful things, but familiar ones. Identity, security, comfort, and control can quietly become anchors that keep us from fully following Him. The greatest threat to discipleship is not rebellion—it's comfort.Jesus makes the cost of following Him clear. To follow Him means denying ourselves, taking up our cross, and reordering our lives around His leadership. This is not self-hatred, but self-surrender. Jesus doesn't ask for a compartment of our lives—He asks for first place.The good news is that Jesus doesn't discard who we are; He redeems it. When He calls fishermen, He doesn't erase their skills—He redirects them. When we follow Jesus, our desires change, freedom grows, and impact follows.Every encounter brings us to the same question: What do you want?

Have you ever had to find your way through a thick fog? Will you let this promise from God cut through the haze? “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.” Jesus promises to guide you if you're willing to listen. He will walk the road with you if you ask Him. He laid down His life to bring you back to God, and He rose from the dead to offer you unending life. Following Jesus looks like—praying before deciding, inviting God to speak to you, and taking the next step that He shows you. Do you want this friendship? Pray with me: “Jesus, I've made my own plans long enough. Thank You for the cross and for Your love for me. I put my life in Your hands. Teach me to listen to Your voice and walk in step with You. Amen.” Always remember, there is hope with God. Scripture Reference: Proverbs 3:5-6 radio.hopewithgod.com

Life was never meant to be lived alone. From the very beginning, God designed His people to grow, serve, and succeed in community.In this message, we look at the early church in Acts and discover why meaningful relationships weren't optional, they were foundational. The church didn't grow because of programs or buildings. It grew because people devoted themselves to life together. They gathered in homes, prayed together, shared meals, served one another, and walked through life side by side.This sermon challenges us to move beyond attendance and into real connection. Spiritual growth, care, and lasting impact happen best in community. If you want to grow in your faith and experience the kind of church life God intended, it starts with getting in a group.Following Jesus is personal, but it was never meant to be private. Life is better together.Connect with us!Missioncity.church

Following Jesus | Mark 1 | Foundations by Pastor Dan DeBell

Pastor Rodney taught that following Jesus means trusting Him fully—not leaning on our own understanding, but surrendering our hearts, humbling our pride, and honoring God with every part of our lives, as Proverbs 3 calls us to do. Because Jesus is completely trustworthy, true trust shows up not just in words, but in how we submit our hearts, receive correction, and put God first with our resources and priorities. Listen and be challenged. Support the show

“The Triumphal Entry”Mark 11:1-11Having recently completed our series “None Like Jesus” let's continue to “Behold Him” by embarking on a new study through the Gospel of Mark. Mark's Gospel is the shortest of the four Gospels and it is action-packed from start to finish – as evidenced by the word “immediately” used over 40 times. Mark wrote to believers, probably Roman believers, who were no strangers to persecution. And he wanted to disciple his readers to be strong in their faith by encouraging them to look to their Mighty Messiah, the Son of God, who remained steadfastly faithful even while becoming their Suffering Servant who died for them. Mark's Gospel is a call to all believers to fearlessly “Follow Jesus” because they can trust Him completely.

Pastor Davidson reminded us that God has called us to live as a spiritual people, walking in the Spirit so we can overcome the world. Through an everyday relationship with Him, we gain strength, power, and a deeper understanding of who we are and whose we are. Following Jesus is a daily choice, denying ourselves, picking up our cross, and fully surrendering to God's will. One powerful way to do this is through fasting, which helps us overcome the flesh and become more sensitive to the Holy Spirit. When the Spirit leads, breakthrough follows. As the Church, we are entering a season that requires full surrender. Prayer and fasting stir our spiritual senses and prepare us for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. God moves in a praying, seeking, hungry church. Let us pursue Him with humility, expectation, and faith, trusting that He will speak and move in powerful ways as we prepare ourselves and our hearts for the Daniel Fast. Scriptures Referenced 1 John 4:4 Revelation 1:10 Revelation 3:21 Romans 8:13–17 Matthew 9:14–15 John 6:63–66 Acts 1:8 2 Corinthians 11:27 Psalm 35:13 Acts 10:30–31 Luke 2:37 Acts 13:1–3 John 4:31–34 Matthew 17:21 Ephesians 6:12

What does it look like to embody love? Many of us want to love our neighbors… but we're busy, overwhelmed, or unsure if our effort even matters. This week, Yesuto wrestles with those obstacles and reminds us that faith without action is dead. Following Jesus means centering the vulnerable, choosing humility, and stepping into real service.

Hard times are unavoidable—but they are never meaningless.In this message from James 1:1–18, we begin a new teaching series through the book of James by addressing a question every believer eventually faces: How do we endure when life gets hard? Drawing from both Scripture and real-life stories, this sermon reminds us that God uses trials to produce endurance—and endurance to form maturity in us.James writes to believers who were scattered and suffering under persecution, yet he opens with a surprising command: “Consider it a great joy” when trials come. Not because pain is good—but because God is at work through it. Endurance, or grit, is essential not only for life but for spiritual growth. Following Jesus is a marathon, not a sprint.In this message, we explore how God develops endurance in us and why perspective and faith are critical when hardship comes. We also see how wisdom from God, eternal hope, and trust in His provision anchor us when circumstances feel overwhelming.✔ Why trials are inevitable—and purposeful✔ How endurance shapes spiritual maturity✔ Where to find wisdom when life feels confusing✔ Why faith and perspective matter in suffering✔ How eternal hope sustains us through painWhether you're walking through grief, uncertainty, loss, or opposition, this message offers biblical encouragement and practical hope rooted in God's promises.

Scripture References:Acts 7:58–8:3Acts 9:1–19Acts 26:13–18Matthew 5:43–48Psalm 83:13–16Ephesians 3:18–19

January 8, 2026 Gen. 8:1-9:19; Ps. 4:4-8; Prov. 2:6-15; Matt. 4:12-22

Does life ever feel to you like a heavy backpack that you just cannot set down? If you feel that way, if that's what life is to you, listen to this wonderful invitation from Jesus: “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” Following Jesus looks like handing Him each burden, one by one, and learning His gentle way. Do you want that kind of rest? You can receive it now. Pray with me, “Jesus, I am exhausted. Thank You for carrying away my sin and my fear. I give it to You, happily, take the weight—my past, my worries, my plans. Teach me Your gentle way, and give my soul real rest.” Put Your trust in Jesus. He will meet you right where you are. Always remember, there is hope with God. Scripture Reference: Matthew 11:28 radio.hopewithgod.com

Following Jesus doesn't turn us inward—it sends us outward. As we center our lives on Christ and allow the Spirit to form us, God shapes each of us to reflect His love in the world. This week, we explore how discipleship naturally leads to outreach and how every believer is invited to participate in God's work of renewal.⚫CONNECT WITH US:

Following Jesus has never been the cool option—and that's something our kids need to be ready for. In this One Question episode, Adam and Chelsea talk about how to disciple kids who aren't ruled by popularity, approval, or the fear of man. They unpack how to make being “different” normal and why closeness to God matters more than being liked. Follow Us:Instagram | Facebook | WebsiteEditing and support by The Good Podcast Co. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Following Jesus means believing in the things he said— even the hard things. In this sermon, we look at one of the most difficult teachings he gave to his followers and how it can bring us into the freedom we most desire. Key Verses: Matthew 16:24-25

In this stirring new season of the Commands of Christ Podcast, we move from principle to practice—tracing the commands of Jesus through the lives of men and women who lived them out with passion, humility, and dependence on Him. Christ's Commands in Action invites us into the stories of ordinary individuals throughout church history who, by God's grace, lived extraordinary lives marked by obedience to the Word of Christ. From well-known names like Hudson Taylor and George Müller to lesser-known saints whose quiet faith shaped generations, each biographical sketch highlights a specific command of Jesus, showing what it looks like to put His Word into action. More than historical recollection, this season is a call to follow Christ as others have before us—not by exalting people, but by glorifying the power and presence of God working through flawed, but faithful vessels. These testimonies build our faith, exalt the risen Christ, and offer practical encouragement for how we too can walk as His disciples today. As we explore a new life each week, we'll be reminded that the same Christ who empowered them is alive in us—and that His commands are not just to be studied, but lived.

In Part I of this two-part series, we focused on the magnificent gift that we as Christians are given when we accept the redemption for our sins available through Jesus' sacrifice. We talked about the magnitude of this gift and how true disciples of Jesus are also required to give back as a result of receiving this gift. According to Scripture, the action of “giving back” is accomplished through our responsibility to reverently care for it. This care is clearly identified by how we choose to live our lives as genuine followers of Christ. Fortunately, we have clear and concise instructions waiting for us in the Scriptures! Part I established the “required care focuses” from Romans 12:1—recognition, awe, gratitude, humility, intentional self‑denial, adopting a new mindset and full engagement. These attitudes prepare believers for the deeper work of transformation highlighted in the next verse. Romans 12:2 introduces two essential components of discipleship: NOT conforming to the world Being transformed by the renewing of the mind. Additionally, we suggest Christian non‑conformity has two "levels:" We must be OUT of alignment with the world's values We must walk away from our own internal habits, desires and emotional patterns. Jesus modeled this non‑conformity through his kingdom‑focused life, and his disciples were called to leave behind their former identities and occupations to follow him. The result: a "new creation" Transformation in Christ cannot begin until non‑conformity has intentionally been chosen. 2 Corinthians 5:14–17 and Philippians 3:13–15 reveal that transformation involves seeing others—and even Christ himself—from a spiritual perspective rather than a fleshly one. The Greek word for “transform” (metamorphoō) indicates a complete change of form, illustrated by the transfiguration of Jesus and the believer's gradual change “from glory to glory” through the spirit. This transformation results in becoming a “new creation,” something entirely fresh and never before existing. This process is lifelong, requiring perseverance, repeated decisions and reliance on God's strength. Ultimately, transformation leads to receiving a “new name” and full acceptance by God, symbolized in Revelation 2:17. True discipleship is radical, intentional, and deeply rewarding, culminating in participation in God's future work of blessing all humanity. A Few Key Takeaways True transformation begins only after intentional non‑conformity to the world. Discipleship requires daily self‑denial, a renewed mindset and full engagement. Transformation is a gradual, spirit‑driven process that reshapes identity and purpose. True believers become a “new creation,” ultimately receiving God's full approval and a symbolic “new name.”

Spiritual growth doesn't happen by accident. Just like our physical health requires regular checkups, our spiritual lives need honest evaluation and intentional care.In this message, we're invited to pause and examine where we truly are with God. Using Scripture as our guide, we walk through key areas of spiritual health including salvation, time with God, worship, community, serving, and generosity. The goal isn't guilt or comparison. The goal is growth.This sermon challenges us to ask better questions as we begin a new year. Not “Did I attend?” or “Did I look spiritual?” but “Am I actually growing?” Following Jesus means regularly examining our lives and choosing practices that help us mature in wisdom, faith, and obedience.If you want 2026 to be different spiritually, it starts with an honest self-check and a willingness to grow on purpose.Connect with us!Missioncity.church

Send us a textIn this Healing the City podcast, Pastor Eric interviews Tom Caylor about growing up as a missionary kid, his years in boarding school, and the moments that shaped him along the way. Tom shares how he met Kelley, his wife, and how music, especially playing piano, has been part of his story. The conversation is honest and grounded, moving from memory to meaning without getting stuck in nostalgia. Tom also reflects on what it looks like to follow Jesus in real life, with clarity and humility. Support the show"Healing the City" is a profound and dynamic weekly podcast that dives into the complexities of creating healthier communities. Featuring the voices and perspectives of the esteemed members of the Village Church, each episode is thoughtfully crafted to address the challenges and opportunities for meaningful change in our cities. With a holistic approach to healing, the podcast explores a wide range of topics, from soul care and spiritual direction to mental health and community involvement. It provides listeners with insightful and thought-provoking perspectives on the issues facing our cities, as well as practical steps they can take to make a difference. Join hosts Corey Gilchrist, Eric Cepin, Ashley Cousineau, Jessica Dennes, Michael Cousineau, Mark Crawford, and Susan Cepin as they navigate the complexities of our communities with wisdom, grace, and a deep commitment to positive change. Through their engaging discussions, listeners will be inspired to become active participants in healing the city and creating a brighter, healthier future for all. The Village Churchvillagersonline@gmail.comThe Village Church meets at 10a and 5p on Sundays1926 N Cloverland Ave, Tucson AZ 85712Mail: PO Box 30790, Tucson AZ 85751

Things can change over time. Technology, our bodies, and even language. But one thing that hasn't changed is what following Jesus looks like.

Epiphany is about revelationJesus shows us what God is like through love, mercy, and humility.God's light often comes in unexpected placesThe Magi found God not in power, but in vulnerability.Not all light leads to lifeConsumerism, fear, and division promise brightness but leave us empty.The light of Christ reveals and frees usIt uncovers who we truly are and invites us to live honestly and whole.Every person bears sacred worthBecause God became human, every neighbor shines with dignity and value.Following Jesus changes our directionLike the Magi, encountering Christ means we do not go home the same way.Our calling is to be the lightThe world will know God's love by how we love one another.

Scripture ReferencesNumbers 22:5–31Deuteronomy 2:9Deuteronomy 23:42 Peter 2:15 Primary SourcesWenham, Gordon J. Numbers: An Introduction and Commentary. Vol. 4. Tyndale Old Testament Commentaries. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1981.Wiersbe, Warren W. Be Counted. “Be” Commentary Series. Colorado Springs, CO: Chariot Victor Pub., 1999.Matthews, Victor Harold, Mark W. Chavalas, and John H. Walton. The IVP Bible Background Commentary: Old Testament. Electronic ed. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 2000.

Sermon by Pastor Scott Edinger

Romans, Romans CH 2, Apostle Paul, Judgement, Judge Not, Righteous Judgement, Goodness, God is Good, Repentance, Long suffering, Knowledge, Following Jesus, Servant, Truth, Father, Son, Eternal Life, Spirit, Soul, Body, Christian, Born Again, Believer, Atheist, nonbeliever, God, Son of God, Theology, Providence, Foreknowledge, Prophecy, Wisdom, Faith, Love, Trinity, Holy, Spirit, Genesis, Spirit of the Lord, Spiritual, Conscience, Prayer, Grace, New Testament, Old Testament, Salvation, Forgiveness, Gospel, Holy Spirit, Lord, Jesus, Pastor, Mercy, God's Word, Bible, Disciples, Ministry, Messiah, Heavenly Father, Hebrew, Preaching, Teaching, Jew, Gentile, Church, Calvary Kaneohe

Following Jesus by CBC of Savannah

As we begin a new year at Integrity Church, this standalone message calls us to start with the right foundation. From Luke 14:25–33, Mature and Multiply challenges us to honestly examine who—or what—has preeminence in our lives. Jesus makes it clear that following Him is not about adding Him to our schedules or priorities, but about surrendering everything to Him. This sermon invites us to count the cost of discipleship, reject half-hearted faith, and embrace a life where Jesus is not merely part of our lives, but our life. As we look ahead to a new year, this message sets the tone for growing in spiritual maturity and multiplying our lives for God's mission.For more information about Integrity Church, visit our website, http://liveintegritychurch.org Connect with us on social media throughout the week to stay up to date on events and things happening at Integrity! Instagram: @integrity_church Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liveintegrity/

Pastor Rodney taught that true joy isn't accidental—it comes from choosing the path of Jesus, surrounding yourself with people who are pursuing Him, and consistently feeding your soul with God's Word. Drawing from Psalm 1, he reminded us that while sin offers temporary pleasure, following Jesus leads to a rooted, fruitful, and enduring joy that lasts forever. Listen and be challenged. Support the show

The Gospel of Jesus is a call from Jesus to follow Jesus. Sermon 19:47

In Colossians 2:6–10, Paul challenges us to guard the spiritual ground of our lives by remaining consistent, avoiding distractions, and living in the fullness that is only found in Christ. Following Jesus is not a one-time decision but a daily walk—growth doesn't come from how strong we start, but from how consistent we remain. When our roots go deep through steady time with God, His voice becomes clear; He isn't silent, we're often just distracted or disconnected. Paul warns that the enemy rarely uses obvious evil, but instead subtle distractions—hollow ideas, misplaced priorities, and even people or situations that pull us off course. If we're not careful, we can spend so much time watching everyone else's race that we forget to run our own. But when we choose to guard our ground—being rooted in Christ, removing distractions, and staying faithful—we discover the truth that real fullness isn't found in relationships, abilities, or achievements, but in Christ alone. In Him, nothing is missing, and nothing else is needed.

The new year can bring the hope of a fresh start… or the dread of more of the same.  In this first episode of the year, Dan Allender and Rachael Clinton Chen name what many of us are already feeling: life feels heavy, noisy, and hard to keep up with. They talk about the "stone in the shoe" of modern life—how distraction, overwhelm, and unresolved trauma slowly wear us down—and share practical ways to respond. That might look like stepping back from constant media, creating gentle daily rhythms of prayer, worship, and Scripture, or using journaling and writing to slow your thoughts and reconnect with what matters most. At the heart of the conversation is a simple but challenging invitation: to stay awake to suffering without losing hope, and to let love, humility, and courage shape how we live. Reflecting on Romans 12, we're invited to resist chaos and despair and instead lean into the kind of formation that only comes from following Jesus. This episode is about 40 minutes long. After listening, consider taking a few extra minutes (maybe even more than a few) to reflect on how you want to enter the new year: more grounded, more aware, and more spiritually centered. As Dan says in closing, "It would be great if it's a happy new Year… but may it be one in which our lives are more formed in Jesus." ===== You can find transcripts, show notes, and more for each episode at: theallendercenter.org/podcast To become a supporter of the Allender Center Podcast, visit: https://theallendercenter.org/2025/11/podcast-support/

Starting the New Year with Jesus reshapes our priorities, renews our focus, and grounds our lives in lasting hope rather than fleeting resolutions. Rooted in Matthew 22:37, this devotional invites believers to begin the year by loving God fully—heart, soul, and mind—choosing spiritual devotion over worldly pursuits and discovering the abundant life Jesus promises. Highlights The most meaningful New Year’s resolution is deepening your relationship with Jesus. Centering your life on Christ brings greater joy, clarity, and spiritual stability. Material success and worldly goals cannot satisfy the soul like Christ can. Starting the year with Jesus means trusting Him with struggles, grief, and uncertainty. Following Jesus leads to protection, comfort, and a fuller life rooted in His love. Loving God above all else realigns our hearts and reveals where our true allegiance lies. Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: Starting the New Year with Jesus By Vivian Bricker Bible Reading:“Jesus replied: ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind’” (Matthew 22:37). As the New Year approaches, many of us consider the New Year's resolutions we want to make. Various resolutions can draw our attention, such as weight loss, getting organized, or switching careers. While all of these are common New Year's resolutions, the greatest resolution we can make is to start the year with Jesus, cultivate our relationship with Him, and faithfully follow Him. Developing a stronger relationship with Jesus throughout the year will prove beneficial not only for the present year but also for all years to come. While we will not be completely immune from problems, our lives will become better and more focused on the Lord. The more our lives are centered around Jesus, the more joyful we will be. Soon, we will see that materialism and the things of the world do not fulfill us. They are but empty promises that lead us away from the Lord. We don’t need to chase after these things or follow them. Since we know Jesus as our Lord and Savior, we should strive to nurture our relationship with Him. This New Year could be the perfect start. Consider what you are struggling with and the help that Jesus can offer. Maybe you are battling a chronic illness or facing the death of a loved one. Give these matters over to Him and trust Him with the New Year. It can be easy to think that this year will be just as terrible as the year prior, but we need to remember that we are making a change. The change from living in accordance with Jesus rather than with the world will prove to be glorious. Protection, safety, and comfort will always surround us. Jesus does not want us to start another year without Him. He wants us to walk with Him and to trust Him. By making this decision, we can truly start living the most whole life that Jesus died for us to have (John 10:10). Intersecting Faith & Life: When Jesus was asked what the greatest commandment is, He replied, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind” (Matthew 22:37). By doing this, we will be able to live this New Year with our hearts focused on the Lord. Rather than loving the things of this world, we need to change the narrative and choose to love Him. Challenge yourself and see if the Lord is truly your top priority. Is He the one you want to please, or is it yourself? As we enter the upcoming year, we need to examine our hearts and ask ourselves these challenging questions. By answering these questions honestly, we will be able to see where our allegiance lies. If a person has discovered they have not truly placed faith in the Lord yet, they can choose to trust in Him today. This can be done by believing that Jesus died for your sins, was buried, and rose again (1 Corinthians 15:1-4; Romans 10:9-11). If you believe this, you will have eternal life, forgiveness, and salvation. With this upcoming year, take the opportunity to start the year with Jesus. Choose to faithfully follow Him and love Him throughout every storm of life. Some days will be harder than others, yet the love the Lord has for us knows no bounds (Romans 8:37-39). Since the Lord loves us in this way, we need to love Him too and focus on serving Him. What are your New Year's resolutions? Are any of them centered around Jesus? What would it look like to follow Jesus rather than the world this upcoming year? Dear Lord, please forgive me for focusing on the world rather than You in previous years. I’m choosing to start this year with You and to keep my eyes focused on You. During this upcoming year, help me to fully love You with all my heart, soul, and mind. You are completely worthy of all my love, and I’m sorry I have been far from You for so long. In Your Name, I pray, Amen. Further Reading: Luke 9:23-24 John 8:12 John 14:15-31 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.