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This week, Pastor Dustin teaches us about the reality of spiritual warfare, and how God has given us the tools to combat it! We have an enemy that is looking to twist our thoughts, leading us away from God's plans for our lives, but we've been given the Armor of God to withstand every trick of the enemy! – Listen to the message here!
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As we wrap up our series THIS IS PURP[US]E, Pastor Dustin talks about how the church is a lot like an army. We're all fighting the same war against the same enemy, but Dustin reminds us that if we're part of the Church then we're all on the same team with the same mission - we're not fighting alone! - Listen to the message here!
Parenting is one of the greatest callings God entrusts to us — and also one of the most challenging. In Week 4 of our Home Sweet Home series, Pastor Dustin and Mandy Woodward teach on Godly Parenting, reminding us that raising children is not about perfection, but about faithfully stewarding the lives God has placed in our care. The Bible calls us to lead by example, embrace our responsibility, speak with intention, and trust God to do what we cannot. More than providing for our children, our ultimate responsibility is to point them to Jesus — in our actions, words, and everyday rhythms at home. Key Scriptures: Proverbs 22:6 | Jeremiah 1:4 | Deuteronomy 6:4–9 | Romans 12:2 | 1 Corinthians 15:33 | Proverbs 18:21 | James 5:16 In this message, you'll discover: – Why you must lead yourself before you lead your kids – The role of teaching and correcting in shaping attitudes, actions, and associations – The importance of speaking words of life and identity over your children – How to release control and trust God's plan for their future “Your words today become their inner voice tomorrow.” “You replicate who you are, not who you wish you were.” 31 Virtues to Pray Over Your Children: Salvation Grace Love Honesty Self-Control Love for God Justice Mercy Respect Self-Esteem Faithfulness Courage Purity Kindness Generosity Peace-Loving Joy Perseverance Humility Compassion Responsibility Contentment Faith Servant's Heart Hope Willingness to Work Prayerfulness Self-Discipline Passion for God Heart for Missions Gratitude Closing Prayer/Declaration: “Lord, thank You for the gift of family. Strengthen us as parents. And let our children rise up secure in their identity, bold in their calling, and rooted in Your Word. Make our homes a place where Your presence dwells and Your name is honored. We declare our homes will be houses of faith and peace, and our parenting will reflect Your heart. In Jesus' name, Amen.” This message is for every parent, grandparent, or guardian who wants to raise children anchored in Christ. Parents — which of the 31 virtues are you praying over your kids this week? Drop it in the comments!
In this sermon, Pastor Dustin continues our mini series in the book of Acts called "For the Sake of Others," with a sermon on Acts 14:8-20. While on their first missionary journey, Paul & Barnabas encounter a purely pagan culture for the first time and bring physical, spiritual, and emotional healing to Lystra. Sermon originally recorded on August 24th, 2025.
Needed | Pastor Dustin Hawkins
Imagine if a hospital turned away sick people for being "too sick." That would be insane! But often times we do the same thing in church to people for being "too far gone." In this message from Pastor Dustin, he talks about how the church should be a hospital for the broken! – Listen to the message here!
Marriage is more than a contract — it's a covenant established by God. In Week 3 of our Home Sweet Home series, Pastor Dustin and Mandy Woodward unpack what Scripture teaches about God's design for marriage and how it shapes the strength of the family, the home, and even society itself. Drawing from Ephesians 5:22–31, this message reminds us that marriage exists to reflect the covenant love of Christ and the Church. It's not about perfection, but about commitment, sacrifice, and faithfulness. Key Scriptures: Ephesians 5:22–31 | 1 Corinthians 13:4–7 | Colossians 3:13 | Hebrews 13:4 | Matthew 6:33 In this message, you'll discover: – Why marriage is a covenant, not a contract – How to build a marriage on commitment and faithfulness, not feelings – God's way to navigate love, conflict, intimacy, and priorities – The difference between culture's definition of success and God's definition – Practical commitments every marriage needs to thrive “Feelings may start a marriage, but only faithfulness can sustain it.” “The win in marriage is never me over you, but us over the issue.” Marriage Commitments: We're choosing holiness instead of chasing happiness. We'll stay faithful even when the feelings aren't always there. We'll fight for each other, not against each other. We'll keep God first, each other second, and let everything else come after that. Closing Prayer from Pastor Dustin & Mandy: Lord, thank You for our marriage. Help us choose holiness over happiness. Keep us faithful when feelings fade. Teach us to fight for each other, not against each other. We put You first, each other second, and everything else after. Bless our home and make our love a light for You. In Jesus' name, Amen. This message is a must-watch for married couples, engaged couples, or anyone preparing for the future. Build your marriage on God's design, and you'll leave behind a legacy that lasts.
Pastor Dustin Lang returns to his home church, New Story, and shares from his journey of church planting. Drawing from the book of Haggai, he invites us to reflect on our own priorities—are we more focused on personal comfort or on building God's kingdom?This message speaks to both younger and older generations, reminding us what it means to live with eternal purpose. Pastor Dustin also points to the importance of walking together as a community, supporting one another as we dedicate our lives to God's work.
Pastor Dustin kicks off a new sermon series this week, titled For the Sake of Others. We start in Philippians 2:1-11, in which the Apostle Paul's 'Christ Poem' teaches us that Jesus incarnation is a model for imitation, which serves as the theological basis for the focal theme of our ministry year: Becoming like Jesus together for the sake of others. Sermon originally recorded on August 17th, 2025.
As we kick off our brand new series THIS IS PURP[US]E, Pastor Dustin teaches us about how the church isn't just a place you attend, but it's a family you belong to! - Listen to the message here!
In a culture that often defines people by their relationship status, God reminds us of a better truth: your worth and identity come from Him alone. In Week 2 of our Home Sweet Home series, Pastor Dustin and Mandy share a timely message called “The Gift and Goals of Singleness.” Singleness is not a gap to be filled but a gift to be embraced — a season to walk in purity, pursue spiritual growth, and maximize your influence for the Kingdom. Key Scriptures: 1 Corinthians 7:7–8, 17 | Ephesians 4:14–15 | Matthew 7:16–17 | Galatians 5:22–23 | Proverbs 13:20 In this message, you'll discover: – How to be content and maximize your singleness – What to become and what to look for in relationships – 10 warning signs you can't ignore when pursuing a future spouse – Why your identity is complete in Christ — not in your relationship status “Learn to see singleness as a gift, not a gap.” “Use your freedom for Kingdom impact.” Closing Prayer from Pastor Dustin & Mandy: God, my identity is not found in my relationship status but in You. I am chosen, complete, and called. Use this season for Your purpose. Let me walk in wholeness, trust Your timing, and live with joy as I follow You wholeheartedly. Whether you're single, married, or somewhere in between, this message will encourage you to see your season through God's eyes and embrace the unique calling He has for you. What's one way you can maximize your season of singleness? Share in the comments!
Pastor Dustin continues our series Summer of the Spirit this week. In Acts 11, we see the beginning of the Christian movement in Antioch, the first time followers of Christ are referred to using that term. In this sermon, we dive in to the scripture to see what lessons can be taken from this era. Sermon originally recorded on August 10th, 2025.
Truth in the Marketplace | The Book of Acts
Welcome to Week 1 of our brand-new sermon series, Home Sweet Home! In this series, we're diving into God's design for the family — marriage, children, parenting, singleness — and how every season of life can flourish when Jesus is at the center of our home. In today's message, “A Christ-Centered Home,” Pastor Dustin unpacks the biblical blueprint for family, reminding us that the home is more than a physical place — it's a sacred space where faith is formed, character is shaped, and love is lived out daily. Whether you're single, married, parenting, or an empty-nester, God's vision for the home begins with Him at the center. Key Scriptures: Mark 10:6–8 | Psalm 127:3–5 | Deuteronomy 6:5–9 | Ephesians 6:1–3 | 1 Corinthians 7:7–8 | Proverbs 3:6 | Colossians 3:15–17 | Acts 2:46 | 1 Thessalonians 5:11 In this message, you'll discover: – God's view of marriage, children, parenting, and singleness – Why the home is a sanctuary, not a stage – 8 practical keys to building a Christ-centered home – How to create rhythms of peace, love, and authenticity – Why protecting the table and building memories matters for spiritual formation “Marriage is a covenant, not a contract. Children are a gift, not a project. Singleness is a season with divine assignment. The home is sacred because God designed it that way.” 8 Keys to a Christ-Centered Home: 1. Make God normal in your home 2. Set the tone with peace, not pressure 3. Let love be obvious and ongoing 4. Be the same person at home and in public 5. Say sorry and forgive quickly 6. Protect the table 7. Build memories, not just schedules 8. Remind each other who they are in Christ Closing Prayer from today's message. Heavenly Father, I thank You for our family. We declare that Jesus is the center of our home, our hope, and our future. We choose to love one another deeply, forgive quickly, and speak life over each other. We will make time for what matters most: Your Word, Your presence, your church, and each other. Our home will be a place of peace, joy, and grace. As for us and our house, we will serve the Lord. In Jesus name, Amen.
As we continue our series HOLY SPIRIT, Pastor Dustin teaches us about the gifts of the Holy Spirit. The gifts of the Spirit are not outdated, but available to every believer for the benefit of the Kingdom! - Listen to the message here! CCLI License #11410570
Preacher: Dustin RatcliffText: 2 Timothy 1In this new sermon series, Pastor Dustin preaches through 2 Timothy. He reminds the church to guard the good deposit of the gospel.
Scripture Reference: Romans 16:17-27
Welcome to Week 5 of our Hidden Gems series at Citizen Church! This week, Pastor Dustin brings a powerful and practical message titled "Fear of God vs. Fear of Man" — a word that speaks to all of us, no matter our age or season of life. We all wrestle with fear. But there's one fear the Bible warns can trap us more than any other — the fear of man. It can rob us of boldness, delay our obedience, and cause us to live for approval instead of purpose. The good news? The fear of the Lord is not fear as the world knows it — it's awe, reverence, and alignment with God… and it leads to life and freedom. Key Scriptures: Proverbs 29:25 | Proverbs 19:23 | Psalm 112:1,7 | Psalm 118:6 | Galatians 1:10 | 1 Samuel 15:24 | Proverbs 14:27 In this message, you'll learn: – How the fear of man traps us into people-pleasing and passivity – Why the fear of God brings peace, perspective, and power – What this tension looks like across different life stages — from teens to senior saints – How to trade insecurity for security by listening to God's voice above all others “The fear of man is living your life in response to people… instead of obedience to God.” “Every time fear wins, something God planned for you gets delayed.” Final Thought / Weekly Challenge: This week, take time to reflect: What has the fear of man kept you from doing that God is calling you to do? Ask God for courage to obey, even when it's uncomfortable — and trust that fearing Him leads to freedom, not bondage. Let this be the week you choose purpose over popularity, truth over approval, and His voice over every other.
Pastor Dustin Johnston
Romans 15:14-19
Scripture Reference: Romans 15:14-19
Welcome to Citizen Church and Week 4 of our series, Hidden Gems — where we're uncovering powerful truths from Proverbs that impact everyday life. In today's message, Pastor Dustin brings a timely and convicting word on the power of our words — and how what we say reveals, reflects, and shapes the world around us. Key Scriptures: Proverbs 10:11 | Luke 6:45 | Proverbs 13:3 | Proverbs 17:28 | Proverbs 10:19 | Proverbs 12:18 | Genesis 2:19 In this message, you'll discover 3 reasons our words shouldn't be taken lightly: 1 Words reveal what's in the heart. “For a man's words will always express what has been treasured in his heart.” (Luke 6:45) 2 Words require restraint and reflect wisdom. Holding your tongue isn't weakness — it's wisdom. 3 Words carry the power of life and death. They can build identity, heal wounds, and align us with God's truth — or tear down, destroy, and divide. “Don't just change your words; let God change your heart.” “Every thought has a voice, but not every thought deserves a microphone.” Our words are more than communication — they are spiritual instruments. God invites us into partnership to shape, encourage, and steward the world around us through what we say. Featuring a powerful quote from Dr. Carol Dweck: "What you praise shapes what a child values, how they see themselves, how they respond to challenges, and ultimately, who they become.” This message is for anyone who's ever struggled with what to say, when to speak, or how to bring healing through your words. If you're ready to walk in wisdom, speak life, and reflect the heart of God — don't miss this sermon.
Scripture Reference: Romans 15:5-13
Welcome to Citizen Church and Week 3 of our series, Hidden Gems — where we uncover timeless wisdom from Proverbs for everyday life. In today's powerful message, Pastor Dustin teaches us how to walk in financial wisdom by handling money God's way — with generosity, trust, and obedience. Key Scriptures: Proverbs 11:24–25 | Proverbs 3:9–10 | Matthew 6:33 | Luke 11:42 | Proverbs 28:19 | Hebrews 7:1–10 In this message, you'll discover 3 key principles for Kingdom generosity: Generosity doesn't subtract — it multiplies. - The world of the generous gets larger and more impactful. When you put God first, everything else finds its place. - Tithing isn't just a financial act — it's spiritual alignment. Obedience begins with what you have. - God honors faithfulness and stewardship over perfection. “The stingy don't just have less… they become less.” “You can't overflow if you don't put God first.” This message is a must-watch if you're seeking Biblical wisdom on money, financial freedom, or just looking to grow in your stewardship and faith. Whether you're learning to tithe, budget, invest, or break free from debt, God's Word has a blueprint for financial peace and purpose. Plus, learn about our Generosity U discipleship journey — where we explore practical tools and spiritual truths that lead to overflow living. God's way with money is clear: – Give freely > You grow. – Honor God first > You overflow. – Work faithfully > You harvest.
Pastor Dustin Lang shares a heartfelt message about the importance of protecting our hearts from the things that can pull us away from God. He talks about how what we see and hear can shape what's inside us—and how we need to be mindful of three key enemies: the world, the spirit, and the flesh. Through it all, Pastor Dustin reminds us of the power of God's love to renew and restore. He also shares some exciting news: He is planting a new church in the San Gabriel Valley! Partnering with Pastor Tom and the leadership team, this new church is all about bringing the gospel to even more people. It's a powerful reminder that God is always in the business of new beginnings.
As we wrap up our series LIKE LEMONADE, Pastor Dustin talks us through 2nd Samuel 11:1-5 and teaches us how to live with self-control. Through three steps - living with purpose, setting boundaries, and having godly conviction - we can walk out this flavor of the spirit! - Listen to the audio here!
Scripture Reference: Romans 14:13-23
For Father's Day, Pastor Dustin teaches us that gentleness is not weakness, but instead it is strength under control. We can all be learn to be gentle by following the formula of surrender, submitting, and obedience. – Listen to the message here!
Faithfulness is displayed over and over throughout the Bible. In this week's message, faithfulness is the fruit of the spirit flavor that Pastor Dustin teaches on. A lot of times in life, fear can try to freeze us, but faithfulness says keeps going. – Listen to the message here!
Scripture Reference: Romans 14:1-12
Pastor Dustin talks about people's reasons in not going to church...
PDA! It's Necessary | Pastor Dustin Hawkins
Pastor Dustin shares the story of The Good Samaritan and teaches us how it sets an example to be a good neighbor. The Good Samaritan displays both kindness and goodness to help those in need. You and I are called to do the same! – Listen to the message here!
Today, Pastor Dustin kicks off our SummerFest series with a deep dive into the story of Peter stepping out in faith to walk on water. Like Peter, we're called to reflect honestly, reclaim our God-given purpose, and respond boldly by taking our next step toward Jesus, even in the face of life's storms. Website: https://journeychristian.com New Here? https://journeychristian.com/new Need Prayer? https://journeychristian.com/prayer Next Steps: https://journeychristian.com/nextsteps Instagram: https://instagram.com/fljourneychurch Facebook https://www.facebook.com/fljourneychurch
He is Truly Alive | The Book of Acts
Scripture Reference: Romans 13:1-7
In Week 6 of Anchored, Pastor Dustin reminds us how important it is to share our God Story. It's not about having all the answers or perfect theology—just honestly telling what Jesus has done in your life is more than enough to inspire others. Website: https://journeychristian.com New Here? https://journeychristian.com/new Need Prayer? https://journeychristian.com/prayer Next Steps: https://journeychristian.com/nextsteps Instagram: https://instagram.com/fljourneychurch Facebook https://www.facebook.com/fljourneychurch
The promise whispered in the garden finds its voice in a manger. Jesus is not just the fulfillment of prophecy—he is the fullness of God's redemptive plan, stepping into history to redeem, restore, and reconcile. In this sermon, we witness how the Savior enters the story to redeem ours. Pastor Dustin May 25, 2025 https://linktr.ee/lifechurchwisconsin
This week in the Like Lemonade series, as we talk about the Fruit of the Spirit, Pastor Dustin teaches on the idea of peace. This isn't peace like the world thinks about where you build enough margin to feel comfortable or obtain certain things to feel less worried. This is about the peace that passes all understanding - the peace only given by God! – Listen to the message here!
Scripture Reference: Romans 12:9-21
How do you build a life that can withstand anything? In this message, Pastor Dustin shares part 3 of our Breaking Through the Storm series with a timely and practical word: “Storm Proofing Your Life.” Learn how to build a life that won't collapse under pressure — by strengthening your foundation, forming daily godly habits, and trusting God to cover what you can't control. You'll learn: Why obeying God's Word is the foundation for unshakable faith The daily spiritual habits that fortify your life How to stop living in fear and start resting in God's peace Whether you're facing a storm now or preparing for one in the future, this message will equip you with the truth and tools you need to stand strong in every season. Key Scriptures: Matthew 7:24–25 • James 1:22 • Luke 6:48 • Proverbs 24:3–4 • Colossians 2:6–7 • Psalm 91:1–2
Scripture Reference: Romans 12:3-8
FRUIT of the Spirit or FRUITS of the Spirit? Pastor Dustin walks us through the Mandela Effect that we often see and hear. In Galatians 5, the Bible refers to the FRUIT of the Spirit, and as Pastor Dustin explains "It's like one fruit with nine different flavors!" And we talk about a foundational flavor in this message - LOVE! – Listen to the message here!
Scripture Reference: Romans 12:1-2