Podcasts about life groups

This week in our Free: Living in the Abundance of Jesus series, Community Life Director Casey Mock shared how we experience the abundance of Jesus through community. We were reminded that we were never meant to do life alone—we build deep bonds, grow together, encourage one another, and become strengthened through God's Word and prayer. Life Groups help us stay connected, grow in faith, and walk through every season together. If you're not in a Life Group, there is a place for you—join a Life Group and find your people!

What does it look like for our worship together on Sunday to become a life we live together every day? In this message from our Worship Together series, we explore what it means to follow Jesus together; not just by attending church, but by becoming part of the community God designed His church to be. Looking at Romans 12:3–8, we see how each person has a unique role and gift, and how we need one another to live out our faith. You'll also hear from people at Cibolo Creek about their experiences in Life Groups, the challenges that initially kept them from joining, and how taking that step created deeper relationships, spiritual growth, accountability, and support. Our faith is personal, but not private. We belong to Christ, and we belong to one another. Follow Jesus Together.

Send us Fan MailTemptation is not just a “willpower problem.” It is a pattern, and it targets the same few places in every human heart. We go to 1 John 2 to name those patterns clearly: the desires of the flesh, the desires of the eyes, and the pride of life, then we get honest about how those desires show up in real life through habits, stress, and hidden compromises.  Gage Lee joins me to share part of his story, including what changed when he stopped fleeing from the feeling and started bringing the struggle into the light. We talk about surrendering the whole life to Jesus, not just the parts that look acceptable, and why Christian community, encouragement, and wise counsel can be the difference between repeating a cycle and finally breaking it. We also wrestle with the sobering truth that our choices can invite others into sin, and how God can redeem even the wake we leave behind.  Pastor Celeste Brown shares a powerful example of a “socially accepted” temptation: sarcasm and the cutting tongue. Her story is a reminder that spiritual growth often looks like everyday obedience, especially when we want to justify our words. From there we look at Jesus in Matthew 4 and how he answers spiritual attack with Scripture, plus the promise of 1 Corinthians 10:13 that God provides a way of escape. We end with practical steps you can use immediately: develop the mind of Christ, pay attention to your location and triggers, and take action before the moment makes the choice for you.  If this helped you, subscribe for more, share it with a friend who needs strength today, and leave a review so more people can find hope and freedom from temptation.Cornerstonehttps://www.cornerstoneaz.org/Follow Jesushttps://www.cornerstoneaz.org/follow-...Life Groups https://www.cornerstoneaz.org/life-gr...Giving https://cornerstoneaz.churchcenter.co...Church Center App - Download then add Cornerstone Christian Center in Avondale, AZiOShttps://itunes.apple.com/us/app/my-ch...Android https://play.google.com/store/apps/de...----Instagram   cornerstoneaz  Facebook  cornerstoneaz.org  Twitter  cornerstoneaz.org

ABOUT HIGHPOINT CHURCHHighPoint Church is an exciting and dynamic church in the West Orlando area (Ocoee, Windermere, Winter Garden, Clermont and MetroWest). Come experience Real Faith and Real Life every Sunday! Service times are 10:00am and 1:00pm (español) in person and Livestream. Life Groups meet throughout the week as well.

Co-Hosts Josh Mitchell and Evan Semanco are joined by Life Group Coordinator Amber McDonnold and Producer Jordan Phillips to talk all things Life Groups! Life Groups are small groups that meet during the week, and are the best way to make a big church feel small. Amber shares about all the Life Groups that are happening this fall, features some brand new groups like a bike riding group and blended families, and long time podcast listeners will love the new song from Amber's Greatest Hits. Join us live each Monday on Facebook at 3:30 pm via The Simple Church Facebook Page to ask your questions in real time, or email us Podcast@thesimplechurch.tv. LINKS FROM THE EPISODE Full Message from Sunday Find a Life Group Open Eyes at The Red River Revel Oct 9 The Do Good Store The Brine  Voluntour September 27th Seldom Animated Bible Stories Amber's New #1 Hit Life Group Song Email Prayer@thesimplechurch.tv Download The Simple Church App If you have feedback for the podcast, have a guest suggestion of who we should talk to next, or just want to chat, e-mail us Podcast@thesimplechurch.tv.   You can also find out more about the Simple Church at www.theSimpleChurch.tv.

Send us Fan MailA lot of us say we've forgiven, but the truth shows up in what we keep replaying. If the first thing you see in your mind is still the hurt, the betrayal, the church drama, or the family conflict, it's like you've taped the worst “Polaroids” of your life to the mirror and you're forced to stare at them every day. We go after that head-on, because God didn't create us to carry bitterness and call it normal.We open Scripture in Matthew 6 and follow the thread Jesus makes impossible to ignore: forgiveness is a hinge point in our relationship with God. We also read Mark 11, Luke 17, and Luke 6, and we get honest about how hard it is to forgive when you feel like you're “losing ground” or when you've been keeping score. We talk about confession, spiritual freedom, and why unforgiveness blinds us and stalls our direction.Pastor Celeste Brown joins Pastor Jason Brown to share a personal story from her childhood about anger at home, a moment at youth camp, and a “brick wall” that had to come down one brick at a time. Her phrase “pre-forgive what's coming” hits like a gut check, especially if you're walking back into a situation that may not change quickly. We also bring it into everyday life, including marriage, communication, and the daily choice to extend grace the way we want grace.If you're ready to drop the bricks, pray with us and take a real step toward healing from unforgiveness. Subscribe, share this with a friend who needs freedom, and leave a review with the biggest takeaway you're applying this week.Cornerstonehttps://www.cornerstoneaz.org/Follow Jesushttps://www.cornerstoneaz.org/follow-...Life Groups https://www.cornerstoneaz.org/life-gr...Giving https://cornerstoneaz.churchcenter.co...Church Center App - Download then add Cornerstone Christian Center in Avondale, AZiOShttps://itunes.apple.com/us/app/my-ch...Android https://play.google.com/store/apps/de...----Instagram   cornerstoneaz  Facebook  cornerstoneaz.org  Twitter  cornerstoneaz.org

ABOUT HIGHPOINT CHURCHHighPoint Church is an exciting and dynamic church in the West Orlando area (Ocoee, Windermere, Winter Garden, Clermont and MetroWest). Come experience Real Faith and Real Life every Sunday! Service times are 10:00am and 1:00pm (español) in person and Livestream. Life Groups meet throughout the week as well.

ABOUT HIGHPOINT CHURCHHighPoint Church is an exciting and dynamic church in the West Orlando area (Ocoee, Windermere, Winter Garden, Clermont and MetroWest). Come experience Real Faith and Real Life every Sunday! Service times are 10:00am and 1:00pm (español) in person and Livestream. Life Groups meet throughout the week as well.

In a self-oriented world, the solution isn't to look out for yourself; the solution is to find your true self in community with God's people!

As we launch our new season of Life Groups, Pastor Ethan and Pastor Danny team up to share about how we can truly be a church that follows Jesus together.

Send us Fan MailMoney can feel like a scoreboard, a safety net, or a source of constant stress. We get honest about that pressure and then put it under the light of Scripture: Jesus says we can't serve God and money, and that where our treasure goes, our heart follows. That's why this conversation isn't just about dollars and cents, it's about discipleship, freedom, and learning how to live with “mastery over money” instead of letting money master us.You'll hear a powerful testimony from Joel about learning to tithe while living paycheck to paycheck, moving from net to gross giving, and watching God provide in unexpected ways. Pastor Celeste then brings the practical side, breaking down why a budget matters, how it helps you live within your means, and why planning reduces stress and builds long-term stability. We also talk through debt, the wisdom of counting the cost before big purchases, and why margin matters if we want to say yes when God prompts generosity.Along the way we ground everything in key passages like Matthew 6, Malachi 3, Luke 14, Matthew 25, and Luke 12, and we point to helpful resources like Financial Peace University for anyone trying to get traction with debt payoff and biblical financial stewardship. We close with an invitation to put your trust in Jesus and take a real next step toward a healthier life.Subscribe for more practical, Bible-based conversations, share this with a friend who feels stuck with money, and leave a review to help more people find the show. What's one financial habit you want to change next?Cornerstonehttps://www.cornerstoneaz.org/Follow Jesushttps://www.cornerstoneaz.org/follow-...Life Groups https://www.cornerstoneaz.org/life-gr...Giving https://cornerstoneaz.churchcenter.co...Church Center App - Download then add Cornerstone Christian Center in Avondale, AZiOShttps://itunes.apple.com/us/app/my-ch...Android https://play.google.com/store/apps/de...----Instagram   cornerstoneaz  Facebook  cornerstoneaz.org  Twitter  cornerstoneaz.org

ABOUT HIGHPOINT CHURCHHighPoint Church is an exciting and dynamic church in the West Orlando area (Ocoee, Windermere, Winter Garden, Clermont and MetroWest). Come experience Real Faith and Real Life every Sunday! Service times are 10:00am and 1:00pm (español) in person and Livestream. Life Groups meet throughout the week as well.

ABOUT HIGHPOINT CHURCHHighPoint Church is an exciting and dynamic church in the West Orlando area (Ocoee, Windermere, Winter Garden, Clermont and MetroWest). Come experience Real Faith and Real Life every Sunday! Service times are 10:00am and 1:00pm (español) in person and Livestream. Life Groups meet throughout the week as well.

Send us Fan MailChaos rarely starts with one huge mistake. More often, it grows out of drifting, rushing, and making decisions without clarity. We're talking about “direction over chaos” and the difference it makes when we go to God for guidance before we choose, not after we're stuck cleaning up the mess. If you've been fighting for control, second-guessing everything, or feeling spiritually scattered, this conversation is built to help you find a steadier path.  We open the Bible and lean into the promise that God lights our darkness. We connect the practice of prayer to peace, then peace to wise decision making. Along the way, we wrestle honestly with the temptation to “hand God the controller” and then grab it right back, and we ask what it looks like to recognize God's voice through consistent time with Him. We also look at Gideon's story and the idea of seeking confirmation that leads to obedience, not delay.  You'll hear powerful mission field testimonies from Tobias, including moments of sharing the gospel across language barriers, discipling new believers, and walking with seekers who are counting the real cost of following Jesus. Celeste shares her story of leaving career security for missions, trusting God through sudden redirection, and how our family learned to chase obedience with peace, even when the call felt inconvenient or hard.  We close with a clear invitation to put Jesus at the center, because real direction starts with lordship. If this encouraged you, subscribe, share it with a friend who needs clarity, and leave a review that helps more people find the show. What area of your life needs direction over chaos right now?Cornerstonehttps://www.cornerstoneaz.org/Follow Jesushttps://www.cornerstoneaz.org/follow-...Life Groups https://www.cornerstoneaz.org/life-gr...Giving https://cornerstoneaz.churchcenter.co...Church Center App - Download then add Cornerstone Christian Center in Avondale, AZiOShttps://itunes.apple.com/us/app/my-ch...Android https://play.google.com/store/apps/de...----Instagram   cornerstoneaz  Facebook  cornerstoneaz.org  Twitter  cornerstoneaz.org

ABOUT HIGHPOINT CHURCHHighPoint Church is an exciting and dynamic church in the West Orlando area (Ocoee, Windermere, Winter Garden, Clermont and MetroWest). Come experience Real Faith and Real Life every Sunday! Service times are 10:00am and 1:00pm (español) in person and Livestream. Life Groups meet throughout the week as well.

ABOUT HIGHPOINT CHURCHHighPoint Church is an exciting and dynamic church in the West Orlando area (Ocoee, Windermere, Winter Garden, Clermont and MetroWest). Come experience Real Faith and Real Life every Sunday! Service times are 10:00am and 1:00pm (español) in person and Livestream. Life Groups meet throughout the week as well.

Send us Fan MailAnxiety can feel like you're being responsible, but it often works like a leak, quietly subtracting from your sleep, your focus, and your joy. We sit down and talk through a simple but hard promise: the Prince of Peace wants you to experience peace over anxiety. Starting with Luke 12 and moving through 1 Peter 5 and Matthew 6, we unpack why worry cannot add a single hour to your life and how trust becomes the turning point when the future feels unclear.Celeste shares personal stories that make this real, growing up with constant change, learning stability through obedience, and then navigating the stress of living overseas as a single young woman. Airports, language barriers, and the fear of the unknown become a backdrop for a deeper lesson: anxiety often spikes when control disappears, and the “what if” spiral can stop your life in its tracks. We also get practical about everyday stress, what it looks like to walk into work already anxious, how a commute can become a reset, and why kindness and purpose matter when you feel pressured.We go further into the anxieties many of us carry in silence: parenting fears, image and comparison, and financial pressure when decisions create debt and stress we were never meant to hold. Philippians 4 becomes a roadmap, prayer, supplication, thanksgiving, and a disciplined thought life focused on what is true and worthy of praise. We end with a clear invitation to say yes to Jesus and a reminder that you're not meant to do this alone, community matters.If this conversation helps you, subscribe, share it with a friend who needs peace today, and leave a review so more people can find it. What's the biggest source of anxiety you want to release right now?Cornerstonehttps://www.cornerstoneaz.org/Follow Jesushttps://www.cornerstoneaz.org/follow-...Life Groups https://www.cornerstoneaz.org/life-gr...Giving https://cornerstoneaz.churchcenter.co...Church Center App - Download then add Cornerstone Christian Center in Avondale, AZiOShttps://itunes.apple.com/us/app/my-ch...Android https://play.google.com/store/apps/de...----Instagram   cornerstoneaz  Facebook  cornerstoneaz.org  Twitter  cornerstoneaz.org

Five years ago, OneChurch was mostly a vision. Today, that vision has faces, names and stories. In this special Five-Year Anniversary message, Pastor Ken Senchal looks back at what God has done through OneChurch—and challenges us to look forward to the people God still wants to reach. Over the past five years, we've seen more than 100 people give their lives to Christ, around 170 baptisms and nearly 100 Life Groups. But the mission was never about numbers. Every number has a name. Every name has a story. And every story matters to God. Drawing from Habakkuk 2:2 and Luke 19:10, Pastor Ken returns to the vision God gave OneChurch: Change the world one person at a time. How do we do it? Know God. Find Freedom. Discover Purpose. Make A Difference. Jesus always saw the ONE—and as OneChurch begins its next five years, we're asking God to help us do the same. There are people whose stories we don't know yet. They may live down the street, work beside us, sit in our classrooms or even be members of our own families. Maybe God intends to reach them through us. Thank you, God, for the last five years. Now we're ready for the next five. Father, show me my One. Subscribe to the OneChurch podcast and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it. Learn more about OneChurch at youronechurch.com.

Lead Pastor Jamey Miller preaches on the importance of believers meeting from house to house - what we call LifeGroups. We are called out of isolation and into walking with others!

Send us Fan MailA single misstep by the pool becomes a spiritual gut-check: when life blindsides you, do you stumble over Jesus or step onto him? We open 1 Peter 2 and keep coming back to one anchor statement that clarifies everything: Jesus is the cornerstone. Not a helpful add-on. Not one option among many. The fixed point that lets a fractured life finally line up straight.We talk about the stories we tell ourselves, the “main character” motivation that quietly drives our choices, and why small everyday decisions carry more weight than we want to admit. Then we sit with Peter's hard, hopeful contrast: the same Christ can be a rock of offense or a foundation of rescue. We also get painfully practical about shame, how it forms identity, why it leaks into our words, and how faith in Jesus breaks the cycle. Along the way we connect Isaiah, Romans, and the early church's struggle with works versus grace, landing on the clear gospel: we can't earn righteousness, we receive it by faith.From there, we zoom out to what a cornerstone life produces: a spiritual house built together, a church community that values discipleship, and a mission shaped by the Great Commission and the Great Commandment. We share Cornerstone Church's 40-year story of obedience, the call to choose Jesus over self, and tangible next steps through life groups, serving, and a culture marked by commitment, compassion, and celebration.If this message challenged you, help someone else find it: subscribe, share the episode, and leave a review. What's one area where you need Jesus to be your stepping stone today?Cornerstonehttps://www.cornerstoneaz.org/Follow Jesushttps://www.cornerstoneaz.org/follow-...Life Groups https://www.cornerstoneaz.org/life-gr...Giving https://cornerstoneaz.churchcenter.co...Church Center App - Download then add Cornerstone Christian Center in Avondale, AZiOShttps://itunes.apple.com/us/app/my-ch...Android https://play.google.com/store/apps/de...----Instagram   cornerstoneaz  Facebook  cornerstoneaz.org  Twitter  cornerstoneaz.org

ABOUT HIGHPOINT CHURCHHighPoint Church is an exciting and dynamic church in the West Orlando area (Ocoee, Windermere, Winter Garden, Clermont and MetroWest). Come experience Real Faith and Real Life every Sunday! Service times are 10:00am and 1:00pm (español) in person and Livestream. Life Groups meet throughout the week as well.

ABOUT HIGHPOINT CHURCHHighPoint Church is an exciting and dynamic church in the West Orlando area (Ocoee, Windermere, Winter Garden, Clermont and MetroWest). Come experience Real Faith and Real Life every Sunday! Service times are 10:00am and 1:00pm (español) in person and Livestream. Life Groups meet throughout the week as well.

Send us Fan MailA single sentence spoken at the right time can ripple through generations, and Pastor Jeff Peterson brings receipts. As we celebrate 40 years at Cornerstone Christian Center, he shares a stunning “God wink” that links a bedside prayer, a World War II battlefield conversion, and a pastor's calling nearly five decades later. It's the kind of story that forces you to rethink what “impact” really means and why your smallest act of obedience might matter more than you can see.We anchor the conversation in Ecclesiastes 11, where Scripture insists we can't fully understand the work of God, yet we're still called to sow. Pastor Jeff breaks it down into a memorable framework for spiritual growth and Christian leadership: believe in the seed, celebrate the mystery, and leave the results to God. That perspective reshapes how we handle people, slow results, and changing seasons, especially when ministry feels messy, exhausting, or unclear.The episode also stretches our faith with a missions story from Tibet that reframes “success” on God's timeline, plus practical ways to plant gospel seed through service, generosity, prayer, and sharing your testimony. If you've been waiting for perfect conditions, discouraged by what you can't measure, or tempted to quit too soon, this message brings you back to steady faithfulness.Listen, share this with someone who needs hope, and subscribe so you don't miss what God wants to grow next. After you listen, will you leave a review and tell us what seed you're committed to planting this week?Cornerstonehttps://www.cornerstoneaz.org/Follow Jesushttps://www.cornerstoneaz.org/follow-...Life Groups https://www.cornerstoneaz.org/life-gr...Giving https://cornerstoneaz.churchcenter.co...Church Center App - Download then add Cornerstone Christian Center in Avondale, AZiOShttps://itunes.apple.com/us/app/my-ch...Android https://play.google.com/store/apps/de...----Instagram   cornerstoneaz  Facebook  cornerstoneaz.org  Twitter  cornerstoneaz.org

Bible StudyDon't just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon: .Sermon NotesCore Purpose Statement: "To connect people to the presence and power of Jesus Christ."1. Introduction & Historical ContextLocal History: St. Andrew's roots date back to 1834 ($250 lot purchase in Old Village, Mount Pleasant) and its growth through 1858 (Historic Church on Whilden Street).The Legacy: Nearly 200 years of faithful worship, keeping Christ at the center through life's milestones and hardships.The Question: Why do we exist as a church today, and where are we going?2. First Element: "Jesus Christ"Christ-Centered Anchor: Everything at St. Andrew's centers on Jesus, avoiding vague or trend-based spirituality.Exclusive Authority: Jesus is the only Savior and source of life (Acts 4; John 14:6).Loving Mission: Pointing people to Jesus—the source of abundant life—is the kindest and most loving thing the church can do.3. Second Element: "Presence and Power"Presence (Living Person): Because Jesus rose from the dead, believers can experience a real, living relationship and friendship with Him today (Emmanuel, "God with us").Power (Life-Changing Action): The power that raised Jesus from the dead works in believers by:Awakening faith in those who are spiritually dead.Overcoming sin, destructive habits, and addiction.Equipping believers for ministry, service, and daily work.4. Third Element: "Connect People"The Agent of Connection: The Holy Spirit sovereignly, creatively, and personally connects individuals to Jesus.Four Primary Channels of Connection:Scripture: Engaging the inspired Word of God.Spiritual Gifts: Exercising gifts (prophetic words, healing, teaching, serving, generous giving) for the good of others.Prayer: Engaging in persistent, practical Kingdom business.Fellowship: Living out faith together ("y'all") through Life Groups, as well as Children's and Youth Ministries.Target Audience ("People"): All people—regardless of age, background, status, or spiritual starting point—because everyone shares the same need for salvation and grace.5. ConclusionCall to Action: Participate in the ongoing mission by serving, leading Life Groups, and investing in the next generation.Future Vision: A prayer that 200 years from now, faithful believers will still gather in this place to connect all people to Jesus.Discussion Questions1. What was your first impression of St. Andrew's when you visited (whether on a Sunday or a ministry event)?2. Why might it be offensive to some to focus on the exclusivity of Jesus Christ? As a church, how can we be both sensitive to various viewpoints while also bold in proclaiming the offer of life found only in Jesus?3. How have you experienced the presence and power of Jesus?4. In what ways does the Holy Spirit connect us to Jesus?Questions?Do you have a question about today's sermon? Email Randy Forrester ().

Troy kicks off our Basecamp series talking about the importance of community with the specific application of Life Groups and the blessing they hold

ABOUT HIGHPOINT CHURCHHighPoint Church is an exciting and dynamic church in the West Orlando area (Ocoee, Windermere, Winter Garden, Clermont and MetroWest). Come experience Real Faith and Real Life every Sunday! Service times are 10:00am and 1:00pm (español) in person and Livestream. Life Groups meet throughout the week as well.

ABOUT HIGHPOINT CHURCHHighPoint Church is an exciting and dynamic church in the West Orlando area (Ocoee, Windermere, Winter Garden, Clermont and MetroWest). Come experience Real Faith and Real Life every Sunday! Service times are 10:00am and 1:00pm (español) in person and Livestream. Life Groups meet throughout the week as well.

Send us Fan MailReady is not a personality trait, it's a practiced way of living. We open up 2 Timothy and take Paul's charge seriously: preach the word, be ready in season and out of season, and keep your faith when the moment is inconvenient. Along the way, we talk about what it actually means to “rightly handle the word of truth” so we're not twisting Scripture into a feel good quote, but letting God's Word form a steady, resilient life.You'll also hear a moving update from Shiloh about serving with our partners in Thailand, from kids and youth camps to homeless outreach, and a sobering look at ministry connected to the red light district and children impacted by trafficking. Her story puts mission, compassion, and courage in the same frame, and it reminds us that God is moving even in places that feel impossibly dark.From there, we get practical and personal: fleeing the passions that pull us off course, resisting the trap of “itching ears,” and holding grace and holiness together without sliding into legalism or excuses. We share a simple image that sticks: you can have a whole toolbox nearby, but if you don't carry the right tool into the moment, you still get stuck. Scripture is meant to be on your tool belt, ready to correct, train, and strengthen you for real life.If you're ready to recommit, or to say yes to Jesus for the first time, we make space for that response too. Subscribe for more, share this with a friend who needs a steady word, and leave a review so more people can find the message.Cornerstonehttps://www.cornerstoneaz.org/Follow Jesushttps://www.cornerstoneaz.org/follow-...Life Groups https://www.cornerstoneaz.org/life-gr...Giving https://cornerstoneaz.churchcenter.co...Church Center App - Download then add Cornerstone Christian Center in Avondale, AZiOShttps://itunes.apple.com/us/app/my-ch...Android https://play.google.com/store/apps/de...----Instagram   cornerstoneaz  Facebook  cornerstoneaz.org  Twitter  cornerstoneaz.org

ABOUT HIGHPOINT CHURCHHighPoint Church is an exciting and dynamic church in the West Orlando area (Ocoee, Windermere, Winter Garden, Clermont and MetroWest). Come experience Real Faith and Real Life every Sunday! Service times are 10:00am and 1:00pm (español) in person and Livestream. Life Groups meet throughout the week as well.

ABOUT HIGHPOINT CHURCHHighPoint Church is an exciting and dynamic church in the West Orlando area (Ocoee, Windermere, Winter Garden, Clermont and MetroWest). Come experience Real Faith and Real Life every Sunday! Service times are 10:00am and 1:00pm (español) in person and Livestream. Life Groups meet throughout the week as well.

Welcome to Mission City Church! In this message, "All In," we dive into Hebrews 12:1 and explore what it truly means to run the race God has set before us as a church family. Just like a torch relay, we are ordinary people entrusted with an extraordinary flame—and each of us has a vital leg of the journey to run. We look closely at the four essential pillars that shape our faith and church DNA: Worship, Life Groups, Service, and Giving. Discover how gathered worship realigns our hearts, how authentic community keeps us grounded, how serving unveils our God-given purpose, and how biblical generosity unlocks true spiritual freedom. Whether you are taking your first step, looking to get connected, or ready to deepen your commitment, it is time to throw off every hindrance and go "All In" for Jesus!Connect with us!Missioncity.church

These Are Our People Max Kozak Download Psalm 106,Praise the Lord!Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever!2 Who can utter the mighty deeds of the Lord, or declare all his praise?3 Blessed are they who observe justice, who do righteousness at all times!4 Remember me, O Lord, when you show favor to your people; help me when you save them,5 that I may look upon the prosperity of your chosen ones, that I may rejoice in the gladness of your nation, that I may glory with your inheritance.6 Both we and our fathers have sinned; we have committed iniquity; we have done wickedness.Mark Twain famously said that history doesn't repeat itself, but it often rhymes. That's why I love reading narrative nonfiction. Whether it's Shackleton, or John Adams, there is something uniquely “sticky” about gleaning important lessons other men have learned in the context of hearing their stories. And that's what we'll see the Psalmist setting out to do here, in Psalm 106.Similar to last week, the bulk of this Psalm is another recounting of Israel's history. And the story pretty much picks up where we left off last week. God has demonstrated his mighty power and covenant love by rescuing his people out of Egypt — and now, finally, Israel is about to cross the Red Sea and be on their way to the promised land. But although the story continues, the focus shifts. Psalm 106 has been described as “the dark counterpart to Psalm 105,” because its main focus is on the sin and rebellion of God's people. And we need to see both. Let's pray again, and then we'll jump in.Father, you are a mighty God who shows steadfast love to his covenant people. That was true when you led Israel out of Egypt to the promised land — and it's true now, as you lead us by your Spirit, through your Word. Help us to see and receive what you want to show us this morning in your Word, I pray in Jesus name, amen.1. The Tension: Blessing Belongs to the RighteousBefore we get into the story, we notice that there is a tension introduced in the first few verses that continues throughout this Psalm.After calling Israel to praise the Lord and give him thanks (v.1–2), the Psalmist reminds Israel that blessing belongs to the righteous: “blessed are they who observe justice, who do righteousness at all times.” (v. 3)He then personally appeals to God's blessing — asking that he would get in on the prosperity, gladness, and glory of God's covenant people (v.5). He says remember me (when you show favor to your people). Help me (when you save them). He wants to be included in their prosperity and the blessings of their inheritance.But if you read ahead, you'll say time out, this makes no sense.First, we'll see later in the Psalm that Israel is in exile when this psalm is written. The “prosperity and gladness” that he wants to get in on is far from Israel's current reality.Second, he's just linked God's blessing to righteousness, but the history that he then goes to great lengths to recount reveals that Israel's track record is the opposite of righteousness. And remember, God's covenant with Israel includes not just blessings for obedience, but also, curses for disobedience (laid out famously in Deuteronomy 28). And as we go through the story we'll see that it's the curses, not the blessings that fit Israel's track record.So that's the elephant in the room — the tension from the start is this: if blessing belongs to the righteous, how can the psalmist identify himself with Israel's wickedness, and yet appeal to God's blessing?2. Israel's Dark Pattern of SinThe story picks up in v.6:“Both we and our fathers have sinned; we have committed iniquity; we have done wickedness.”Now, before we analyze the story, it's important to recognize what he's not doing and what he is doing. First, He is not denouncing or rejecting his heritage. It's clear in verses 4 and 5 that he has tied his identity to God's chosen nation. “Ride or die,” he has linked his fate to that of God's covenant people. At the same time he is not hiding their wickedness. He calls sin, sin, no matter where he sees it. There is no protecting reputations or sugarcoating here.It's also worth noting that he is not “taking on” or “repenting for” his father's sins. There is no “group guilt” going on here. Scripture is clear:“Each will give an account of himself to God.” (Rom 14:12)And yet, he's honest enough to see himself in their story. He does not say “well if it were me in that wilderness, man, I'd do better” — the arrogant attitude that C.S. Lewis calls “chronological snobbery.”Instead, he leads us through a hard, honest look at Israel's history, and a hard honest look at his own heart to identify the dark pattern of sin and rebellion that cuts through every human heart. “Both we and our fathers have sinned.”If last week's history lesson was meant to show us: “wow, this is our God,” this week's history lesson reveals the flip side of the coin: “uff, these are our people.”The Red Sea (vv. 7-12)And we see their first failure at the Red Sea. Israel is on the cusp of leaving Egypt. They are about to walk free after 400 years of slavery. God had absolutely humiliated Pharaoh. Round after round, demonstrating both his power and his covenant love through his Judgement on Egypt, culminating in the death of every firstborn, and making Pharaoh finally relent and let Israel go. So here they are — their Fourth of July moment. And we see rebellion right at the starting line.“Our fathers, when they were in Egypt, did not consider your wondrous works; they did not remember the abundance of your steadfast love, but rebelled by the sea, at the Red Sea.” (v. 7)Pharaoh changes his mind, the Israelites see the chariots coming, and they turn on Moses and God saying “did you bring us out here to die?! Didn't we tell you in Egypt to leave us alone?”The Psalmist's first charge begins with “they did not consider God's works” — literally, they gave them no thought — “And forgot the abundance of his love.” Not paying attention, and forgetting, are high-stakes moral offenses, when it comes to our posture towards God. Remembering is a reflection of what we value, and God has given his people provisions for our remembering with many rhythms, disciplines, and reminders to reinforce our attentiveness to Him. Take advantage of them! Meditate on his word daily, tell of his wondrous works to one another, teach them to your children!But instead, Israel's forgetting here reveals their disregard for God and it results in rebellion. Yet God still intervened: He split the sea, destroyed the Egyptian army, and brought them out of Egypt. And for a brief moment, “they believed his word and sang his praise” (v.12). And they lived happily ever after … right?No, instead, we see the fickleness of their trust immediately in the next verse.Wilderness Cravings (vv. 13-15)“But they soon forgot his works; they did not wait for his counsel. 14 But they had a wanton craving in the wilderness, and put God to the test in the desert; 15 he gave them what they asked, but sent a wasting disease among them.” (v. 13)Instead of delighting in the Lord who just saved them, they forget again, and their hearts are corrupted by disordered desires.They had “wanton cravings” for food — literally translates “they crave-craved” food — to the point of putting God to the test: trying to manipulate God into proving himself to them on their terms.There is nothing wrong with their desire for meat, nor with asking God to provide good things we crave. But when you combine forgetting God and disordered desires, our cravings become deadly. Yet God gives them the meat they wanted, and his anger came with it in a wasting disease, where many people died, giving that place the name “graves of craving.”The Coup Against Moses (vv. 16-18)We'll skip over verses 16-18, but basically a group of prominent men, driven by jealousy rises up against Moses in a coup … God intervenes … the ground opens and swallows the leaders alive … and fire from heaven consumes the rest.The Golden Calf (vv. 19-23)Then comes the infamous golden calf episode. Verse 19:“They made a calf in Horeb and worshiped a metal image. 20 They exchanged the glory of God for the image of an ox that eats grass. 21 They forgot God, their Savior, who had done great things in Egypt, 22 wondrous works in the land of Ham, and awesome deeds by the Red Sea. 23 Therefore he said he would destroy them—had not Moses, his chosen one, stood in the breach before him, to turn away his wrath from destroying them.”Israel forgets again, and this time the whole nation rebels in idolatry. Instead of worshipping God, their savior, they chose to worship pretty much the most pathetic thing they could find. An ox, (that's a male cow) that eats grass. It was pathetic, but more importantly, it was deeply wicked, and a betrayal of their God. And we see its seriousness in verse 23:“Therefore he said he would destroy them—had not Moses, his chosen one, stood in the breach before him, to turn away his wrath from destroying them.”After everything from Abraham to Moses, God was ready to wipe them out and start over with Moses. That's the gravity of the situation. And there's no doubt that they deserved destruction, on the spot — ground opening up, or fire coming down. But Moses stands in the breach — a military image: when a wall has been breached, the city's about to get sacked except for a champion who steps into the gap, inserting himself to rescue the people.So what's going on here? Is Moses opposing God? Was God overreacting? Not at all. God is displaying here both the gravity of their sin, while also laying the groundwork for what it will ultimately take to deal with it. God wants Israel to know that the only thing that kept them from experiencing the just wrath of God was God's chosen one interceding on their behalf. And because of Moses' intercession, the flood of God's wrath is held back, at least for now, and without any delusions about what their sin deserves.The Spies Refuse the Promise (vv. 24–27)Then, on the very edge of the promised land, twelve spies are sent to scout it out. Ten of them give a cowardly report that ignites fear in the nation: “giants, fortified cities, no chance.” And Israel, again, ignores God's promise.“They despised the pleasant land, having no faith in his promise” (v.24).The result: an entire generation dies in the wilderness, without entering the promised land.Phinehas' Intercession (vv. 28–31)Fast forward to verse 28. Israel is now in Moab, right on the doorstep of the land, and they rebel again. This time they join themselves to the Moabites by worshiping their pagan idols and committing sexual immorality with them. So God's anger breaks out in a deadly plague against his people.And here in the midst of this plague, someone again intercedes — but this time it looks a little different. Phinehas (Aaron's grandson) sees a blatant demonstration of rebellion happening openly between a leading Israelite man and a prominent Moabite woman, so he grabs his spear, and executes judgment on both: with one thrust, deals with sin on the spot. And as the text says:“he intervened, and the plague was stayed, and that was counted to him as righteousness from generation to generation forever” (v.30–31).“Intervened” is an interesting choice of word. It's that intercession language again. Moses turned away God's wrath through intercessory pleading. Phinehas turns away God's wrath through intercessory action, executing justice for sin on the spot. Both are described as acts of intercession that hold back the flood of God's judgement against Israel, for now.And there's an important application for us here: Confront sin in your life head-on. Do not coddle sin, or it will destroy you. That requires calling sin what it is, and not concealing it. Phinehas confronted sin out of his righteous Zeal for the Lord and out of his love for his people. So confront sin starting with your own heart, and then commit to helping one another confront sin in Life Groups. The stakes are too high for a Minnesota-Nice coddling of sin. Sin dishonors God and when left unchecked will destroy you! Help each other root it out, in love. Faithful are the wounds of a friend.Defiling the Land (vv. 34–40)Fast forward to verse 34. Israel is finally in the promised land. You'd think, after everything they've been through, they would have learned. Instead, once they're finally in the land, they again, immediately disregard what God commands. God had told them to destroy the Canaanites, but instead…“They did not destroy the peoples, as the Lord commanded them, 35 but they mixed with the nations and learned to do as they did. 36 They served their idols, which became a snare to them. 37 They sacrificed their sons and their daughters to the demons; 38 they poured out innocent blood, the blood of their sons and daughters, whom they sacrificed to the idols of Canaan, and the land was polluted with blood. 39 Thus they became unclean by their acts, and played the whore in their deeds. 40 Then the anger of the Lord was kindled against his people, and he abhorred his heritage;”Instead of obeying God and executing righteous judgement (like Phinehas) to remove the evil from the land, they became just like them. They served their gods, and polluted the land with the blood of their own sons and daughters whom they sacrificed to demons!These are dark, dark verses. It should make us sick to our stomach. And it's an important reminder of the trajectory of sin. It is never satisfied staying where it is. It always drags you further and further into darkness, long before you see it's true ugliness.What's our view of sin? Does it make us sick? There's an ever-present danger of minimizing sin and there are many reasons for this. For one, the world around us celebrates it, and it's easy to grow accustomed to it. But also, because we've never seen the full extent of it's depravity. Don't get me wrong, we've seen enough. But, throughout all of history, in countless ways, God always restrains sin from its full expression. Whatever wickedness you have seen (both in your own heart, and in the world around you), is just the tip of the iceberg. Don't underestimate it. And this Psalm helps us not to underestimate it. They sacrificed their own children to demons! Sin is infinitely offensive to God, and it will keep dragging you further and further into it's bottomless pit.So here they are, the ugliness of their hearts on full display. And God can't stand it. He abhors them. He says “Get Out.” Right back into the hand of the nations to be ruled by those who hate them (v.41).Verse 6 opened things up with “Both we and our fathers have sinned” and verse 43 bookends it with his summary:“Many times he delivered them, but they were rebellious in their purposes and were brought low through their iniquity.”Or as the NIV puts it, “they were bent on rebellion.”This wasn't occasional, nor was it circumstantial. Bent. It's who they are and, if we're honest, it's who we are as well. This isn't just Israel's reality, or a uniquely wicked generation. It's the condition of the human heart. From Adam to us, history rhymes in a dark pattern of sin and rebellion against God.“All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (Rom 3:23)And it brings us back to our original tension: if blessing belongs to the righteous, how can the psalmist (and how can we) who identify with Israel's wickedness, appeal to God's blessing?Well, Psalm 106 doesn't fully resolve that tension. In a way, it is a true cliff-hanger. The main melody of Psalm 106 is Israel's dark pattern of rebellion and the psalm ends with Israel in exile. But even so, there is a powerful countermelody of God's mercy throughout this psalm, most clearly in verse 44 right after their rock bottom moment.3. God's Countermelody of Mercy“Nevertheless, he looked upon their distress, when he heard their cry. 45 For their sake he remembered his covenant, and relented according to the abundance of his steadfast love. 46 He caused them to be pitied by all those who held them captive.”Unlike Israel, who forgets God's covenant at every turn, God never forgets his covenant. The great miracle of Psalm 106 is God's unwavering commitment to his people despite their sin. Time after time he preserves Israel when they deserve to be swept away in his righteous judgment. In every example we've walked through, anything short of Israel's utter destruction is an example of God's countermelody of mercy — his covenant love inserting itself between Israel's guilt and the judgement they deserve.But how? On what basis does “nevertheless” get to happen? God is no less just here than he was when he wiped out Korah's rebellion. So what holds the flood back?Our psalm has already alluded to it twice, both times incomplete. Moses stood in the breach — interceding through pleading, but absorbing nothing himself. Phinehas interceded through judgment — dealing with sin decisively, but only for one sin, not to mention that they were destroyed in the process. These examples highlight two halves of the same tension. What we need is someone to do both. Someone who will stand in the breach in our place, and satisfy God's justice on our behalf.The tension of Psalm 106 and it's hints of intercession both point forward in time to Christ's intercession on the cross once and for all. Romans 3:23-26 reminds us plainly: “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24 and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, 25 whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith. This was to show God's righteousness, because in his divine forbearance he had passed over former sins. 26 It was to show his righteousness at the present time, so that he might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus.”Jesus is God's answer to the tension. The Son of God became a man, lived the righteous life we couldn't, and stepped into the breach for us receiving the full judgement for our sins on the cross. He accomplished what Moses and Phinehas pointed to. He satisfied the judgment that our sin demanded, and displayed God's covenant mercy for all who trust in him. He takes the judgement for our sins, and we inherit the blessings of his righteousness. Intercession, completed.This is what makes the psalmist's plea in verse 47 possible.“Save us, O Lord our God, and gather us from among the nations, that we may give thanks to your holy name and glory in your praise.”He trusted that God in his mercy and justice would make a way to gather his people for worship and thanksgiving despite their track record. And it's why he can appeal to God's blessing despite his own sinfulness. Every “nevertheless” in Israel's history was borrowed against the cross. Every time God held back the flood, he was holding it back until it could finally, fully fall on his Son, in our place. That was true for Israel, and it's true for us. These are our people, and this is our God!And that brings us to the table.The TableThe table reminds us of where God's mercy and justice meet. No longer in tension, not in some uneasy compromise, but both fully satisfied at the cross.That's what this bread and this cup remind us of. His body, broken for us. His blood poured out for us. Christ took our sins upon himself, and we receive the blessings of His righteousness. We don't come to this table because our track record is any better than Israel's, we come because Christ stood where we should have stood, and declared “It is Finished.”As we celebrate the Lord's table together, this meal is a meal for the members of Cities Church, but if you have trusted in Jesus we invite you to eat with us.If you have not trusted in Jesus, we ask that you let the bread and the cup pass, but let this psalm be your invitation. As Tim Keller notes, you are more sinful than you know, and more loved than you imagine. Trust in Jesus today.

Send us Fan MailFear loves to impersonate reality. It tells you you're stuck, too broken, too tired, too far gone, and it keeps you from the life God is actually inviting you into. We lean hard into 2 Timothy 1:7 and get specific about what replaces fear when the Holy Spirit leads the way: power, love, and self-control, not as motivational phrases, but as a lived, daily practice of discipleship.We also share what we witnessed through ministry connections in Bangkok and beyond, from baptisms to church planting efforts and practical projects that serve communities. Seeing students lead and serve is a needed wake-up call: our kids are not waiting to become the church someday. Their identity is already secured as sons and daughters of the Most High God, and that confidence helps them cross cultural lines and love people well.Then we bring it home. We talk about praying for prodigals, honoring the legacy of generational faith, and refusing to give up when a loved one feels out of reach. We unpack why “fan into flame” is not poetic language, it's survival language for spiritual life, and why Christian community and life groups matter if we want a sound mind and real self-control. We close with a clear invitation to say yes to Jesus and take a next step so no one has to walk alone.If this encouraged you, share it with someone who's fighting fear, subscribe for more, and leave a review to help others find the conversation. What's one area where you need power, love, or self-control right now?Cornerstonehttps://www.cornerstoneaz.org/Follow Jesushttps://www.cornerstoneaz.org/follow-...Life Groups https://www.cornerstoneaz.org/life-gr...Giving https://cornerstoneaz.churchcenter.co...Church Center App - Download then add Cornerstone Christian Center in Avondale, AZiOShttps://itunes.apple.com/us/app/my-ch...Android https://play.google.com/store/apps/de...----Instagram   cornerstoneaz  Facebook  cornerstoneaz.org  Twitter  cornerstoneaz.org

Send us Fan MailOne wrong turn in the water can feel like the right direction until you run out of breath. That story becomes a mirror for spiritual life as we open 1 Timothy and talk about deception, truth, and the quiet ways we can drift without noticing.We walk through Paul's guidance to Timothy on rejecting myths, clinging to Scripture, and training for godliness in everyday life. You'll hear simple, practical handles for Christian discipleship: listening to God through the Bible and the Holy Spirit, talking with God through honest prayer, and acting on what he asks so we stop “swimming” against the truth. We also lean into Paul's call to set an example, reminding both young and older believers that God's calling is not limited by age and that spiritual gifts are meant to be used, not neglected.Then we zoom out to a foundational question: what is the church? Not a place we visit, but a people we are. That leads into a grounded, sometimes challenging conversation about biblical honor in 1 Timothy 5 and 6: honoring elders, caring for widows, providing for family, valuing faithful leaders, and showing respect in the workplace so the name of God is not dragged down. We close with a direct warning about false teachers and modern noise, plus a timely lesson on contentment, the love of money, and what it means to fight the good fight of faith with consistent spiritual training.If you're hungry for spiritual freedom, clearer discernment, and practical next steps for living like Jesus at home, online, and at work, press play. Subscribe, share this with a friend, and leave a review so more people can find the message.Cornerstonehttps://www.cornerstoneaz.org/Follow Jesushttps://www.cornerstoneaz.org/follow-...Life Groups https://www.cornerstoneaz.org/life-gr...Giving https://cornerstoneaz.churchcenter.co...Church Center App - Download then add Cornerstone Christian Center in Avondale, AZiOShttps://itunes.apple.com/us/app/my-ch...Android https://play.google.com/store/apps/de...----Instagram   cornerstoneaz  Facebook  cornerstoneaz.org  Twitter  cornerstoneaz.org

Join host Meg Greer on "God and Our Dogs" as she welcomes Debbie Watson, Communications Director for Hill Country Daily Bread Ministries. Debbie shares heartfelt stories about her rescue dogs—Pixel, Remy, and Charlotte—and the lessons they teach about comfort, persistence, and unconditional love. Discover how these dog stories reflect God’s constant presence, guidance, and non-judgmental love in our lives. Debbie also discusses the importance of community, serving others, and the impact of Hill Country Daily Bread’s programs, including opportunities for volunteering and mentorship. Tune in for inspiration, faith, and practical ways to rely on God, just as our dogs rely on us. Learn more at hillcountrydailybread.org and follow "God and Our Dogs" on Facebook! 00:00 - Introduction & Show Overview 00:42 - Meet Debbie Watson, Guest Introduction 01:36 - Debbie’s Rescue Dogs: Pixel, Remy, and Fostering 03:17 - The Surprise: Remy’s Puppies 04:02 - Keeping Charlotte: A Special Bond 05:27 - Lessons from Dogs: Comfort, Persistence, and God’s Love 07:28 - How God Guides and Comforts Us 09:14 - Staying on the Right Path: Faith and Community 10:55 - The Power of Life Groups and Accountability 12:04 - Serving Others at Hill Country Daily Bread 13:33 - Volunteer Opportunities & Summer Leadership Academy 15:22 - The Impact of Mentorship 16:43 - How to Support or Get Involved 18:11 - Closing Thoughts & Final Reflections 19:57 - Outro: Where to Listen and Connect Host: Meg Grier - Stories@GodAndOurDogs.com Website: www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100072683640098 God and Our Dogs airs every Saturday at 11:15am on Boerne Radio 103.9FM - www.boerneradio.com. Air Date: 7/25/26 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Michigan amended its employment discrimination law and extended “sex” discrimination protections to include women who have had an abortion. Constitutional expert, lawyer, author, pastor, and founder of Liberty Counsel Mat Staver discusses the important topics of the day with co-hosts and guests that impact life, liberty, and family. To stay informed and get involved, visit LC.org.

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Send us Fan MailLetters can feel quaint until you realize they once carried hope across oceans and silence across years. We start with a story that makes that real: an elderly woman in her 80s whose arthritis kept her from writing to a friend in Ireland, until healing and persistence gave her back the ability to put pen to paper and reconnect. That “small” act becomes a big reminder that connection and discipleship aren't disposable, even if modern communication is instant.From there, we walk through 1 Timothy 1 with Pastor Angus at Cornerstone and step into Timothy's world in Ephesus, a massive, diverse city crowded with pagan worship, spiritual counterfeits, and competing philosophies. We talk about why the pastoral epistles matter for church health today, how to recognize false teachers, and why endless speculation and argument can quietly replace the mission of Jesus. You'll also hear a memorable warning about choosing teachers wisely and why we have to study Scripture for ourselves so our faith becomes owned, not borrowed.We close with the heart of the message: sound doctrine should produce love from a pure heart, a good conscience, and sincere faith and no one is too far gone for God's mercy. Paul's transformation proves it, and our testimonies carry that same power when we live changed lives instead of chasing debates. If you're hungry for biblical teaching, Christian discipleship, and a clearer path to spiritual growth, press play, then share this with a friend and leave a review. What part of your story might God be asking you to use?Cornerstonehttps://www.cornerstoneaz.org/Follow Jesushttps://www.cornerstoneaz.org/follow-...Life Groups https://www.cornerstoneaz.org/life-gr...Giving https://cornerstoneaz.churchcenter.co...Church Center App - Download then add Cornerstone Christian Center in Avondale, AZiOShttps://itunes.apple.com/us/app/my-ch...Android https://play.google.com/store/apps/de...----Instagram   cornerstoneaz  Facebook  cornerstoneaz.org  Twitter  cornerstoneaz.org

Send us Fan MailPanic spreads faster than truth, especially when it comes wrapped in spiritual language. We pick up in 2 Thessalonians and talk about what happens when a church gets rattled by claims that the day of the Lord has already arrived. Barb opens with a relatable picture of Y2K style fear and then drives straight into Paul's warning: don't get quickly shaken, don't get played by rumors, and don't let anxiety shape your choices.From there we zoom out to the bigger challenge for Christians right now: discernment. We unpack how deception can travel through whispers, “someone said,” and even messages that look legitimate, and why testing what we hear against Scripture protects our peace and our intimacy with God. We also talk about vigilance without obsession, including the idea of the Holy Spirit as the restrainer and what it means for the church to “hold the wall” together by praying, standing, and shining light in ordinary places like our homes and workplaces.Gage then brings it home with hope: God chose you from the beginning for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and belief in the truth. We dig into what sanctification actually means, why the gospel can't be replaced by good intentions, and why good works are the fruit of salvation, not the price of admission. Dave closes with two practical marching orders from 2 Thessalonians 3: pray and serve, plus a real invitation to volunteer with Mercy House and our back to school outreach.If you want clearer faith in a noisy world, hit play, then subscribe, share this with a friend, and leave a review so more people can find it.Cornerstonehttps://www.cornerstoneaz.org/Follow Jesushttps://www.cornerstoneaz.org/follow-...Life Groups https://www.cornerstoneaz.org/life-gr...Giving https://cornerstoneaz.churchcenter.co...Church Center App - Download then add Cornerstone Christian Center in Avondale, AZiOShttps://itunes.apple.com/us/app/my-ch...Android https://play.google.com/store/apps/de...----Instagram   cornerstoneaz  Facebook  cornerstoneaz.org  Twitter  cornerstoneaz.org

Send us Fan MailFireworks fade fast, but the questions linger: what does freedom actually require, and what does it cost to keep your faith when the current is moving the other way? We start with something simple and surprisingly powerful, the practice of writing letters, then we open Paul's words in 2 Thessalonians 1 and let them challenge us. When Paul praises a persecuted church for growing faith and increasing love, we hear a message many of us need today: keep going, stand firm, and don't let pressure rewrite your convictions.We talk honestly about what persecution can look like in modern life, not always dramatic, but often personal. Being left out by friends, misunderstood by family, or punished professionally for living by Christian values can wear you down. We anchor the response in Scripture and in a clear call to live with courage and love, while also praying for America with gratitude for the freedom to worship and the responsibility that comes with it.Then we give a practical framework we can all pray: recovery, restoration, repentance, and release. We ask God to restore awe, rebuild what's been broken, turn hearts away from sin, and break chains of addiction, trauma, and strongholds. We close with an invitation to follow Jesus, plus next steps so no one has to walk alone.If this encouraged you, subscribe, share it with a friend who needs strength, and leave a review so more people can find these conversations. What's the one “R” you're asking God for right now?Cornerstonehttps://www.cornerstoneaz.org/Follow Jesushttps://www.cornerstoneaz.org/follow-...Life Groups https://www.cornerstoneaz.org/life-gr...Giving https://cornerstoneaz.churchcenter.co...Church Center App - Download then add Cornerstone Christian Center in Avondale, AZiOShttps://itunes.apple.com/us/app/my-ch...Android https://play.google.com/store/apps/de...----Instagram   cornerstoneaz  Facebook  cornerstoneaz.org  Twitter  cornerstoneaz.org

Join us as we walk through the Psalms, exploring how this rich book of Scripture meets us in every valley and hilltop as we experience God's gospel springs for our desert hearts. Dax Gibson Pastor of Life Groups, Newcomers & Outreach Sermon Recorded June 28th, 2026 at Oak Mountain Presbyterian Church Birmingham, Alabama

Send us Fan MailFear is loud, persuasive, and weirdly familiar, especially when we're trying to look brave. We start with three words that set the tone for everything that follows: aware, awake, anointed. Then we get honest about the kind of fear that doesn't just make you nervous, but quietly drives your decisions, your relationships, and your view of God. If you grew up with rapture anxiety or end-times teaching that left you bracing for a “gotcha” moment, you'll feel this shift: Jesus doesn't scare you into following him, he draws you close.We walk through 1 Thessalonians 5 and the warning that the day of the Lord comes like a thief in the night. That's not a cue to spiral, it's a call to spiritual readiness. We connect it with Luke 17, Noah, and Lot, and we talk about how distraction, indulgence, and nonstop “peace and security” messaging can lull a culture to sleep. We also name the real-world weight of war and instability, pray for Venezuela, and remind ourselves that even in countries labeled “enemies,” we have brothers and sisters in faith.The practical turn is simple and strong: live as children of light. Stay sober-minded, put on faith and love like armor, and hold the hope of salvation steady in your mind. We close with an invitation to embrace Jesus, a prayer you can pray right now, and clear next steps for your walk with God, including baptism and support for new believers.If this helped you breathe again, share it with a friend who's been living on edge. Subscribe, leave a review, and tell us what you're choosing to replace fear with this week. What does “aware, awake, anointed” look like in your life today?Cornerstonehttps://www.cornerstoneaz.org/Follow Jesushttps://www.cornerstoneaz.org/follow-...Life Groups https://www.cornerstoneaz.org/life-gr...Giving https://cornerstoneaz.churchcenter.co...Church Center App - Download then add Cornerstone Christian Center in Avondale, AZiOShttps://itunes.apple.com/us/app/my-ch...Android https://play.google.com/store/apps/de...----Instagram   cornerstoneaz  Facebook  cornerstoneaz.org  Twitter  cornerstoneaz.org

Send us Fan MailSome Sundays don't feel like inspiration, they feel like endurance. We start with a simple but challenging truth from Paul's letter to the Thessalonians: trials aren't a glitch in the Christian life, they're part of it. Angie Ortiz shares how sickness, financial pressure, family burdens, and the battle in our minds can either shake our faith or strengthen it, and why God's presence matters more than a painless path. If you've been asking where God is when life gets heavy, you'll hear a steady answer: He's faithful in the middle of it.From there, we dig into 1 Thessalonians 4 and talk sanctification, becoming more like Jesus with real choices in the real world. That includes sexual purity, self-control, and the uncomfortable reality that holiness won't always match the crowd. We also talk about the Holy Spirit's conviction as a gift, guidance that keeps us from drifting into consequences, and brotherly love as the everyday proof that Jesus is changing us.Then Sarina brings a vivid image that lands in the heart: the empty chair. Maybe yours is a person you lost, a relationship that ended, a dream that never came, or a prayer that still feels unanswered. Paul doesn't tell us not to grieve; he tells us not to grieve without hope. Because Jesus died and rose again, the tomb is empty, and that reshapes how we carry sorrow, how we wait, and what we believe about reunion and restoration.We close with a clear invitation to say yes to Jesus and step into a living relationship with God, plus prayer for anyone walking through trials or loss. If this encouraged you, subscribe, share it with a friend, and leave a review so more people can find hope that holds.Cornerstonehttps://www.cornerstoneaz.org/Follow Jesushttps://www.cornerstoneaz.org/follow-...Life Groups https://www.cornerstoneaz.org/life-gr...Giving https://cornerstoneaz.churchcenter.co...Church Center App - Download then add Cornerstone Christian Center in Avondale, AZiOShttps://itunes.apple.com/us/app/my-ch...Android https://play.google.com/store/apps/de...----Instagram   cornerstoneaz  Facebook  cornerstoneaz.org  Twitter  cornerstoneaz.org

Send us Fan MailA real letter used to feel like an event. You waited for it, you opened it carefully, and you could almost feel the person behind the words. We start there with a story about the last generation before phones and what it was like to get a handwritten note that felt unforgettable, then we ask a bigger question: what if the Bible is that kind of letter, only eternal?We trace the idea through the New Testament letters and land in Thessalonica, using Acts 17 to set the scene. Paul and his team bring the gospel into a city that pushes back hard, and a believer named Jason takes heat simply for offering a home. That moment reframes the church as a people who can “turn the world upside down” not through hype, but through conviction, hospitality, and loyalty to King Jesus. From there we open 1 Thessalonians and sit with Paul's gratitude for a community marked by faith, love, and hope, all empowered by the Holy Spirit rather than empty words.We also talk about the kind of leadership that actually forms disciples: bold in conflict, gentle in care, and committed to pleasing God over people. Paul describes nurturing tenderness like a mother and guiding strength like a father, which challenges us to grow up in our faith without becoming harsh or performative. The message ends with a clear invitation to follow Jesus, receive forgiveness through the cross and resurrection, and step into a life shaped by God's presence and God's people.If this encouraged you, share it with a friend who needs courage, subscribe so you don't miss what's next, and leave a review that helps more people find this Bible teaching and discipleship conversation.Cornerstonehttps://www.cornerstoneaz.org/Follow Jesushttps://www.cornerstoneaz.org/follow-...Life Groups https://www.cornerstoneaz.org/life-gr...Giving https://cornerstoneaz.churchcenter.co...Church Center App - Download then add Cornerstone Christian Center in Avondale, AZiOShttps://itunes.apple.com/us/app/my-ch...Android https://play.google.com/store/apps/de...----Instagram   cornerstoneaz  Facebook  cornerstoneaz.org  Twitter  cornerstoneaz.org

Send us Fan MailGetting lost is one thing. Realizing you are alone, unsure which direction is safe, and too far in to pretend it is fine is something else. Pastor Angus opens with a seventh-grade Boy Scouts story where one wrong turn at a fork turns a hike into panic, and then flips it into a powerful metaphor for Christian life: we can start out walking with Jesus, but if we drift from the group and stop listening, we end up off trail fast.From there, we dig into walking in the Spirit through Galatians 5, including the hard truth that accepting Christ does not instantly erase old habits, triggers, or patterns. We talk about the works of the flesh, why “just don't do it” rarely lasts, and why transformation is more than behavior modification. One of the most helpful moments is unpacking conviction vs condemnation: conviction is Holy Spirit pointing to what He wants to heal, while condemnation tries to shut you down with shame.We also get practical with spiritual growth habits that build a real relationship with Holy Spirit: getting in the Word, praying as a dialogue, learning to listen in the quiet, and what it can mean to pray in the Spirit when you do not even know what to ask. Pastor Angus uses a simple light-switch picture to explain spiritual power: God's power is present, but we still choose whether we live “on” or “off” in everyday pressure.Finally, we clarify baptism in the Holy Spirit as empowerment for witness and daily living, and we hold space for a clear invitation to receive Jesus and step onto a new path with a new destination. If this encouraged you, subscribe, share it with a friend who feels off trail, and leave a review so more people can find it.Cornerstonehttps://www.cornerstoneaz.org/Follow Jesushttps://www.cornerstoneaz.org/follow-...Life Groups https://www.cornerstoneaz.org/life-gr...Giving https://cornerstoneaz.churchcenter.co...Church Center App - Download then add Cornerstone Christian Center in Avondale, AZiOShttps://itunes.apple.com/us/app/my-ch...Android https://play.google.com/store/apps/de...----Instagram   cornerstoneaz  Facebook  cornerstoneaz.org  Twitter  cornerstoneaz.org

Send us Fan MailPentecost isn't a church calendar trivia fact, it's a moment that confronts a question most of us live with every day: where does real power come from when life gets messy? We start with Jesus' words in John 14: “I am the way, the truth, and the life,” and we get brutally practical about identity. If your job changes, money shifts, or your “stuff” gets stripped away, your value doesn't drop. Your worth is anchored in being a son or daughter of God, not a title you can lose.Then we lean into the promise Jesus makes about the Holy Spirit. He is not a vibe, not a symbol, not God's sidekick, he is fully God, the Helper and Spirit of truth who dwells with us and in us. We talk about why conviction is different from condemnation, why resisting the Spirit is spiritually dangerous, and why so many of us chase guidance from TikTok, reels, or success metrics instead of letting the Spirit lead our decisions. This is Spirit-led Christianity for Monday morning, not just Sunday.From there we walk straight into Acts 2 and the Pentecost story: the sound of a rushing wind, tongues of fire on every believer, and the church empowered to witness. We explain what we mean by the baptism of the Holy Spirit, why speaking in tongues shows up in the text, and how God's heart is to speak to people in their heart language. We also make space for a clear invitation to respond, both for salvation and for a deeper, Spirit-filled life.If this stirred something in you, listen all the way through, share it with a friend, and leave a review. What would change if you asked for “more of God” today?Cornerstonehttps://www.cornerstoneaz.org/Follow Jesushttps://www.cornerstoneaz.org/follow-...Life Groups https://www.cornerstoneaz.org/life-gr...Giving https://cornerstoneaz.churchcenter.co...Church Center App - Download then add Cornerstone Christian Center in Avondale, AZiOShttps://itunes.apple.com/us/app/my-ch...Android https://play.google.com/store/apps/de...----Instagram   cornerstoneaz  Facebook  cornerstoneaz.org  Twitter  cornerstoneaz.org

We all have a deep longing for belonging, but fear or past hurts often keep us from engaging in true community. This week, Pastor Daniel Lee introduces the "Johari Window" framework to show how the Holy Spirit uses faith communities—like Rooted, Life Groups, or Celebrate Recovery—to move us out of hiding and into transformation.By bringing our hidden sins, blind spots, and unknown fears into the open "arena" of supportive relationships, we invite God's healing light. Discover why the phrase "come as you are" is an invitation to bring your authentic self to church so that, step by step, you can become exactly who God created you to be.

In this episode, Jenna shares her journey of coming to Victory Faith and joining a Life Group right away. Over the past few years, she's experienced real growth, meaningful connection, and a life that looks different today. Now leading a group herself, she shares why simply showing up can change more than you expect.

As Easter is this weekend, Sean explains that the church's goal isn't crowds but making disciples—passionate followers of Jesus who learn Scripture and obey it—often through intentional, relational, Biblical community groups with accountability and measurable habits like daily time in the Word and prayer. He discusses the need for pastors to have peer community, warns about ego on stage, affirms women's role in discipleship, and emphasizes discipling within marriage and family while equipping all believers to disciple others.00:00 Show Intro and Banter00:44 Song Credits and Spotify Plug01:20 Easter Message Preview02:16 Why Resurrection Matters03:04 Service Times and Invitation04:04 Vacation and Pastor Life05:23 Community Over Pedestals07:13 Easter Crowds vs Disciples07:59 What Discipleship Means09:00 Growing Disciples Who Disciple12:13 Great Commission and Real Goal13:28 Classes Lead to Obedience14:15 Accountability in Life Groups15:48 Life on Life Discipleship17:56 Intentional Community Beyond Meetings20:03 Measuring Spiritual Growth22:25 Women and Discipleship23:46 Discipleship at Home24:52 State of Church Discipleship27:06 Get Involved at River City28:13 Easter Invitation and Closing

As Easter is this weekend, Sean explains that the church's goal isn't crowds but making disciples—passionate followers of Jesus who learn Scripture and obey it—often through intentional, relational, Biblical community groups with accountability and measurable habits like daily time in the Word and prayer. He discusses the need for pastors to have peer community, warns about ego on stage, affirms women's role in discipleship, and emphasizes discipling within marriage and family while equipping all believers to disciple others.00:00 Show Intro and Banter00:44 Song Credits and Spotify Plug01:20 Easter Message Preview02:16 Why Resurrection Matters03:04 Service Times and Invitation04:04 Vacation and Pastor Life05:23 Community Over Pedestals07:13 Easter Crowds vs Disciples07:59 What Discipleship Means09:00 Growing Disciples Who Disciple12:13 Great Commission and Real Goal13:28 Classes Lead to Obedience14:15 Accountability in Life Groups15:48 Life on Life Discipleship17:56 Intentional Community Beyond Meetings20:03 Measuring Spiritual Growth22:25 Women and Discipleship23:46 Discipleship at Home24:52 State of Church Discipleship27:06 Get Involved at River City28:13 Easter Invitation and Closing