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Sunday Service (2/15/26) // Hebrews 11:8-10 (ESV) // 8 By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to a place that he was to receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going. 9 By faith he went to live in the land of promise, as in a foreign land, living in tents with Isaac and Jacob, heirs with him of the same promise. 10 For he was looking forward to the city that has foundations, whose designer and builder is God.#BibleStudy #BibleExplained #Bible #BiblicalStudies #BibleTeacher #WordOfGod #BiblicalLessons #BibleJournal #BibleReading #BibleStudyNotes #biblestudycommunity #ChicagoChurch #BibleProject #BibleVerse #Bible Website: https://mbchicago.org FOLLOW USFacebook: / mbc.chicago Instagram: / mbc.chicago TikTok: / mbc.chicago Podcasts: Listen on Apple, Spotify & others TO SUPPORT US Zelle to: info@mbchicago.org Website: https://mbchicago.org/give Venmo: https://venmo.com/mbchurch DAF Donations: https://every.org/mbc.chicago PayPal: https://paypal.com/donate/?hosted_but...
Friday Bible Study (2/13/26) // Ezra 7: 11-28 (ESV) // Ezra Sent to Teach the People // 11 This is a copy of the letter that King Artaxerxes gave to Ezra the priest, the scribe, a man learned in matters of the commandments of the Lord and his statutes for Israel:[a] 12 “Artaxerxes, king of kings, to Ezra the priest, the scribe of the Law of the God of heaven. Peace.[b] And now 13 I make a decree that anyone of the people of Israel or their priests or Levites in my kingdom, who freely offers to go to Jerusalem, may go with you. 14 For you are sent by the king and his seven counselors to make inquiries about Judah and Jerusalem according to the Law of your God, which is in your hand, 15 and also to carry the silver and gold that the king and his counselors have freely offered to the God of Israel, whose dwelling is in Jerusalem, 16 with all the silver and gold that you shall find in the whole province of Babylonia, and with the freewill offerings of the people and the priests, vowed willingly for the house of their God that is in Jerusalem. 17 With this money, then, you shall with all diligence buy bulls, rams, and lambs, with their grain offerings and their drink offerings, and you shall offer them on the altar of the house of your God that is in Jerusalem. 18 Whatever seems good to you and your brothers to do with the rest of the silver and gold, you may do, according to the will of your God. 19 The vessels that have been given you for the service of the house of your God, you shall deliver before the God of Jerusalem. 20 And whatever else is required for the house of your God, which it falls to you to provide, you may provide it out of the king's treasury.21 “And I, Artaxerxes the king, make a decree to all the treasurers in the province Beyond the River: Whatever Ezra the priest, the scribe of the Law of the God of heaven, requires of you, let it be done with all diligence, 22 up to 100 talents[c] of silver, 100 cors[d] of wheat, 100 baths[e] of wine, 100 baths of oil, and salt without prescribing how much. 23 Whatever is decreed by the God of heaven, let it be done in full for the house of the God of heaven, lest his wrath be against the realm of the king and his sons. 24 We also notify you that it shall not be lawful to impose tribute, custom, or toll on anyone of the priests, the Levites, the singers, the doorkeepers, the temple servants, or other servants of this house of God.25 “And you, Ezra, according to the wisdom of your God that is in your hand, appoint magistrates and judges who may judge all the people in the province Beyond the River, all such as know the laws of your God. And those who do not know them, you shall teach. 26 Whoever will not obey the law of your God and the law of the king, let judgment be strictly executed on him, whether for death or for banishment or for confiscation of his goods or for imprisonment.”27 Blessed be the Lord, the God of our fathers, who put such a thing as this into the heart of the king, to beautify the house of the Lord that is in Jerusalem, 28 and who extended to me his steadfast love before the king and his counselors, and before all the king's mighty officers. I took courage, for the hand of the Lord my God was on me, and I gathered leading men from Israel to go up with me.Website: https://mbchicago.org FOLLOW USFacebook: / mbc.chicago Instagram: / mbc.chicago TikTok: / mbc.chicago TO SUPPORT US Zelle to: info@mbchicago.org Website: https://mbchicago.org/give Venmo: https://venmo.com/mbchurch DAF Donations: https://every.org/mbc.chicago PayPal: https://paypal.com/donate/?hosted_but...
Pastor Daniel preaches that as the storm of God's wrath and the peace of His salvation approach, let each of us ensure we are sheltered in Christ.
Obedience - Pastor Daniel Ekwe by Victory Inheritance Ministries
Moving Away From ComfortLeaders Are Self-Led "Remember not the former things… Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?" (Isaiah 43:18–19, ESV) Friday nights in the 90s often started with a drive to the strip mall to visit the local Blockbuster. I still remember that distinct smell of a thousand plastic cases mixed with the faint scent of buttered popcorn. We'd wander the aisles aimlessly, scanning rows of movies, hoping to find something good. The New Releases wall was always empty, so we ended up with two or three classic movies. A quick scan of your Blockbuster card, some microwave popcorn, and an ice-cold Coke, and our weekend was officially set, as long as you remembered to, "Be kind, rewind." At its peak, Blockbuster had nearly nine thousand stores. Those iconic blue and yellow signs were in every town. Home entertainment ran through them. They did not compete in the market. They were the market. Then a small company showed up with red envelopes and a simple question. What if people didn't have to come to us? What if movies showed up at their door? What if there were no late fees at all? Blockbuster laughed. Netflix was a novelty. A slow option for people willing to wait. Blockbuster had momentum. They were not failing. They were winning. They were comfortable. That comfort cost them. Netflix started by mailing DVDs across the country. Then, while that model was still working, they began investing in a new idea, streaming movies through the internet. No one thought it would work. Few had the bandwidth or patience. When it did work, they leaned in harder. Soon the mailed DVDs, the model that built them, was discontinued. When online content exploded, they shifted again, producing original stories and building a global platform. Netflix was never married to a method, only its mission, "to entertain the world." Blockbuster lost because they tried to protect what they were comfortable with. Netflix won because they challenged their own comfort zones. Comfort rarely looks like failure. However, that's what it becomes when you settle into a season of success. Blockbuster did not fail because it lacked resources. It failed because it clung too tightly to what worked in a previous season. That is why the Lord says, "Remember not the former things." God is not dismissing what He has done. He is warning us not to settle there. Yesterday's success can quietly become today's blind spot if we stop perceiving what God is doing next (Isaiah 43:18–19, ESV). The Hidden Cost of Comfort There is a big cost to falling into complacency, one that should terrify a leader. It costs momentum. Momentum is built by consistently moving in the right direction over time. When you have it, everything feels easier. When you lose it, everything becomes harder. Momentum never gives you permission to coast. You are always fighting some sort of friction. If you stop adding the right amount of energy, momentum dies, and once it's gone, you may never recapture it. It costs multiplication. Multiplication is momentum that begins to compound. It takes a season of winning and turns it into sustained fruitfulness. But comfort interrupts that process. What should be multiplying suddenly starts getting managed, and management stalls growth. It costs maximum impact. The goal of a leader should be to make the greatest impact possible, leaving nothing on the table. We seek to give God the fullest return on our obedience. Comfortable leaders may stay busy, but they will never reach their maximum potential. Comfort does not destroy leaders. It limits them. Comfort becomes their ceiling. Signs You've Grown Comfortable • You reference past wins more than present opportunities. • You defend current systems more than you discern coming seasons. • You explain away holy discomfort instead of leaning into it. • You manage what exists rather than steward what God is birthing. Read those again slowly. One of them likely stung. Getting comfortable is where leadership stalls, not by failure, but in settling. You quietly trade significance for the status quo. How to Move Away From Comfort God asks, "Do you not perceive it?" He says something new is springing up. This means it is not the availability of opportunity, but your attentiveness to it. So where do we begin? 1. Start with what now feels easy. Where does your leadership no longer require faith? What can you do now without thinking that once caused you to push yourself? Ease is often the first warning sign of growing too comfortable. 2. Disrupt your routine. Growth rarely comes from big changes. It often begins with a simple disruption or change of rhythm. Delegate something you like controlling. Have the conversation you have been avoiding. Look for a new way of doing something old. 3. Choose a place to stretch your faith. Ask yourself where growth would require more faith than experience. Your maximum potential just might live on the other side of some discomfort. 4. Invite accountability into your comfortable spaces. Ask a trusted leader this question: "Where do you see me playing it safe or leaving potential untapped?" Invite feedback and discover where growth is possible. 5. Reignite hunger.Does your current vision still require God? If you fulfilled every current goal you have, would anything really change? Remember God's call on your life is immeasurably more. That has to mean more than the status quo, right? "Behold, I am doing a new thing," is an invitation to get uncomfortable again. Comfort will keep you where you are. Moving away from comfort will take you where you are called to be. Questions: 1. Where in your leadership have past wins quietly become present assumptions? In other words, what are you still doing primarily because it once worked, not because you are convinced God is calling you to do it now? 2. What area of your leadership currently feels safest, most predictable, or least dependent on God? How might that comfort be limiting your growth, influence, or maximum potential? 3. What specific discomfort is God inviting you to embrace in this next season? Name one concrete step you could take this week that would require faith, stretch your capacity, and move you away from maintenance and toward mission.
In this episode, Pastor Daniel and Pastor Ben discuss the sermon on Romans 2:6-11, "The Impartial Judge, Part 2".
In this message, Pastor Daniel Stevens begins the series We Walk by Faith by challenging us to consider how we are living: by what we see or by what we believe. Centered on 2 Corinthians 5:7, he reminds us that faith gives us confidence in the promise of eternal life and the hope of being with the Lord. Through Hebrews 11, Pastor Daniel Stevens highlights that faith is assurance in what we cannot see and trust that God rewards those who seek Him wholeheartedly.Looking at Ephesians 2:8–10, Pastor Daniel Stevens emphasizes that salvation is a gift of grace, freely given and received by faith. Like a gift waiting to be accepted, it becomes ours when we believe. Yet salvation is only the beginning. We are God's handiwork, created with intention and purpose. God has already prepared meaningful works for us to walk in. Living by faith means embracing both the gift of salvation and the calling God has placed on our lives.#WeWalkByFaith #FaithJourney #GraceAndTruth #PurposeInChrist #GoodHopeChurch #PastorDanielStevens #LiveByFaith #JesusSavesSermon Notes: https://link.goodhope.ag/faith-1-dsGiving Information: https://goodhope.ag/givingSTAY CONNECTEDYoutube: https://youtube.com/GoodHopeChurchInstagram: http://instagram.com/goodhopemnFacebook: http://fb.com/goodhopemn
Spiritual Order | Pastor Daniel Gonzales | Celebration Italia
Welcome to the weekly podcasts from Senior Pastor Neil Cameron and Apex Church. We believe in relevant, life-changing teaching and application of the Bible. Hear the inspiring messages from our Sunday services and special events.
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The Place of God in my life - Pastor Daniel Ekwe by Victory Inheritance Ministries
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Sermon for February 8, 2026
In this episode, Pastor Daniel and Pastor Ben discuss the sermon on Romans 2:6-11, "The Impartial Judge, Part 1".
Pastor Daniel teaches that as the storm of God's wrath and the peace of His salvation approach, let each of us ensure we are sheltered in Christ.
In this sermon, Pastor Daniel Stevens unpacks two powerful biblical principles that are essential for strong relationships: love and respect. He explains that these values are meant for every relationship we navigate, not just marriage. Scripture shows us that loving others and honoring them well is a defining mark of following Jesus, even when it feels difficult or countercultural.Pastor Daniel Stevens then applies these truths to marriage, highlighting how God places a special emphasis on love and respect in different ways. When relationships feel off balance, adding more love and more respect can change everything. The message ultimately challenges us to evaluate our relationship with Jesus, not just as Savior, but as Lord, trusting His guidance and allowing His love to shape how we live and love others.#LoveAndRespect #HealthyRelationships #MarriageAndFaith #WalkByFaith #ChristianLife #JesusChangesEverything #GoodHopeChurch30 Prayers: https://link.goodhope.ag/30-prayersGiving Information: https://goodhope.ag/givingSTAY CONNECTEDYoutube: https://youtube.com/GoodHopeChurchInstagram: http://instagram.com/goodhopemnFacebook: http://fb.com/goodhopemn
Pastor Daniel continues his series on the Proverbs 31 Church as a fruitful Bride who avoids what destroys kings, abides in Christ to bear much fruit, endures pruning like Joseph, keeps her lamp filled with oil, and chooses the better part that produces eternal joy.
A recent viral comedy sketch struck a nerve, not because it was outrageous, but because it felt familiar. It exposed a tension many people already feel: the gap between the Jesus they read about in Scripture and the church they often experience in real life. In 1 John 3, the apostle John names this tension with startling clarity. He takes us back to one of the Bible's oldest stories, the story of Cain and Abel, and shows us that Cain is more than a villain. Cain is a pattern. A way of thinking. A way of organizing the world around fear, rivalry, and exclusion. John warns us plainly: the way of Cain always leads to death, death in relationships, death in communities, and death within us. But he also offers hope. “We know that we have passed from death to life,” John says, “because we love one another.” This message is an honest, pastoral look at what love really is, and what it isn't. Not sentimental or performative, but costly, healing, and outward-facing. A love that lifts people up instead of shoving them down. A love that refuses to answer fear with force or hatred with more hatred. In a heavy and painful moment for our world, this sermon invites us to examine the way we are living, the stories we are believing, and the path we are choosing. Because resurrection doesn't only happen someday, it begins whenever we turn from fear to love. Join us as we listen again to John's call to choose the way of Christ, and to step again, from death to life. Join us for live worship every Saturday at 9 am and 11:45 am in Grand Terrace. Our address is 22633 Barton Rd, Grand Terrace CA, 92313--hope to see you soon! Connect with us: Instagram: @azurehills Facebook: Azure Hills Church Website: azurehills.org Podcasts: Spotify/Apple/PodBean @Azure Hills SDA Church Online Giving: If you would like to support Azure Hills Church and its ministries, visit Adventist Giving: https://adventistgiving.org/#/org/ANP... https://adventistgiving.org/#/org/ANPMBQ/envelope/start
Sunday Service (2/1/26) // Revelation 13: 11-14 (ESV) // The Second Beast // 11 Then I saw another beast rising out of the earth. It had two horns like a lamb and it spoke like a dragon. 12 It exercises all the authority of the first beast in its presence,[a] and makes the earth and its inhabitants worship the first beast, whose mortal wound was healed. 13 It performs great signs, even making fire come down from heaven to earth in front of people, 14 and by the signs that it is allowed to work in the presence of[b] the beast it deceives those who dwell on earth, telling them to make an image for the beast that was wounded by the sword and yet lived.Footnotesa. Revelation 13:12 Or on its behalfb. Revelation 13:14 Or on behalf of#DanielBatarseh #Revelation #BookofRevelation #BibleStudy #mbchicago #mbcchicago #Bible #versebyverse #sermon #sermons #sermononline #bookofrevelation #bookofrevelations #revelation #revelations #newtestament #scripture #verses #lessons #church #chicago #livechurch #churchlive #chicagochurch #chicagochurches #prophecy #prophetic #jesus #jesuschrist #israel #jerusalemWebsite: https://mbchicago.org FOLLOW US Facebook: / mbc.chicago Instagram: / mbc.chicago TikTok: / mbc.chicago Podcasts: Listen on Apple, Spotify & others TO SUPPORT USZelle to: info@mbchicago.orgWebsite: https://mbchicago.org/give Venmo: https://venmo.com/mbchurch DAF Donations: https://every.org/mbc.chicago PayPal: https://paypal.com/donate/?hosted_but... This video focuses on Revelation chapter 13, verses 11-14, discussing the emergence and characteristics of the second beast, identified as the false prophet (0:51-1:01). Pastor Daniel Batarseh outlines three main points concerning this figure: his identity, his mission, and his authority (4:06-4:45).Here's a breakdown of the key points:Identity of the Second Beast (4:47-18:45):The second beast rises "out of the earth" (5:58-6:01), differentiating him from the first beast who came from the sea. This suggests a worldly origin, rather than a divine one (9:15-10:06).He is described as having "two horns like a lamb" but speaking "like a dragon" (10:30-10:35). This signifies an outward appearance of innocence and harmlessness (11:18-11:23) but an underlying demonic influence, as his words reveal his true, Satanic nature (12:28-12:36, 17:38-17:43).The pastor emphasizes the importance of discerning false teachers by evaluating the content of their message against God's word, rather than their appearance, charisma, or supposed miracles (16:46-17:15).Mission of the Second Beast (23:48-36:15):The primary mission of the false prophet is to compel the inhabitants of the earth to worship the first beast, the Antichrist (27:10-27:31).This false prophet completes a "satanic trinity," mimicking the Holy Spirit's role by directing worship towards the Antichrist, who is presented as a false Christ (28:15-29:17, 30:21-30:31).He will leverage the Antichrist's apparent resurrection from a mortal wound (30:42-31:11) to convince people of the Antichrist's divinity and worthiness of worship (31:13-31:28).This ultimately culminates in a one-world religion focused on the Antichrist, alongside the one-world government (31:51-32:11). The pastor notes humanity's innate desire to worship, which can be misdirected towards idols (33:16-35:19).Authority of the Second Beast (36:29-45:10):The false prophet will perform "great signs," including making fire come down from heaven (37:12-37:17), which are genuine miracles.These powerful miracles are allowed by God as an act of judgment upon those who
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Friday Bible Study (1/30/26) // Ezra 7:1-10 (ESV) // Ezra Sent to Teach the People // 1 Now after this, in the reign of Artaxerxes king of Persia, Ezra the son of Seraiah, son of Azariah, son of Hilkiah, 2 son of Shallum, son of Zadok, son of Ahitub, 3 son of Amariah, son of Azariah, son of Meraioth, 4 son of Zerahiah, son of Uzzi, son of Bukki, 5 son of Abishua, son of Phinehas, son of Eleazar, son of Aaron the chief priest— 6 this Ezra went up from Babylonia. He was a scribe skilled in the Law of Moses that the Lord, the God of Israel, had given, and the king granted him all that he asked, for the hand of the Lord his God was on him.7 And there went up also to Jerusalem, in the seventh year of Artaxerxes the king, some of the people of Israel, and some of the priests and Levites, the singers and gatekeepers, and the temple servants. 8 And Ezra[a] came to Jerusalem in the fifth month, which was in the seventh year of the king. 9 For on the first day of the first month he began to go up from Babylonia, and on the first day of the fifth month he came to Jerusalem, for the good hand of his God was on him. 10 For Ezra had set his heart to study the Law of the Lord, and to do it and to teach his statutes and rules in Israel.Footnotesa. Ezra 7:8 Hebrew heWebsite: https://mbchicago.org FOLLOW US Facebook: / mbc.chicago Instagram: / mbc.chicago TikTok: / mbc.chicago Podcasts: Listen on Apple, Spotify & others TO SUPPORT US Zelle to: info@mbchicago.org Website: https://mbchicago.org/give Venmo: https://venmo.com/mbchurch DAF Donations: https://every.org/mbc.chicago PayPal: https://paypal.com/donate/?hosted_but... #Ezra #DanielBatarseh #BibleStudy #mbchicago #mbcchicago #Bible #versebyverse #church #chicago #livechurch #churchlive #chicagochurch #chicagochurches #sermon #bibleexplained #bibleproject #bibleverse #bookbybook #oldtestament #explained
Christian Living II | Mid-Week Service | Pastor Daniel Nwachinemere
What does it actually mean to surrender your life to God? Pastor Daniel Hayworth walks through Acts 13 — the moment the early church launched the first intentional missionary journey — and reveals a pattern every Christian needs to understand.Listen as Pastor Daniel explains why God only speaks to surrendered people, why He measures success by obedience rather than outcomes, and why the local church is essential to every believer's calling. Whether you're facing opposition at work, in your family, or in the culture, this episode equips you with biblical confidence to keep moving forward.You'll Learn:✅ How the Antioch church model applies to your everyday life✅ Why opposition is actually proof the gospel is advancing✅ The difference between conversion and true discipleship✅ Why you can't fulfill God's mission apart from the local churchPerfect for your morning commute or daily quiet time. Subscribe and start every week equipped with biblical truth for real-world battles.New episodes Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 7 AM CT.
Pastor Daniel Shapovalov «Count the cost» (02/01/26)Support the show
"Love: The Master Key" Pastor Daniel Kraft 2.1.26
Pastor Daniel preaches that the moralist judges by a standard he cannot meet and then falls under a condemnation he cannot escape.
In this teaching, Pastor Daniel Stevens wraps up the Unlocking the Psalms series by exploring Psalm 119, the longest chapter in Scripture and a beautiful picture of devoted discipleship. Through its rich structure and heartfelt prayers, we see how God's Word shapes our understanding, strengthens our faith, and guides our everyday obedience.This message also acknowledges the reality of struggle, correction, and perseverance. The psalmist faces adversity and personal failure, yet continually runs back to God for renewal and truth. As we celebrate Holy Communion, we are reminded that Jesus frees us from guilt and invites us to live with confidence and hope. This sermon calls us to stay faithful in every season and to keep growing in our walk with Christ.#UnlockingThePsalms #Psalm119 #WalkingWithGod #BibleStudy #SpiritualGrowth #FaithJourney #HolyCommunion #GoodHopeChurchSermon Notes: https://link.goodhope.ag/psalms-5-dsGiving Information: https://goodhope.ag/givingSTAY CONNECTEDYoutube: https://youtube.com/GoodHopeChurchInstagram: http://instagram.com/goodhopemnFacebook: http://fb.com/goodhopemn
Christian Living | Sunday Service | Pastor Daniel Nwachinemere
In this sermon Pastor Daniel continues our series on Acts as we look together at Acts 16:16-40 under the title, "What Must I Do to be Saved?" This passage reminds us that salvation is found not in our efforts, but in faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, who brings freedom, joy, and new life to all who believe.Time:MorningTexts:Acts 16:16–34Series:Acts: The Church on Fire
Pastor Daniel examines Proverbs 31 as a portrait of the Church as Christ's virtuous Bride and royal priesthood, urging temperance to avoid what destroys kings, cultivating inner valor and compassion, and putting on righteousness, God's Word, and holiness as glorious garments.
Sunday Service (1/25/26) // Revelation 13:3-10 (ESV) // The First Beast // 1 And I saw a beast rising out of the sea, with ten horns and seven heads, with ten diadems on its horns and blasphemous names on its heads. 2 And the beast that I saw was like a leopard; its feet were like a bear's, and its mouth was like a lion's mouth. And to it the dragon gave his power and his throne and great authority. 3 One of its heads seemed to have a mortal wound, but its mortal wound was healed, and the whole earth marveled as they followed the beast. 4 And they worshiped the dragon, for he had given his authority to the beast, and they worshiped the beast, saying, “Who is like the beast, and who can fight against it?”5 And the beast was given a mouth uttering haughty and blasphemous words, and it was allowed to exercise authority for forty-two months. 6 It opened its mouth to utter blasphemies against God, blaspheming his name and his dwelling,[a] that is, those who dwell in heaven. 7 Also it was allowed to make war on the saints and to conquer them.[b] And authority was given it over every tribe and people and language and nation, 8 and all who dwell on earth will worship it, everyone whose name has not been written from the foundation of the world in the book of life of the Lamb who was slain. 9 If anyone has an ear, let him hear:10 If anyone is to be taken captive, to captivity he goes; if anyone is to be slain with the sword, with the sword must he be slain. Here is a call for the endurance and faith of the saints.Footnotesa. Revelation 13:6 Or tabernacleb. Revelation 13:7 Some manuscripts omit this sentence#DanielBatarseh #Revelation #BookofRevelation #BibleStudy #mbchicago #mbcchicago #Bible #versebyverse #sermon #sermons #sermononline #bookofrevelation #bookofrevelations #revelation #revelations #newtestament #scripture #verses #lessons #church #chicago #livechurch #churchlive #chicagochurch #chicagochurches #prophecy #prophetic #jesus #jesuschrist #israel #jerusalemWebsite: https://mbchicago.org FOLLOW US Facebook: / mbc.chicago Instagram: / mbc.chicago TikTok: / mbc.chicago Podcasts: Listen on Apple, Spotify & others TO SUPPORT USZelle to: info@mbchicago.orgWebsite: https://mbchicago.org/give Venmo: https://venmo.com/mbchurch DAF Donations: https://every.org/mbc.chicago PayPal: https://paypal.com/donate/?hosted_but...
Moving Away From ComplexityLeaders Make It Better "Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every branch that does bear fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit." – John 15:2 (ESV) What is the purpose of pruning… that less… produces more As organizations, ministries, leaders grow, so does complexity. However, complexity is not a necessity. Great leaders make things better—not by adding more, but by doing less, better. As I write this, SpaceX launched its first rocket of the year early this morning. Last year set a record for the number of launches, and this year is already on track to surpass it. SpaceX has pioneered lower-cost rockets that not only launch but return safely to Earth—a concept that was considered impossible just a few years ago. But a team of the best engineers on the planet, paired with a visionary leader willing to attempt the unthinkable, proved the doubters wrong. I recently saw Elon Musk post a picture showing the evolution of their Raptor rocket engines. These engines are ultimately designed to carry humanity to Mars. But to me, the true marvel lies in how each version has been refined. Raptor 1 looked like a tangled mess of wires, tubes, and complexity. It worked, but it was difficult to build, maintain, and reproduce. Raptor 2 was a major step forward—cleaner, more streamlined, and a genuine engineering breakthrough. Yet, the team didn't stop there. Raptor 3, the latest version, is elegant in its simplicity. It's powerful, efficient, and ruthlessly refined— the result of hundreds of intentional decisions to remove what didn't belong and simplify what remained. Elon Musk's team didn't arrive here by accident. They followed a radical but effective design philosophy. "Every requirement is dumb until proven otherwise. Delete it. Simplify. Optimize. Accelerate. Only then do you automate." This isn't just how you build rockets; it's a masterclass in leading toward simplicity. When I arrived at Grace eight years ago, we found over 50 separate ministries operating under the banner of the church. Most were siloed, competing with one another for resources and attention. We made the intentional decision to move from 50 things to four. It was a deliberate shift away from complexity. It's a timeless problem. As organizations grow, complexity inevitably creeps in. Often, it's not bad things, it's good things that no longer serve the mission. Sacred cows. Outdated processes. Organizational comfort zones. If we don't intentionally prune them, we'll never move with the power and speed the Spirit desires. Remember the words of Jesus: "Every branch that does bear fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit." – John 15:2 What Space X Can Teach Leaders 1. Question Everything "Every requirement is dumb until proven otherwise." As leaders, it's our responsibility to question every process, system, and program we engage with. We should consistently ask, "Does this serve the mission?"—until we can either validate it or eliminate it. Why do we hold this meeting? How many of these programs are truly necessary? Can one person do this instead of two? Can this leader handle more responsibility? Why does it take three classes and three months to move someone toward membership? How hard is it to onboard new leaders? Why are we using more than one communication platform? Just because something worked in a past move of God doesn't mean it belongs in the next. 2. Delete, Delete, Delete You can't simplify clutter. Before you simplify, you must eliminate. Craig Groeschel challenges his leaders to keep a "stop doing list" alongside their "to-do list." It's logical—you can't add something new until you remove something old. This year, we made the decision to eliminate our Midweek Fire service to make room for the mission. We asked: Why do we need two weekly services focused on awakening—especially when Sunday is already our strongest and most effective service for that purpose? By removing the Wednesday service, we created space and opportunity for more Grace Groups to meet on campus. That shift better aligns with our vision to train and send. What weekly or monthly meeting can be eliminated or consolidated? What process or system could lose a step or two? What volunteer or leader could be repositioned or reallocated? I promise, you can do more than you think, with less than you think you need. Eliminate what no longer helps people discover life in all its fullness. 3. Clarify What Remains Once something is stripped down to its essential parts, you must then clarify it. Every program, system, activity needs a clear and identifiable win. Every leader needs a clear and simple expectation. Clarity is essential for both mission and movement. What is the win for our Sunday service? What's the expectation for Next Steps? What's the goal of your weekly connection points? What's the purpose of your one-on-one meetings? "Write the vision; make it plain… so that he may run who reads it." (Habakkuk 2:2) Clarity empowers people to run with vision. 4. Accelerate Timeframes What is your big, bold goal for this year? What if you accelerated your timeframe? Instead of going for it slowly over the year, what if you hit it hard for 90 days? Chances are you will not make it… but what if you do? Or how much further will you be along the journey because you accelerated? When you move swiftly and quickly, it might be messy, but it could also be more missional! Remember, the Acts church moved fast because they trusted the Spirit and empowered people. So can we. 5. Automate Last I love automation. This is where systems and programs operate without your constant intervention. However The temptation is to automate first. However if you automate while there is still clutter you will only create confusion. This is why automation is the last step. Today there is a wealth of tools and resources that can steam-line processes, automate tasks and communications. Before you lock them in… make sure that the process has been perfected. Leaders Make It Better This is one of Grace World's 5 Core Leadership Behaviors: Leaders Make It Better. It means we leave things better than we found them. We don't settle for "this is how we've always done it." We treat "it is what it is" like a curse word. We question everything. We eliminate what's unnecessary. We clarify constantly. We move at the speed of the Spirit. And we multiply what matters. As leaders, we take initiative to clear obstacles. We don't wait for someone else to do it. Questions 1. What is one area in your ministry you can simplify this week to make it better? 2. What is a system, step, or sacred cow that needs to be challenged? 3. Where have you settled for the status quo instead of stewarding revival? "Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life… so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody." – 1 Thessalonians 4:11–12 Follow Up Questions What is on thing you will STOP doing in the next 30 days? What is one thing you need to SIMIPLIFY in your life immediately? What is one BIG BOLD goal you can SPEED up?
Listen as Pastor Daniel interviews Pam Blair, a Christian woman running for Bell County District Clerk in the Texas primary. Perfect for your morning commute or workout, this episode will challenge you to rethink how you engage with local politics.What You'll Discover:✅ How God can call ordinary believers into the political arena✅ Why local elections often impact your life more than national races✅ The powerful testimony of a military spouse stepping into public service✅ Practical ways to evaluate candidates who share your biblical valuesPam shares her miraculous birth story, her journey to faith, and the moment God shook her world with a call to run for office. You'll also learn what a District Clerk actually does and why it matters for justice in your community.Whether you've never considered local politics or you're already engaged, this conversation will equip you with biblical perspective on civic responsibility.Subscribe now and never miss an episode. New episodes drop Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 7 AM CT.
In this episode, Pastor Daniel and Pastor Ben unpack the sermon from Romans 1:24-32, Part 5, "God's Judgement Experienced, Part 5".
Pastor Daniel preaches that the signs of God's judgement all around us should not discourage us but fuel our passion to reach our culture with the gospel.
Pastor Daniel kicks our first home edition of 2026 with the conclusion of his MORE diagnosis
Sunday Service (1/18/26) // Revelation 13:1-2 (ESV) // The First Beast // 13 And I saw a beast rising out of the sea, with ten horns and seven heads, with ten diadems on its horns and blasphemous names on its heads. 2 And the beast that I saw was like a leopard; its feet were like a bear's, and its mouth was like a lion's mouth. And to it the dragon gave his power and his throne and great authority.#DanielBatarseh #Revelation #BookofRevelation #BibleStudy #mbchicago #mbcchicago #Bible #versebyverse #sermon #sermons #sermononline #bookofrevelation #bookofrevelations #revelation #revelations #newtestament #scripture #verses #lessons #church #chicago #livechurch #churchlive #chicagochurch #chicagochurches #prophecy #prophetic #jesus #jesuschrist #israel #jerusalemWebsite: https://mbchicago.org FOLLOW US Facebook: / mbc.chicago Instagram: / mbc.chicago TikTok: / mbc.chicago Podcasts: Listen on Apple, Spotify & others TO SUPPORT USZelle to: info@mbchicago.orgWebsite: https://mbchicago.org/give Venmo: https://venmo.com/mbchurch DAF Donations: https://every.org/mbc.chicago PayPal: https://paypal.com/donate/?hosted_but...
Friday Bible Study (1/16/26) // Ezra 6:13-22 (ESV) // The Temple Finished and Dedicated // 13 Then, according to the word sent by Darius the king, Tattenai, the governor of the province Beyond the River, Shethar-bozenai, and their associates did with all diligence what Darius the king had ordered. 14 And the elders of the Jews built and prospered through the prophesying of Haggai the prophet and Zechariah the son of Iddo. They finished their building by decree of the God of Israel and by decree of Cyrus and Darius and Artaxerxes king of Persia; 15 and this house was finished on the third day of the month of Adar, in the sixth year of the reign of Darius the king.16 And the people of Israel, the priests and the Levites, and the rest of the returned exiles, celebrated the dedication of this house of God with joy. 17 They offered at the dedication of this house of God 100 bulls, 200 rams, 400 lambs, and as a sin offering for all Israel 12 male goats, according to the number of the tribes of Israel. 18 And they set the priests in their divisions and the Levites in their divisions, for the service of God at Jerusalem, as it is written in the Book of Moses.Passover Celebrated19 On the fourteenth day of the first month, the returned exiles kept the Passover. 20 For the priests and the Levites had purified themselves together; all of them were clean. So they slaughtered the Passover lamb for all the returned exiles, for their fellow priests, and for themselves. 21 It was eaten by the people of Israel who had returned from exile, and also by every one who had joined them and separated himself from the uncleanness of the peoples of the land to worship the Lord, the God of Israel. 22 And they kept the Feast of Unleavened Bread seven days with joy, for the Lord had made them joyful and had turned the heart of the king of Assyria to them, so that he aided them in the work of the house of God, the God of Israel.Website: https://mbchicago.org FOLLOW USFacebook: / mbc.chicago Instagram: / mbc.chicago TikTok: / mbc.chicago Podcasts: Listen on Apple, Spotify & others TO SUPPORT US Zelle to: info@mbchicago.org Website: https://mbchicago.org/give Venmo: https://venmo.com/mbchurch DAF Donations: https://every.org/mbc.chicago PayPal: https://paypal.com/donate/?hosted_but...
Is God's Word shaping your life or just informing it? Scripture is not simply an accessory to our lives; it's the foundation we build on and the tool God uses to shape us. As Pastor Daniel continues our “Built Different” series, he invites us to place ourselves under the authority of God's Word, allowing its wisdom to form our hearts and steer our daily choices.
Is God's Word shaping your life or just informing it? Scripture is not simply an accessory to our lives; it's the foundation we build on and the tool God uses to shape us. As Pastor Daniel continues our “Built Different” series, he invites us to place ourselves under the authority of God's Word, allowing its wisdom to form our hearts and steer our daily choices.
Listen as Pastor Daniel interviews Buddy Schwab, a church elder and successful business owner who felt God's calling to run for Bell County Justice of the Peace.In this conversation, you'll hear Buddy's powerful testimony of transformation—from growing up Catholic through divorce and financial hardship to discovering true freedom in a personal relationship with Christ. He explains what a Justice of the Peace actually does in your community, why he believes Christians must engage in local politics, and how his faith shapes his approach to serving others.Perfect for your morning commute or workout, this episode will challenge you to consider how God might be calling you to make a difference right where you live.You'll Learn:✅ What a Justice of the Peace actually handles in your community✅ Why local elections matter more than you think✅ How one man wrestled with God's calling for three years before stepping out✅ The biblical foundation for community judgesSupport Buddy's campaign at https://www.buddyschwabforjp.com/ or find "Buddy Schwab for Justice of the Peace Precinct 2" on Facebook.Subscribe now and never miss an episode dropping every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 7 AM CT.
Sunday Service (1/11/26) // Revelation 12: 13-17 (ESV) // Satan Thrown Down to Earth13 And when the dragon saw that he had been thrown down to the earth, he pursued the woman who had given birth to the male child. 14 But the woman was given the two wings of the great eagle so that she might fly from the serpent into the wilderness, to the place where she is to be nourished for a time, and times, and half a time. 15 The serpent poured water like a river out of his mouth after the woman, to sweep her away with a flood. 16 But the earth came to the help of the woman, and the earth opened its mouth and swallowed the river that the dragon had poured from his mouth. 17 Then the dragon became furious with the woman and went off to make war on the rest of her offspring, on those who keep the commandments of God and hold to the testimony of Jesus. And he stood[a] on the sand of the sea.Footnotesa. Revelation 12:17 Some manuscripts And I stood, connecting the sentence with 13:1#DanielBatarseh #Revelation #BookofRevelation #BibleStudy #mbchicago #mbcchicago #Bible #versebyverse #sermon #sermons #sermononline #bookofrevelation #bookofrevelations #revelation #revelations #newtestament #scripture #verses #lessons #church #chicago #livechurch #churchlive #chicagochurch #chicagochurches #prophecy #prophetic #jesus #jesuschristWebsite: https://mbchicago.org FOLLOW US Facebook: / mbc.chicago Instagram: / mbc.chicago TikTok: / mbc.chicago Podcasts: Listen on Apple, Spotify & others TO SUPPORT USZelle to: info@mbchicago.orgWebsite: https://mbchicago.org/give Venmo: https://venmo.com/mbchurch DAF Donations: https://every.org/mbc.chicago PayPal: https://paypal.com/donate/?hosted_but...