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Thank you for joining us this week for worship! In our seventh study of our Follow Me series, we begin chapter 6 of Matthew where Pastor Bobby discusses generous giving and breaking down the Lord's prayer.
In a culture that builds relationships on butterflies and emotions, what happens when the feeling fades?This message dives into what real, biblical commitment looks like. Love isn't just chemistry. It's not just attraction. And it's definitely not just a vibe. According to Scripture, love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, and endures all things. Marriage wasn't created by culture — it was created by God.Authentic Church 2416 N Center St Hickory, NC 28601 (Beside Planet Fitness) GIVING To support this ministry and help us continue to reach people all around the world click here: https://authenticchurch.com/give GET CONNECTED Ready to check out Authentic Church in person? We can't wait to meet you in person. Simply fill out the form below and we'll make sure to give you the VIP treatment upon your first visit. https://authenticchurch.com/plan-a-visit ABOUT AUTHENTIC CHURCH Authentic Church exists so that people will have an authentic encounter with God, be set free, and grow in Christ. Our mission is to help each person at Authentic believe in Jesus, belong to family, inspire true worship, walk in God's Spirit, and build the kingdom of God.
This week, Anthony and Pastor Bobby recap a powerful Sunday as we wrapped up the Oasis Initiative and stepped into a big faith moment together as a church.They revisit the woman at the well in Gospel of John 4 and unpack what it really means that Jesus “had to” go through Samaria. The conversation moves from divine appointments to the difference between peace and comfort, and the subtle ways we turn good things into ultimate things. It's an honest look at obedience, surrender, and what it means to leave the bucket behind.
In this Commitment Sunday message, Pastor Bobby brings us back to the well in John 4 and reminds us what all of this is really about.Through Jesus' conversation with the woman at the well, we see a Savior who meets people right where they are and offers something deeper than what they came looking for. It's a simple story, but it carries a powerful reminder: when Jesus becomes our source, everything shifts.As we take steps forward in The Oasis Initiative, this message helps ground our hearts. This isn't just about building space — it's about making room for encounters with Christ. We're believing for a church where His life flows freely and where people in our city can truly find Living Water.
February 22, 2026 | Commander of Chaos | Pastor Bobby Williamson
Love isn't broken — our definition of it is.In a culture that says “follow your heart,” what if your heart isn't a safe compass? What if feelings aren't meant to lead your relationships?In this message, we dive deep into what the Bible actually says about love, marriage, singleness, lust, waiting, and why marriage was never meant to fix you — Jesus was.Authentic Church 2416 N Center St Hickory, NC 28601 (Beside Planet Fitness) GIVING To support this ministry and help us continue to reach people all around the world click here: https://authenticchurch.com/give GET CONNECTED Ready to check out Authentic Church in person? We can't wait to meet you in person. Simply fill out the form below and we'll make sure to give you the VIP treatment upon your first visit. https://authenticchurch.com/plan-a-visit ABOUT AUTHENTIC CHURCH Authentic Church exists so that people will have an authentic encounter with God, be set free, and grow in Christ. Our mission is to help each person at Authentic believe in Jesus, belong to family, inspire true worship, walk in God's Spirit, and build the kingdom of God.
Thank you for joining us today for worship! We continue our Follow Me series by completing chapter 5 of Matthew. Pastor Bobby discusses retaliation and loving our enemies as part of Jesus's teachings in the Sermon on the Mount.
February 15, 2026 | Loving the Untouchables | Pastor Bobby Williamson
In this episode of NorthWoods Church Matters, Lexi sits down with Pastor Bobby, Pastor Matt and our new Communications Director, Jim Miller to discuss how NorthWoods Church chooses worship music and why transparency matters. The four discuss how discernment and intentionality in song choices can: Prepare our hearts for God's word. Elevate our view of God. Advance the mission of NorthWoods Discover alternative resources for Worship Help us navigate when division is needed Pastor Matt's Toolbox of References: Kevin Twit & Indelible Grace Mike Winger's 6 hour Expose on the Bethel Scandal Keith & Kristyn Getty - Getty Music Sing Conference Sovereign Grace Music City Alight ____________________________________ Want to learn more about NorthWoods Church? Contact us at https://www.northwoodschurch.org/ Follow us on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/northwoodschurchevv Watch our Live Sermons on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/@northwoodschurchevv
What is love—really?In a culture that defines love by feelings, pleasure, and convenience, God offers a very different definition. In this message, we dive into Scripture to uncover what real love looks like—love that is rooted in sacrifice, commitment, and truth.From the church of Corinth to modern culture, the struggle hasn't changed. When love becomes self-focused, relationships suffer. But when love is anchored in Christ, healing, freedom, and restoration are possible.Authentic Church 2416 N Center St Hickory, NC 28601 (Beside Planet Fitness) GIVING To support this ministry and help us continue to reach people all around the world click here: https://authenticchurch.com/give GET CONNECTED Ready to check out Authentic Church in person? We can't wait to meet you in person. Simply fill out the form below and we'll make sure to give you the VIP treatment upon your first visit. https://authenticchurch.com/plan-a-visit ABOUT AUTHENTIC CHURCH Authentic Church exists so that people will have an authentic encounter with God, be set free, and grow in Christ. Our mission is to help each person at Authentic believe in Jesus, belong to family, inspire true worship, walk in God's Spirit, and build the kingdom of God.
Thank you for joining us today for worship! In our fifth Follow Me sermon, Pastor Bobby takes a look at Jesus' teaching on divorce and oaths from Matthew 5:31-37.
Romans 4: 17As it is written: “I have made you a father of many nations.” He is our father in the sight of God, in whom he believed—the God who gives life to the dead and calls into being things that were not. 18 Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed and so became the father of many nations, just as it had been said to him, “So shall your offspring be.” 19 Without weakening in his faith, he faced the fact that his body was as good as dead—since he was about a hundred years old—and that Sarah's womb was also dead. 20 Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, 21 being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised. Whether or no you've been on a big boat, you know a little about how they work. You know they throw an anchor out when they want the boat to hang out there a while. Well that's what we want our faith to do. So our patience helps us in that sense. So in today's teaching we're looking at how it significantly amplifies the effectiveness of faith when you hook up faith with patience. Pastor Bobby calls them the dynamic duo or The Power Twins. Thanks for joining us for this dynamic teaching on Faith and Love!Support the showGrowing our inner man as we connect with God's Word
The Inward Battle is a fight every believer knows all too well—the struggle between knowing what's right and still doing what's wrong.In this message from our Still Growing series, we look at the life of King Solomon—a man given supernatural wisdom by God, yet undone by inner conflict, unchecked desire, and small compromises. Through Ecclesiastes and 1 Kings, we uncover why knowledge alone isn't enough, how pleasure becomes a trap, and how the wrong relationships can slowly turn our hearts away from God.If you've ever felt frustrated with yourself…If you've ever wondered why growth feels harder the longer you follow Jesus…If you're tired of fighting the same battles on the inside…Authentic Church 2416 N Center St Hickory, NC 28601 (Beside Planet Fitness) GIVING To support this ministry and help us continue to reach people all around the world click here: https://authenticchurch.com/give GET CONNECTED Ready to check out Authentic Church in person? We can't wait to meet you in person. Simply fill out the form below and we'll make sure to give you the VIP treatment upon your first visit. https://authenticchurch.com/plan-a-visit ABOUT AUTHENTIC CHURCH Authentic Church exists so that people will have an authentic encounter with God, be set free, and grow in Christ. Our mission is to help each person at Authentic believe in Jesus, belong to family, inspire true worship, walk in God's Spirit, and build the kingdom of God.
February 1, 2026 | A Love That Stays | Pastor Bobby Williamson
In this week's episode of Digging Deeper, Anthony and Pastor Bobby unpack the heart behind The Oasis Initiative and the vision God is shaping at Rise City Church. This conversation invites us to see how God brings life, growth, and transformation—and how we can be part of what He's doing next.
In this conversation, Cole Phillips and Pastor Bobby discuss the significance of the Bible, addressing its trustworthiness, the challenges of understanding it, and practical ways to engage with scripture. They emphasize the importance of community in reading the Bible, the historical and archaeological evidence supporting its claims, and the role of prophecy. The discussion culminates in practical advice for applying biblical teachings to daily life and the necessity of submitting to its guidance.KeywordsBible, trust, scripture, Jesus, prophecy, reading, understanding, faith, church, communityTakeawaysThe Bible is considered the most important book in existence.In-person gatherings are vital for community worship.Many struggle with understanding the Bible due to distractions.The Bible claims to be God-breathed and true.Jesus affirmed the trustworthiness of the Bible.Historical evidence supports the accuracy of biblical texts.Prophecy plays a significant role in validating the Bible.Practical reading plans can enhance understanding of scripture.Application of scripture is essential for personal growth.Submitting to the Bible is crucial for a believer's life.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Bible's Importance05:32 Understanding and Engaging with the Bible11:23 Jesus' Perspective on the Bible17:20 Historical and Archaeological Evidence22:52 Practical Approaches to Reading the Bible27:31 The Call to Action and Submission to Scripture
January 25, 2026 | Jesus According to John | Pastor Bobby Williamson
Even the wisest man who ever lived didn't fall overnight.In this message, we walk through the life of King Solomon and uncover how small compromises, unguarded emotions, bitterness, and misplaced priorities can slowly pull a heart away from God. You can know what's right, love God deeply, and still drift—if your heart isn't guarded.This sermon challenges us to examine what we're allowing into our hearts, what we're holding onto, and what we may be slowly worshiping without realizing it. Authentic Church 2416 N Center St Hickory, NC 28601 (Beside Planet Fitness) GIVING To support this ministry and help us continue to reach people all around the world click here: https://authenticchurch.com/give GET CONNECTED Ready to check out Authentic Church in person? We can't wait to meet you in person. Simply fill out the form below and we'll make sure to give you the VIP treatment upon your first visit. https://authenticchurch.com/plan-a-visit ABOUT AUTHENTIC CHURCH Authentic Church exists so that people will have an authentic encounter with God, be set free, and grow in Christ. Our mission is to help each person at Authentic believe in Jesus, belong to family, inspire true worship, walk in God's Spirit, and build the kingdom of God.
1-19-2026
When God asks a question, it's never because He needs an answer—it's because we do.In this message, we look at the powerful moments in Scripture when God asks questions that reveal the true condition of the human heart. From Solomon's defining encounter with God to the first questions asked in the Garden of Eden, we discover that God's questions are invitations—into surrender, repentance, wisdom, and intimacy.This sermon challenges us to examine:What we truly desire when God says, “Ask, and I will give.” How small compromises slowly drift our hearts away from GodWhy obedience creates clarity—and convenience creates distanceThe difference between worldly intelligence and godly wisdomHow surrender positions us to actually hear God's voiceIf you've been asking God for relief, direction, or clarity, this message will help you shift your prayers toward wisdom—and align your heart with what God treasures most. Authentic Church 2416 N Center St Hickory, NC 28601 (Beside Planet Fitness) GIVING To support this ministry and help us continue to reach people all around the world click here: https://authenticchurch.com/give GET CONNECTED Ready to check out Authentic Church in person? We can't wait to meet you in person. Simply fill out the form below and we'll make sure to give you the VIP treatment upon your first visit. https://authenticchurch.com/plan-a-visit ABOUT AUTHENTIC CHURCH Authentic Church exists so that people will have an authentic encounter with God, be set free, and grow in Christ. Our mission is to help each person at Authentic believe in Jesus, belong to family, inspire true worship, walk in God's Spirit, and build the kingdom of God.
Pastor Bobby emphasizes the importance of prayer and fasting in the life of believers, highlighting how these practices can deepen one's relationship with God and empower them to overcome spiritual challenges. The discussion also covers the significance of communion, the authority given to believers, and the necessity of teaching prayer to foster spiritual growth.
1-11-2026
Thank you for joining us today for worship! In our second week of our Follow Me series, we begin chapter 5 as Pastor Bobby walks us through the Beatitudes given during the sermon on the mount.
This week on the NorthWoods Church Matters podcast, Lexi sits down with Pastor Bobby for an extended follow-up to Sunday's sermon, exploring the deeper layers beneath Exodus 17–18 and what it means to live with prayerful dependence in 2026. Together, they unpack why the real battle isn't won by effort alone, but by dependence on God, and why prayer is not an accessory to the Christian life, but the engine. Pastor Bobby explains the powerful image of Moses' raised hands, the role of Aaron and Hur, and how community prayer sustains faith when we grow weary. They also dive into practical theology: what it truly means to pray "in Jesus' name," why evangelism flows best from compassion rather than obligation, and how prayer reshapes the way we see and love others. A key focus of the conversation is the Circles, a simple way to identify people God has already placed in our lives who need Jesus. Click here to print your copy and get using it today!
A new year doesn't automatically mean a new heart.In this message, we confront the subtle, often unnoticed compromises that slowly drift us away from God. Drawing from the life of King Solomon, we see how wisdom alone isn't enough when obedience is partial and the heart becomes divided.Small compromises don't feel dangerous at first—but what you tolerate today can dominate you tomorrow.This sermon will challenge you to:Stop confusing good intentions with obedienceRecognize the danger of divided devotionTear down the “high places” God never approvedChoose surrender over convenienceGod isn't asking for part of your heart—He's asking for the throne. Authentic Church 2416 N Center St Hickory, NC 28601 (Beside Planet Fitness) GIVING To support this ministry and help us continue to reach people all around the world click here: https://authenticchurch.com/give GET CONNECTED Ready to check out Authentic Church in person? We can't wait to meet you in person. Simply fill out the form below and we'll make sure to give you the VIP treatment upon your first visit. https://authenticchurch.com/plan-a-visit ABOUT AUTHENTIC CHURCH Authentic Church exists so that people will have an authentic encounter with God, be set free, and grow in Christ. Our mission is to help each person at Authentic believe in Jesus, belong to family, inspire true worship, walk in God's Spirit, and build the kingdom of God.
Happy New Year! Thank you for joining us today for worship! In our first Sunday of 2026 we begin a new sermon series entitle Follow Me: The Way of the Kingdom. Pastor Bobby starts by looking at the end portion of chapter 4 which depicts the start of Jesus' ministry. We'll spend the next few months leading to Easter looking at the Sermon on the Mount.
In this message, Pastor Bobby unpacks the biblical discipline of fasting—not as a religious obligation, but as a relational practice that deepens humility, dependence, and attentiveness to God.Rooted in Jesus' words and echoed throughout Scripture, this teaching reframes fasting as a response to longing for Christ and His Kingdom. We're reminded that we do not live by bread alone—and that true fasting doesn't stop with us, but overflows into generosity, mercy, and love for others.As we begin a new year together, this message invites our church into a renewed rhythm of prayer and fasting, trusting God to do something meaningful in and through us.
In this episode, you will hear from one of our staff pastors, Bobby Thompson. This message is meant to be encouraging and challenging. We pray it does just that!
Thank you for joining us today for worship! In our last Sunday service of 2025, Pastor Bobby recaps the last 6 months and looks ahead to 2026.
When life feels overwhelming, God invites us to trust Him with what we cannot control.In this powerful Christmas message, “Let God Handle It,” we're reminded that God often works in ways we don't expect—quietly, humbly, and ahead of every battle we face. From a manger in Bethlehem to the unseen spiritual battles behind the Christmas story, Scripture shows us that God is never late, never nervous, and never caught off guard.If you're carrying worry, pressure, or uncertainty, this message will encourage you to release control, trust God's plan, and find peace in knowing He is already at work.Join us Sunday's 8:15 | 10:00 | 11:45 Authentic Church 2416 N Center St Hickory, NC 28601 (Beside Planet Fitness) GIVING To support this ministry and help us continue to reach people all around the world click here: https://authenticchurch.com/give GET CONNECTED Ready to check out Authentic Church in person? We can't wait to meet you in person. Simply fill out the form below and we'll make sure to give you the VIP treatment upon your first visit. https://authenticchurch.com/plan-a-visit ABOUT AUTHENTIC CHURCH Authentic Church exists so that people will have an authentic encounter with God, be set free, and grow in Christ. Our mission is to help each person at Authentic believe in Jesus, belong to family, inspire true worship, walk in God's Spirit, and build the kingdom of God.
12-21-25
Before the world ever encountered Jesus, God sent a messenger to prepare the way. In the opening of Mark's Gospel, we're introduced not to the Savior first—but to John the Baptist, a man shaped by purpose, humility, and the power of the Holy Spirit.In this message, Pastor Bobby reminds us that for many people, their first impression of Jesus comes through the lives of those who follow Him. The way we live, speak, and love has the power to either point others toward Christ or distract from who He is.
This week on Digging Deeper, Jeremy and Pastor Bobby reflect on a powerful weekend at Rise City — from meaningful baptisms to a timely conversation about joy.They unpack what joy really is (and what it isn't), why happiness and joy aren't the same thing, and how the presence of Jesus becomes our steady source in every season. Through stories, Scripture, and honest reflection, this episode explores how distraction, busyness, and divided focus can quietly rob us of joy — and how choosing presence helps us reclaim it.
The Christmas story is more than a peaceful nativity scene—it was the result of a spiritual war.In The Unseen Battle, we explore Scripture from Genesis to Revelation to uncover the war in heaven that took place before Jesus was born. This message reveals the mission behind the manger, the enemy's deception, and how Christ's victory still gives us authority today.The silent night was fought for—and Heaven won.Join us Sunday's 8:15 | 10:00 | 11:45 Authentic Church 2416 N Center St Hickory, NC 28601 (Beside Planet Fitness) GIVING To support this ministry and help us continue to reach people all around the world click here: https://authenticchurch.com/give GET CONNECTED Ready to check out Authentic Church in person? We can't wait to meet you in person. Simply fill out the form below and we'll make sure to give you the VIP treatment upon your first visit. https://authenticchurch.com/plan-a-visit ABOUT AUTHENTIC CHURCH Authentic Church exists so that people will have an authentic encounter with God, be set free, and grow in Christ. Our mission is to help each person at Authentic believe in Jesus, belong to family, inspire true worship, walk in God's Spirit, and build the kingdom of God.
12-14-25
What if your faith was never meant to end with you? In this message, “Faith That Outlives You,” Pastor Bobby reveals how the spirit of fear works to intimidate believers—and how God has already given us power, love, and a sound mind to overcome it.Through the stories of David and Nehemiah, we learn why real faith doesn't just build for today… it builds for generations. The enemy isn't only attacking your present—he's after your legacy. But when you rise and build what God has called you to, nothing in hell can stop it.If this message impacts you, share it with someone who needs encouragement.
In this message, “Pressure in the Blessing,” Pastor Bobby explains why every blessing from God comes with weight, responsibility, and purpose. Using the story of Abraham and the parable of the talents, you'll learn why God doesn't give blessings randomly—and why fear often causes us to bury what God is calling us to build.If you've ever felt overwhelmed by what God placed in your hands, this sermon will help you trust Him, steward well, and step into the purpose behind the blessing.Join us Sunday's 8:15 | 10:00 | 11:45 Authentic Church2416 N Center St Hickory, NC 28601 (Beside Planet Fitness) GIVINGTo support this ministry and help us continue to reach people all around the world click here: https://authenticchurch.com/give GET CONNECTEDReady to check out Authentic Church in person? We can't wait to meet you in person. Simply fill out the form below and we'll make sure to give you the VIP treatment upon your first visit. https://authenticchurch.com/plan-a-visit ABOUT AUTHENTIC CHURCHAuthentic Church exists so that people will have an authentic encounter with God, be set free, and grow in Christ. Our mission is to help each person at Authentic believe in Jesus, belong to family, inspire true worship, walk in God's Spirit, and build the kingdom of God.
Are you living by feelings… or by faith?In this message, “Living Out Impossible Faith,” Pastor Bobby Chandler breaks down what it really means to hold onto a God-given vision — even when it takes years to build, when doubt whispers, and when the timing feels slow.Discover:• How faith truly grows (Romans 10:17)• What a God-vision actually is — and what it is NOT• Why every God vision requires God timing• How Abraham, Joseph, and David waited decades and still walked into promise• The simple prayer that defeats doubt: “Help my unbelief.”• Why mustard-seed faith is more powerful than you think• How Authentic Church has lived this journey from a small seed to a global ministryThis sermon will help you protect the vision, overcome doubt, and follow God step by step into what He has already spoken over your life.If you've ever wondered, “Am I really hearing God?” or “Why is this taking so long?” — this message will breathe courage into your faith.Join us Sunday's 8:15 | 10:00 | 11:45 Authentic Church 2416 N Center St Hickory, NC 28601 (Beside Planet Fitness) GIVING To support this ministry and help us continue to reach people all around the world click here: https://authenticchurch.com/give GET CONNECTED Ready to check out Authentic Church in person? We can't wait to meet you in person. Simply fill out the form below and we'll make sure to give you the VIP treatment upon your first visit. https://authenticchurch.com/plan-a-visit ABOUT AUTHENTIC CHURCH Authentic Church exists so that people will have an authentic encounter with God, be set free, and grow in Christ. Our mission is to help each person at Authentic believe in Jesus, belong to family, inspire true worship, walk in God's Spirit, and build the kingdom of God.