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Why is humility so hard in today's world — and why does it matter so much? In this Neighborhood Church Pause podcast, Philippians 2:1-11 is unpacked and digs deeper into Sunday's message, "Unity Through Humility." From the dangers of social media and self-promotion culture to the heartbreaking rise in youth suicide rates, a compelling case is made for why choosing humility and peace over pride can literally change the world around you. Plus, discover why true humility isn't thinking less of yourself — it's thinking of yourself less! Join us Sundays at 9AM & 10:30AM at Neighborhood Church. #UnityThroughHumility #NeighborhoodChurch #Philippians #JesusIsEnough #HumilityMatters #ChristianPodcast #PeaceOverPride #ThinkOfYourselfLess #ChurchCommunity #FaithAndCulture
In this follow-up conversation, Pastor Mark unpacks his powerful message "In It Together" from Philippians 1:27-30. Discover what it really means to live as a citizen of heaven, why unity is found in the Spirit — not uniformity — and how to stand and fight for the Gospel without fear or intimidation. Plus, Pastor Mark shares a raw, honest take on suffering as a gift and closes with a heartfelt prayer for anyone walking through a hard season right now. You are not alone — we are in this together! Join us Sundays at 9AM & 10:30AM at Neighborhood Church.#NeighborhoodChurch #InItTogether #JesusIsEnough #ChristianPodcast #Philippians #SufferingAndFaith #CitizensOfHeaven #HolySpirit #ChurchCommunity #FightForTheFaith #PausePodcast
Families matter — and they're worth fighting for! In this powerful Together Sunday message from Neighborhood Church, Elder Eric preaches from Philippians 1:20–26 on what it means to build a Christ-centered family. From Paul choosing to stay for the sake of others, to the bold declaration of Joshua 24:15 — this message is a battle cry for every parent, grandparent, and young person.#FamiliesMatter #FightForYourFamily #Philippians1 #AsForMeAndMyHouse #Joshua2415 #NeighborhoodChurch #ChristianFamily #GenerationalFaith #ChristCentered #FamilySermon #TogetherSunday
What does it really mean to be a Christian? In this message from Neighborhood Church, Pastor Mark digs into Philippians 1:12–19 and the bold reality of proclaiming the gospel under pressure. From Paul chained to Roman guards, to the early church praying for boldness instead of safety, to 388 million persecuted Christians today — this is a powerful reminder that following Jesus has always been costly. But the gospel keeps spreading. Are you ready to know what you believe and why? Share it boldly, gently, and without apology. Jesus is worth it.#GospelUnderPressure #Philippians1 #PersecutedChurch #JesusIsEnough #NeighborhoodChurch #ChristianSermon #BoldnessInFaith #Acts4 #PaulInPrison #EarlyChurch
We discuss Jesus speaking in John 5 and what it might look like to step into the flow of divine love. The post Enter the flow first appeared on Neighborhood Church.
In this special Pause Podcast episode, members of Neighborhood Church share their heartfelt stories about what their mothers mean to them — from sacrifice and selfless love, to faith passed down through generations. Whether your relationship with your mom is simple or complicated, close or distant, this video is a beautiful reminder of the strength, grace, and love that mothers carry. If your mom is still with you, go give her a hug today. And to every mother watching — you are seen, you are celebrated, and your love matters more than you know. Happy Mother's Day!#MothersDay #HonoringMoms #ChristianMothersDay #NeighborhoodChurch #FaithAndMotherhood #GenerationalFaith #MomLife #HappyMothersDay #MothersDayStories #GodBlessMoms #PausePodcast
Happy Mother's Day! In this special message from Neighborhood Church, Pastor Mark celebrates women of faith by taking us through the powerful stories of Hannah and Mary. From Hannah's desperate prayer at the tabernacle to Mary's courageous "yes" to God — these women changed the course of history not through perfection, but through faith. Whether you're a mother, a daughter, or simply someone who's been shaped by a woman of faith, this message is for you. Your faith matters — not just for today, but for generations to come. Be encouraged!#MothersDay #WomenOfFaith #HannahAndMary #GenerationalFaith #NeighborhoodChurch #MothersDaySermon #Luke1 #1Samuel #ChristianFaith #FaithMatters
Thecla was a strong, fierce woman who found sacredness in unlikely spaces….apart from men. A true saint that inspired countless women, trans folk and others who have been left behind in the wake of patriarchy and belonging. The post Unnamed: Thecla first appeared on Neighborhood Church.
The fall is real — but so is God's pursuit of us! In this episode of Pause, the Neighborhood Church podcast, Eric and Pastor Mark dig deeper into the second message of the Greatest Story Ever Told series. From the subtle lies of the enemy in Genesis 3, to Cain and Abel, to the real battle we face spiritually every day — this conversation is honest, relatable, and full of hope. Plus, why community matters more than you think, and why God's first response after the fall was to come looking for us. He's still knocking. Will you answer?#Genesis3 #TheFall #GodPursuesUs #GreatestStoryEverTold #NeighborhoodChurch #PausePodcast #SpiritualWarfare #ChristianFaith #SinAndGrace #JesusIsKnocking
Rachel inspired an entire community of people to think critically of their faith. To leave behind toxic stories of exclusion and power and move with wonder and curiosity towards better stories of sacredness and belonging. The post Unnamed: Rachel Held Evans first appeared on Neighborhood Church.
God is good — all the time!
We started a new series on people who have brought hope and joy to countless people but in ways that can fall outside of what we might dignify as “saintlike.” We look at the story in Mark 14 where Jesus says that no one will ever forget this woman who washed his feet!!!!!!!! only to… The post UnNamed: Unlikely Saints first appeared on Neighborhood Church.
What does the resurrection of Jesus actually mean for your everyday life? In this episode of Pause, the Neighborhood Church podcast, Pastor Mark goes deeper on his Easter Sunday message — Restoration Through Resurrection. From spiritual life and death, to broken relationships, to the breathtaking promise of a renewed heaven and earth, this conversation is both practical and full of hope. Plus, Pastor Mark answers the question we all need to sit with: Do you know your status with God? If you're searching for hope, this one is for you. He is risen — and that changes everything.#RestorationThroughResurrection #EasterSunday #HeIsRisen #NeighborhoodChurch #PausePodcast #SpirituallyAlive #Reconciliation #NewCreation #ChristianFaith #EasterHope
The Neighborhood Church is a warm congregation that welcomes everyone to join us regardless of where you may be on your faith journey. We are part of the United Church of Christ honoring the reality that each human life is precious and deeply loved by God. As a community of faith, we are empowered by the inclusive love of Jesus. We nurture faith development where all are encouraged to grow as disciples of the Christ of love and justice. Whoever you are and wherever you may be on your faith journey, there’s a place for you here.
The Neighborhood Church is a warm congregation that welcomes everyone to join us regardless of where you may be on your faith journey. We are part of the United Church of Christ honoring the reality that each human life is precious and deeply loved by God. As a community of faith, we are empowered by the inclusive love of Jesus. We nurture faith development where all are encouraged to grow as disciples of the Christ of love and justice. Whoever you are and wherever you may be on your faith journey, there’s a place for you here.
The Neighborhood Church is a warm congregation that welcomes everyone to join us regardless of where you may be on your faith journey. We are part of the United Church of Christ honoring the reality that each human life is precious and deeply loved by God. As a community of faith, we are empowered by the inclusive love of Jesus. We nurture faith development where all are encouraged to grow as disciples of the Christ of love and justice. Whoever you are and wherever you may be on your faith journey, there’s a place for you here.
Celebrating the tradition on Easter at Neighborhood. Sauter discusses the miracle of resurrection playing out in relationships and why it’s good news for all of us….including those who have deconstructed. The post Easter!!!!! Resurrection & Relationship first appeared on Neighborhood Church.
He is risen! In this Easter Sunday message from Neighborhood Church, Pastor Mark unpacks what the resurrection of Jesus means for your life right now — not just 2,000 years ago. Through Matthew 28, discover three powerful ways the resurrection brings restoration: it makes the spiritually dead come alive, it restores broken relationships, and one day it will make everything new. Whether you're exploring faith or a longtime follower of Jesus, this message is full of hope and honesty. The resurrection isn't just a story — it's a lived reality that changes everything. #EasterSunday #HeIsRisen #ResurrectionSunday #Matthew28 #NeighborhoodChurch #EasterSermon #JesusIsAlive #Restoration #NewCreation #ChristianFaith
What are you missing when you read familiar Bible stories too fast? In this episode of Pause, the Neighborhood Church podcast, we unpack the Palm Sunday message from Matthew 21 — and are challenged to slow down and truly observe Scripture. From the turning point of Jesus publicly accepting His title as Son of David, to the crowd from Bethany, to the donkey that says it all — there's so much we rush past. Plus, one unforgettable statement: Crown Him or kill Him. There's no middle ground with Jesus. He comes to us humbly, but He will force us to make a choice. Are you ready to meet the King?PalmSunday #CrownHimOrKillHim #Matthew21 #TriumphalEntry #NeighborhoodChurch #PausePodcast #MeetTheKing #HolyWeek #JesusIsKing #EasterSeason
Join Pastor Scott for his message on Palm Sunday 2026.
Join Pastor Scott for his message on Palm Sunday 2026.
Join Pastor Scott for his message on Palm Sunday 2026.
In this message from Neighborhood Church, we walk through Matthew 21 and challenged to slow down and truly observe Scripture. From two blind men calling Jesus "Son of David," to a donkey that changes everything, discover the confrontational, conflicting, and transforming nature of Jesus' kingship. He doesn't sneak into Jerusalem — and He doesn't sneak into our lives either. Crown Him or reject Him, but there's no in between. This Palm Sunday message will change how you read this story.#PalmSunday #Matthew21 #TriumphalEntry #JesusIsKing #HolyWeek #NeighborhoodChurch #CrownHim #Easter2026 #SonOfDavid
What happens when life doesn't go the way you planned? In this episode of Pause, the Neighborhood Church podcast, Pastor Mark unpacks his Sunday message on resurrection — going deeper than Easter Sunday. Drawing from John 11 and the story of Lazarus, he explores what it really means to trust God when dreams die. From projecting past pain onto your future, to understanding that God is never distant from your suffering, this conversation is honest, personal, and full of hope. If you're in a hard season, this one's for you. Jesus is the resurrection — and that changes everything.
Have you ever had a dream die? In this powerful message from Neighborhood Church, Pastor Mark walks us through John 11 — the raising of Lazarus — and asks the question we all need to sit with: When dreams die, will you still trust God's plan? Through the story of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus, we're reminded that God's delays are not denials, that Jesus weeps with us in our pain, and that new life often only comes through death first. If you're in a season of loss, grief, or disappointment, this message is for you. There is hope — resurrection is coming!#RaisingOfLazarus #John11 #WhenDreamsDie #TrustGod #Resurrection #NeighborhoodChurch #EasterSeries #ChristianSermon #FaithInHardTimes #JesusIsTheResurrection
What does it really mean to forgive? In this episode of Pause, a Neighborhood Church podcast, Eric shares a powerful, compassionate message on forgiveness and healing. Learn why forgiveness doesn't mean pretending everything's okay, why reconciliation isn't always possible, and how releasing others actually sets you free. Eric opens up about his own journey with his father, helping us see that forgiveness is less about the other person and more about healing your own heart. Whether you're the one who's been hurt or the one who caused harm, there's something here for you. You are not alone — healing is possible! #Forgiveness #Healing #ChristianPodcast #NeighborhoodChurch #PausePodcast #Faith #Unforgiveness #BibleTeaching #ChurchOnline #JesusHeals
What makes a good neighbor? Join Natalie, Neighborhood Church's missions pastor, for this powerful Global Encounters message! Discover two simple truths from the Good Samaritan: a good neighbor SEES and a good neighbor DOES something. Explore why the priest and temple assistant crossed the road—they cared more about reputation than compassion. Learn why unneighborly doesn't mean grouchy—it means doing nothing. Whether you're called overseas or staying put, this is YOUR neighborhood—no excuses! Includes Brandon Heath's "Give Me Your Eyes" prayer and practical missions steps: pray, give, go, send!#GoodSamaritan, #GoodNeighbor, #MissionsSermon, #GiveMeYourEyes, #EMTTestimony, #SeeingWithCompassion, #DoSomething, #GlobalEncounters, #PrayGiveGoSend, #YourNeighborhood
Sauter launches new series where we talk on the theological importance of Jesus asking a question of “who do you say that I am?” The post Who do you say that I am? first appeared on Neighborhood Church.
Open Hands, 2 of 2 from February 22, 2026 “How we receive and share gifts from God shows how whole our heart is.” 1 Chronicles 29 by Michael Lockstampfor (@miklocks)SUMMARYThis sermon explores 1 Chronicles 29 to understand Neighborhood Church's value of holding God's gifts with open hands. Using King David's example of generous giving toward building God's temple, Pastor Michael explains that God's generosity toward us should spur our devotion to His work, and that how we receive and share gifts from God reveals the condition of our hearts.REFLECTION & DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
Facing temptation? You're not alone—even Jesus was tempted! Join Eric from Neighborhood Church for this powerful message on overcoming temptation. Discover two dangerous mindsets: "I don't have temptations" and "Mine aren't that bad." Learn from Jesus's wilderness battle why knowing your identity matters, and how you CAN say "NO" to the tempter. Explore King David's fatal mistake—not being where he should be—and how it led to adultery and murder. Eric shares his honest testimony about pulling back from friendships that brought out the "old Chi-town Eric." Sin makes you hide, but Jesus stands knocking, ready to restore. #OvercomingTemptation, #JesusSaidNo, #IdentityInChrist, #TemptationSermon, #KingDavidLesson, #HidingFromGod, #JesusKnocking, #GodConfidence, #ResurrectionHope, #SayYesToJesus
Eric Miller sits down with Dr. Randy Smith, senior pastor of Neighborhood Church in Sebring, Florida, founder of Great Commission Bible Institute, and director of the Christian Travel Studies Program, for a candid conversation on the Middle East, the church, and how pastors can lead with clarity in a confusing cultural moment. Randy helps cut through oversimplified narratives and algorithm-driven opinions, offering a framework for understanding the layers behind modern conflicts while keeping the main thing the main thing: starting with God's Word, not cable news. He challenges pastors to resist stereotypes, avoid partisan traps, and step into hard conversations with humility, compassion, and biblical conviction, like a referee bringing principles to both sides. The episode closes with practical direction and real hope. Randy shares how to think biblically, pray faithfully, give strategically, and engage wisely without over-spiritualizing or over-politicizing. He also highlights what is encouraging him right now as he sees Scripture, spiritual hunger, and gospel opportunities unfolding in real time. Learn more about STUDY TRIP. Check out www.buildmomentum.org to learn more about our organization and how we seek to partner with local churches in order to equip today's young Christian leaders for tomorrow's opportunities. Another great way to discover who we are? Check out THIS PODCAST
The Neighborhood Church is a warm congregation that welcomes everyone to join us regardless of where you may be on your faith journey. We are part of the United Church of Christ honoring the reality that each human life is precious and deeply loved by God. As a community of faith, we are empowered by the inclusive love of Jesus. We nurture faith development where all are encouraged to grow as disciples of the Christ of love and justice. Whoever you are and wherever you may be on your faith journey, there’s a place for you here.
The Neighborhood Church is a warm congregation that welcomes everyone to join us regardless of where you may be on your faith journey. We are part of the United Church of Christ honoring the reality that each human life is precious and deeply loved by God. As a community of faith, we are empowered by the inclusive love of Jesus. We nurture faith development where all are encouraged to grow as disciples of the Christ of love and justice. Whoever you are and wherever you may be on your faith journey, there’s a place for you here.
The Neighborhood Church is a warm congregation that welcomes everyone to join us regardless of where you may be on your faith journey. We are part of the United Church of Christ honoring the reality that each human life is precious and deeply loved by God. As a community of faith, we are empowered by the inclusive love of Jesus. We nurture faith development where all are encouraged to grow as disciples of the Christ of love and justice. Whoever you are and wherever you may be on your faith journey, there’s a place for you here.
The Neighborhood Church is a warm congregation that welcomes everyone to join us regardless of where you may be on your faith journey. We are part of the United Church of Christ honoring the reality that each human life is precious and deeply loved by God. As a community of faith, we are empowered by the inclusive love of Jesus. We nurture faith development where all are encouraged to grow as disciples of the Christ of love and justice. Whoever you are and wherever you may be on your faith journey, there’s a place for you here.
Sauter continues our series on how we can respond to the Twin Cities being occupied. We discuss the power of dismantling toxic systems through the boring everyday work of extending love to those around us. The post What Now? Eternal life looks like more like a ditch then a halo first appeared on Neighborhood Church.
Standalone from February 8, 2025“It's great to receive encouragement. It's greater to give encouragement.”Selections from Acts by Paul MutchlerSUMMARYThis sermon focuses on biblical encouragement through the life of Barnabas, showing that it's not just a kind gesture but one of the greatest gifts Christians can give and receive. Drawing on his decades of ministry, Pastor Paul Mutchler calls Neighborhood Church to reject being a passive “let them” church and instead actively encourage their roughly 300 surrounding neighbors, recognizing that each believer is uniquely wired by God to see and meet real needs.ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
The Neighborhood Church is a warm congregation that welcomes everyone to join us regardless of where you may be on your faith journey. We are part of the United Church of Christ honoring the reality that each human life is precious and deeply loved by God. As a community of faith, we are empowered by the inclusive love of Jesus. We nurture faith development where all are encouraged to grow as disciples of the Christ of love and justice. Whoever you are and wherever you may be on your faith journey, there’s a place for you here.
The Neighborhood Church is a warm congregation that welcomes everyone to join us regardless of where you may be on your faith journey. We are part of the United Church of Christ honoring the reality that each human life is precious and deeply loved by God. As a community of faith, we are empowered by the inclusive love of Jesus. We nurture faith development where all are encouraged to grow as disciples of the Christ of love and justice. Whoever you are and wherever you may be on your faith journey, there’s a place for you here.
The Neighborhood Church is a warm congregation that welcomes everyone to join us regardless of where you may be on your faith journey. We are part of the United Church of Christ honoring the reality that each human life is precious and deeply loved by God. As a community of faith, we are empowered by the inclusive love of Jesus. We nurture faith development where all are encouraged to grow as disciples of the Christ of love and justice. Whoever you are and wherever you may be on your faith journey, there’s a place for you here.
The Neighborhood Church is a warm congregation that welcomes everyone to join us regardless of where you may be on your faith journey. We are part of the United Church of Christ honoring the reality that each human life is precious and deeply loved by God. As a community of faith, we are empowered by the inclusive love of Jesus. We nurture faith development where all are encouraged to grow as disciples of the Christ of love and justice. Whoever you are and wherever you may be on your faith journey, there’s a place for you here.
The Neighborhood Church is a warm congregation that welcomes everyone to join us regardless of where you may be on your faith journey. We are part of the United Church of Christ honoring the reality that each human life is precious and deeply loved by God. As a community of faith, we are empowered by the inclusive love of Jesus. We nurture faith development where all are encouraged to grow as disciples of the Christ of love and justice. Whoever you are and wherever you may be on your faith journey, there’s a place for you here.
The Neighborhood Church is a warm congregation that welcomes everyone to join us regardless of where you may be on your faith journey. We are part of the United Church of Christ honoring the reality that each human life is precious and deeply loved by God. As a community of faith, we are empowered by the inclusive love of Jesus. We nurture faith development where all are encouraged to grow as disciples of the Christ of love and justice. Whoever you are and wherever you may be on your faith journey, there’s a place for you here.
The Neighborhood Church is a warm congregation that welcomes everyone to join us regardless of where you may be on your faith journey. We are part of the United Church of Christ honoring the reality that each human life is precious and deeply loved by God. As a community of faith, we are empowered by the inclusive love of Jesus. We nurture faith development where all are encouraged to grow as disciples of the Christ of love and justice. Whoever you are and wherever you may be on your faith journey, there’s a place for you here.
The Neighborhood Church is a warm congregation that welcomes everyone to join us regardless of where you may be on your faith journey. We are part of the United Church of Christ honoring the reality that each human life is precious and deeply loved by God. As a community of faith, we are empowered by the inclusive love of Jesus. We nurture faith development where all are encouraged to grow as disciples of the Christ of love and justice. Whoever you are and wherever you may be on your faith journey, there’s a place for you here.
The Neighborhood Church is a warm congregation that welcomes everyone to join us regardless of where you may be on your faith journey. We are part of the United Church of Christ honoring the reality that each human life is precious and deeply loved by God. As a community of faith, we are empowered by the inclusive love of Jesus. We nurture faith development where all are encouraged to grow as disciples of the Christ of love and justice. Whoever you are and wherever you may be on your faith journey, there’s a place for you here.
Presented at the 2025 Leadership Conference in Nashville, Tennessee.
The Neighborhood Church is a warm congregation that welcomes everyone to join us regardless of where you may be on your faith journey. We are part of the United Church of Christ honoring the reality that each human life is precious and deeply loved by God. As a community of faith, we are empowered by the inclusive love of Jesus. We nurture faith development where all are encouraged to grow as disciples of the Christ of love and justice. Whoever you are and wherever you may be on your faith journey, there’s a place for you here.
The Neighborhood Church is a warm congregation that welcomes everyone to join us regardless of where you may be on your faith journey. We are part of the United Church of Christ honoring the reality that each human life is precious and deeply loved by God. As a community of faith, we are empowered by the inclusive love of Jesus. We nurture faith development where all are encouraged to grow as disciples of the Christ of love and justice. Whoever you are and wherever you may be on your faith journey, there’s a place for you here.
The Neighborhood Church is a warm congregation that welcomes everyone to join us regardless of where you may be on your faith journey. We are part of the United Church of Christ honoring the reality that each human life is precious and deeply loved by God. As a community of faith, we are empowered by the inclusive love of Jesus. We nurture faith development where all are encouraged to grow as disciples of the Christ of love and justice. Whoever you are and wherever you may be on your faith journey, there’s a place for you here.