Podcasts about pastor eric

Are you stressed, stuck, or constantly comparing yourself to everyone else? The problem might not be your circumstances — it might be that you're sitting in a seat that was never assigned to you. In this message, Pastor Eric Thomas delivers a word that will shift how you see your life, your purpose, and your next season. Drawing from his own story — homeless at 16, a high school dropout eating from trash cans — Pastor Eric shows what happened when he stopped chasing everyone else's seat and got into his own. Everything changed. God didn't assign your seat by accident. Before you were born, He factored in your gifts, your history, your capacity, and your calling. He said — this seat. This flight. This moment. Your job isn't to find the best seat in the room. It's to get into the one that already has your name on it. In this message you'll discover: Why your struggle may have nothing to do with your effort — and everything to do with your seat How social media comparison is keeping you out of your assignment What it really means that God chose YOU before you ever chose Him Why some seats are seasonal — and how to trust the transfer The leadership principle: every seat has a function, not everyone is called to the mic The formula for your clearance: Calling + Confirmation + Character

AI - Artificial Intelligence, the False Prophet, and the AntiChrist: In this fascinating episode, Steve welcomes Pastor Eric from Sound the Shofar Messianic Ministries to discuss the role of AI in Biblical prophecy. Frightening stuff! Find Pastor Eric online: https://www.facebook.com/groups/123168699032724Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/missing-persons-mysteries--5624803/support.

Welcome to the Live for More Podcast from River Oak Church in Chesapeake, Virginia. In this episode, Pastor Zach sits down with Pastor Eric to talk about two things many believers want help with:- How to study the Bible faithfully- How to teach it clearly—at home, in a group, or in the churchPastor Eric walks through his real sermon preparation process—how he studies verse-by-verse, identifies themes, builds a clear outline, and then connects the text to real life in Chesapeake in 2026. You'll also hear practical recommendations for tools like study Bibles, Blue Letter Bible, Bible Hub, trusted commentaries, and why you should avoid jumping to commentaries first.This conversation also models how to read Scripture with context and apply it without twisting it—using Mark 15 (Jesus' trial and Barabbas) as a case study. We talk about the danger of comfort, the fear of man, the temptation to “satisfy the crowd,” and how the innocence of Jesus exposes the darkness in every human heart.If you're a parent, small group leader, student, or new believer who wants to grow in Bible confidence—this episode is for you.

  Mark 6:1-6 I Pastor Eric Brown fmbcbellflower.org Mark: Expository Series

Send us a Text Message - include your name! Did God create cancer? In this episode of Faith Over Breakfast, Pastor Eric and Pastor Andy do their best to wrestle with that question. They draw from Augustine and Irenaeus, and they talk through sin, brokenness, creation, and the bigger “cosmic” storyline that shapes how Christians have understood evil and suffering. Along the way, they bring in themes from relational theology and try to speak with both honesty and care. You may still have questions when it's over, but the conversation will give you a thoughtful place to stand as you keep asking them. Support the showSUPPORT THE SHOW BEYOND SUBSCRIPTIONS1. CASH APP2. Justgive"Faith Over Breakfast with Pastors Andy & Eric" is a weekly podcast where Pastors Andy and Eric come together over a imaginary delicious breakfast to talk about faith, food, sermons, culture, and more. In each episode, the pastors delve into thought-provoking topics and offer inspiring insights and practical guidance for those seeking to deepen their relationship with Jesus. With occasional guests joining the conversation, "Faith Over Breakfast with Pastors Andy & Eric" provides a unique perspective on what it means to live a life of faith in today's world. Whether you're a seasoned Christian or just starting on your faith journey, this podcast is the perfect companion for your morning routine. So join Pastors Andy and Eric each week as they explore the intersections of faith, food, and life over a delicious breakfast.Support:https://www.buzzsprout.com/97804/support

Send a text In this episode of Healing the City, Pastor Eric and Pastor Mark reflect on Galatians 2:20. They talk through what it means to share in Christ's crucifixion; to say, with Paul, “I no longer live,” and yet to truly live because Christ lives in us. Along the way, they wrestle with the real-life implications of being loved by the One who gave himself for us, and what that kind of union with Jesus means for how we live today. Support the show“Healing the City” is a weekly podcast about what it looks like to build healthier communities. Featuring the voices and perspectives of people from the Village Church, each episode is focused on the real challenges and real opportunities for change in our cities. The podcast takes a whole-person approach. We talk about soul care and spiritual direction, along with mental health and community involvement. You will hear thoughtful perspectives on what people in our cities are up against, plus practical steps you can take to be part of the healing. Join hosts Corey Gilchrist, Eric Cepin, Ashley Cousineau, Jessica Dennes, Michael Cousineau, Mark Crawford, and Susan Cepin as we have honest conversations and keep pointing toward hope and next steps. The Village Churchvillagersonline@gmail.comThe Village Church meets at 10a and 5p on Sundays1926 N Cloverland Ave, Tucson AZ 85712Mail: PO Box 30790, Tucson AZ 85751

Blessed Are the Merciful Description: In this message from the Sermon on the Mount, Pastor Eric teaches why mercy is both an impossibility in the flesh and a lived reality through Jesus Christ and the daily filling of the Holy Spirit. Mercy doesn't go to the deserving—by definition it goes to the guilty. And the only way into the Kingdom is through the mercy of God poured out through the cross of Christ. From there, God expects His children to resemble their Father: to forgive, to bless, and to do good even when it's costly. Pastor Eric explains the difference between vertical forgiveness (releasing vengeance to God) and horizontal forgiveness (restoring relationship when there is repentance), and why mercy given is mercy multiplied—“pressed down, shaken together, and running over.” If you're carrying deep wounds, this sermon does not minimize the pain. It points to the only place real mercy is found—and the only power that can make it possible. Key Scriptures: Matthew 5:7 Luke 6:27–38 Luke 17:1–10 John 1:1, 14 2 Corinthians 5:21 1 Peter 2:24 John 10:27–30 Romans 12:19 In This Sermon: Why the Sermon on the Mount is “Kingdom law” and impossible without Christ Mercy as the doorway into the Kingdom: undeserved and unearned Salvation explained: what it means to be “saved” and why Jesus is the only Rescuer Mercy and love: inseparable, practical, and Christlike The call to love enemies and bless those who curse “Increase our faith” and Jesus' answer: you already have faith—exercise it Mercy multiplied: the measure you use will be measured back to you, pressed down and overflowing Vertical forgiveness vs. horizontal forgiveness Repentance, rebuke, restoration, and rebuilding trust over time Next Step: Ask God to do what you cannot do: fill you with His mercy so you can release vengeance to Him, forgive from a free heart, and be ready to extend mercy when repentance comes.      

Sunday Service . "Living the Spirit Filled Life - Part 6" Pastor Eric Johns 02/22/26 . We are Live on YouTube every Sunday at 11:00 a.m. Follow us on our platforms so you never miss a service! . . Click the Link to find out more about us! - https://linktr.ee/Buffalodreamcenter?utm_source=linktree_profile_share

Today's episode might sound like it belongs in a seminary class, but trust us, Pastor Eric helps explain what we are talking about! So, what exactly is The Book of Concord? Does it involve grapes? Airliners? A college in Moorhead? Not quite. To put in simply…The Book of Concord helps us answer what it means to be Lutheran. Written in 1580, it is the document that creates the foundation that all Lutheran churches can agree upon. The word “concord” literally means an agreement or harmony between people or groups. Have a listen…we promise you will come away with some new knowledge!

This week, we finish our Preaching and Persecution series in Acts. In Acts 8, we see Philip follow the leading of the Holy Spirit to share the gospel with the Ethiopian Eunuch in the desert, and the Ethiopian Eunuch responds in baptism. Pastor Eric shares three points as we work through the text: 1) Radical Obedience 2) Gospel Telling 3) An Outward Response

Pastor Eric continues in the Jonah series. In this sermon we look at what the reliability of the Word of God; what does it mean that Ninevah was a three-days journey?

In this episode, Pastor Eric reflects on Week 8 of The Bible Recap, what begins with bold promises — “We will do everything the Lord has said” — quickly turns into impatience, compromise, and broken trust when Moses delays on the mountain.Yet even in rebellion, we encounter something powerful: a holy God who is also merciful. Through intercession, discipline, and covenant renewal, the Lord reveals His character — compassionate, gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love.As Lent begins this week, this passage invites us to reflect on what's ahead. Lent calls us into repentance, surrender, and preparation for the cross. Just as Israel had to confront their wandering hearts, we are invited to examine ours — to lay down our idols, to wait on the Lord, and to remember that His presence is the greatest gift.Join us as we look forward to the journey toward Easter, considering how repentance, renewal, and reverence prepare us to fully grasp the sacrifice and victory that are coming.Support the show

Steve welcomes Pastors Eric and Justin from Sound the Shofar Messianic Ministries for a compelling look at portals, wormholes, and more. Find the Pastors on the web: https://www.facebook.com/groups/123168699032724 and Pastor Eric's books on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3UWnx7GBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/missing-persons-mysteries--5624803/support.

Send us a Text Message - include your name! In this episode of Faith Over Breakfast, Pastor Andy and Pastor Eric talk about how people understand the role of elders in the church. They reflect on the weight elders carry, the stress and anxiety that can come with shepherding a congregation, and the quiet hope that sustains both paid and non-paid elders as they serve. Support the showSUPPORT THE SHOW BEYOND SUBSCRIPTIONS1. CASH APP2. Justgive"Faith Over Breakfast with Pastors Andy & Eric" is a weekly podcast where Pastors Andy and Eric come together over a imaginary delicious breakfast to talk about faith, food, sermons, culture, and more. In each episode, the pastors delve into thought-provoking topics and offer inspiring insights and practical guidance for those seeking to deepen their relationship with Jesus. With occasional guests joining the conversation, "Faith Over Breakfast with Pastors Andy & Eric" provides a unique perspective on what it means to live a life of faith in today's world. Whether you're a seasoned Christian or just starting on your faith journey, this podcast is the perfect companion for your morning routine. So join Pastors Andy and Eric each week as they explore the intersections of faith, food, and life over a delicious breakfast.Support:https://www.buzzsprout.com/97804/support

Pastor Eric urges every Christian to move “off the bench and into the game” by using their God‑given gifts to serve others in the church and beyond, rather than just consuming spiritual benefits. Drawing on Scripture and personal stories, he shows that serving is God's will, grows our faith, blesses others, and makes us conduits of God's love.

Blessed Are the Pure in Heart (Practice the Presence of God) Description: In Matthew 5:8, Jesus promises something staggering: “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” In this message, Pastor Eric explains that “pure” means without mixture — an unmixed heart and a single devotion. We look at the difference between positional purity (what God does for us in salvation) and progressive purity (how grace teaches us to live and how confession restores fellowship). Jesus doesn't call us to perfection of performance, but purity of pursuit — a life where our treasure, attention, and affection are steadily re-centered on Him. As devotion becomes unmixed, vision becomes clear: the pure in heart “see God” at work in daily life. Key Scriptures: Matthew 5:8 John 15:3–5 Titus 2:11–14 Titus 3:4–7 Romans 3:10, 23 Matthew 6:19–24 Colossians 3:1–2 James 1:5–8 John 10:27–30 In This Sermon: What “pure” means in Scripture: without mixture Positional purity vs. progressive purity (relationship vs. fellowship) Why salvation is not earned: Christ alone, grace alone How mixed devotion clouds discernment and creates instability “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” The single eye, the unmixed life, and learning to “see God” daily A practical call to “Practice the Presence of God” (Brother Lawrence) Next Step: Ask honestly: What has my heart this week? Then re-aim your treasure toward Christ — because where you invest is where your heart will follow.

Sunday Service . "Living the Spirit Filled Life - Part 5" Pastor Eric Johns 02/15/26 . We are Live on YouTube every Sunday at 11:00 a.m. Follow us on our platforms so you never miss a service! . . Click the Link to find out more about us! - https://linktr.ee/Buffalodreamcenter?utm_source=linktree_profile_share

In Week One of our new series Kingdom Code, we continue our dive into the Gospel of Matthew as Pastor Eric challenges us to rethink what real rest looks like. He reminds us that true rest isn't found in striving, rules, or religious effort — it's found in surrendering to Jesus Christ. This episode invites you to lay down performance and rediscover the freedom that comes from trusting Him fully.

Thanks for tuning into Victory City's Podcast. We post messages every Sunday night at 6pm! If you enjoyed this message and would like to visit us or get to know more about our church, text the keyword "VictoryCity" to 94000 and fill out our Digital Connect Card! If this message has blessed you, please consider partnering with us financially! To give online, visit victorycity.church/give. Be sure to subscribe to our channel to get notified every time we post or go live, and turn on notifications. Keep in touch! Follow us on our social media: INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/victorycity.church/?hl=en FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/VictoryCity.ChurchTX/

This week, we continue our series in Acts, Preaching and Persecution. In Acts 8, we see Philip's faithfulness to share the gospel in Samaria, the apostles' prayer over the new believers, and their rebuke of Simon the magician's heart posture. Pastor Eric shares four points as we work through the text: 1) The Elephant in the Room 2) The First Cross-Cultural Mission Trip 3) The Gift of the Holy Spirit 4) The Motives of the Heart

Pastor Eric continues our mark series with an incredible challenge to maturity

Pastor Eric continues in the Jonah series. In this sermon we look at what it means to preach the gospel.

What does Jesus desire for His people? As we get to the climactic end of Jesus' prayer to the Father, we get an intimate look at the heart cry of our Savior. This week, Pastor Eric will walk us through the final week of our Upper Room series, preaching from John 17:20-26. In this passage, Jesus prays for his future disciples, (that's us) that we would be one. He prays that the unity of the body of Christ would be a living reflection of the loving unity between the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, that we would dwell in fellowship with God, and the ancient desire of God to dwell among his people would be realized through the death and resurrection of Jesus. Join us on Sunday, at 8:30 and 11:00 am, as we study God's Word together and discover the depths of His love for us.

Join in as Pastor Eric continues the Getting to Know God series with El Roi, God Who Sees

Mark 5:1-20 I Pastor Eric Brown fmbcbellflower.org Mark: Expository Series

Pastor Scott and Pastor Eric join Andrew to discuss Luke 15's parable of the lost sheep as a picture of God's heart to pursue every “one more” person and cast a vision for the church to carry that same burden all year, intentionally praying for and reaching out to the lost. They also explore common fears that keep believers from sharing their faith—such as rejection, not having answers, or making relationships awkward—and encourage practical, Spirit-led steps like asking good questions, sharing personal testimonies, and not ignoring God's promptings.

Send us a Text Message - include your name! In this episode of the Faith Over Breakfast podcast, Pastor Eric and Pastor Andy take a look at social media and ask what it's actually good for. Is it simply a tool, or is it forming us in dangerous ways? They talk about how Christians might use it with wisdom, what to do with addiction, and why it so easily grabs our attention and reshapes the mind. Support the showSUPPORT THE SHOW BEYOND SUBSCRIPTIONS1. CASH APP2. Justgive"Faith Over Breakfast with Pastors Andy & Eric" is a weekly podcast where Pastors Andy and Eric come together over a imaginary delicious breakfast to talk about faith, food, sermons, culture, and more. In each episode, the pastors delve into thought-provoking topics and offer inspiring insights and practical guidance for those seeking to deepen their relationship with Jesus. With occasional guests joining the conversation, "Faith Over Breakfast with Pastors Andy & Eric" provides a unique perspective on what it means to live a life of faith in today's world. Whether you're a seasoned Christian or just starting on your faith journey, this podcast is the perfect companion for your morning routine. So join Pastors Andy and Eric each week as they explore the intersections of faith, food, and life over a delicious breakfast.Support:https://www.buzzsprout.com/97804/support

Send a textIn this episode of the Human City Podcast, Pastor Eric and Pastor Mark explore 2 Corinthians 5:17, considering what it means for the old to be gone and the new to be here. They also discuss Scripture memorization and its role in anchoring our lives in the truth.Support the show“Healing the City” is a weekly podcast about what it looks like to build healthier communities. Featuring the voices and perspectives of people from the Village Church, each episode is focused on the real challenges and real opportunities for change in our cities. The podcast takes a whole-person approach. We talk about soul care and spiritual direction, along with mental health and community involvement. You will hear thoughtful perspectives on what people in our cities are up against, plus practical steps you can take to be part of the healing. Join hosts Corey Gilchrist, Eric Cepin, Ashley Cousineau, Jessica Dennes, Michael Cousineau, Mark Crawford, and Susan Cepin as we have honest conversations and keep pointing toward hope and next steps. The Village Churchvillagersonline@gmail.comThe Village Church meets at 10a and 5p on Sundays1926 N Cloverland Ave, Tucson AZ 85712Mail: PO Box 30790, Tucson AZ 85751

Welcome to the audio podcast of Valley Family Church located in Kalamazoo, Michigan. We pray you'll be encouraged as you listen to this podcast. For more information on Valley Family Church, visit valleyfamilychurch.org.

Blessed Are — Bruises to Blessings Description: In this message from the Blessed Are series, Pastor Eric addresses a bruised and grieving moment in our nation and calls the church to see suffering through the lens of Jesus' words: “Blessed are you…” Drawing from the Beatitudes and the Sermon on the Mount, he explains that blessing is not the absence of pain but the presence of God's redeeming purpose within it. Pastor Eric reflects on persecution, reviling, and being maligned for righteousness' sake, showing how cultural hostility toward biblical convictions is not new—and should not surprise believers. He emphasizes that following Christ means obedience to God over approval from men, even when that obedience leads to suffering, misunderstanding, or loss. The message presses the church to resist fear, self-censorship, and compromise, and instead walk faithfully as ambassadors of Christ. At the heart of the sermon is Isaiah 52–53, where the first and greatest bruise to blessing is revealed. Jesus Christ was wounded, bruised, rejected, and slain for our transgressions so that peace with God could be offered freely to sinners. Pastor Eric shows that Christ's suffering was purposeful, voluntary, and victorious—and that all who trust Him receive forgiveness, new life, and eternal hope. From Acts, 1 Peter, 2 Timothy, 2 Corinthians, and Hebrews 11, the message broadens to include both persecution and everyday hardship. Whether suffering comes through public hostility, personal loss, disability, sickness, or injustice, God redeems it for His glory when we keep an eternal perspective. Bruises do not have the final word—blessings do. Key Scriptures (NKJV): Matthew 5:3–12; Isaiah 52:13–53:12; Acts 5:29–42; 1 Peter 4:12–16; 2 Timothy 3:12; 2 Corinthians 4:16–18; Hebrews 11:35–40. Highlights: Why Jesus calls the persecuted blessed, not defeated. Biblical conviction vs. political labeling: living as a biblicist. Christ's bruising as the ultimate path to blessing (Isaiah 53). Peace with God purchased through the suffering of Jesus. Obeying God rather than men when faith is costly. Persecution in many forms: slander, exclusion, loss, hardship. Keeping an eternal perspective when life wounds deeply. The call to leave a legacy of faithfulness, not fear. Next Steps: Ask God to help you see your current bruises through an eternal lens. Thank Him for the suffering of Christ that secured your salvation. Pray for courage to live faithfully without compromise, and for grace to respond to opposition with truth, love, and endurance. Choose this week to rejoice—not in the pain—but in the promise that God is turning bruises into blessings for His glory.

Pastor Eric teaches from Luke 15's parable of the lost sheep that God, the Good Shepherd, pursues every wandering person with joy, not condemnation, and that no one is ever too far gone for His grace. It challenges the church to celebrate every salvation, and to intentionally pray for and pursue “one more” lost or hurting person in their own lives.

Sunday Service . "Living the Spirit Filled Life - Part 4" Pastor Eric Johns 02/08/26 . We are Live on YouTube every Sunday at 11:00 a.m. Follow us on our platforms so you never miss a service! . . Click the Link to find out more about us! - https://linktr.ee/Buffalodreamcenter?utm_source=linktree_profile_share

Pastor Eric is in the studio today to talk about the wedding at Cana, which is Jesus' first sign (we'll get into why the Gospel of John calls it a “sign” and not a “miracle”). He gives us a little background to set up the story and then treats us to a retelling of it to fill in the details. And Eric and Marnie discuss how the story is about God encountering us amid our everyday lives and saying He will be present with us.

** Due to technical difficulties, this sermon was edited, which may result in a few uneven transitions. We hope it is an encouragement all the same! This week, we continue our series in Acts, Preaching and Persecution. In Acts 7-8, we see the aftermath of Stephen's sermon and its effect on the church. Pastor Eric shares three points from the text: 1) The Stoning of Stephen: Following Jesus comes with hardship and suffering. 2) The Persecution from Saul: God can use the worst of men for his divine purposes. 3) Philip Proclaims Jesus to Samaria: Resurrection joy propels us out of crucifying agony.

Pastor Eric continues our series on the book of Mark

Prayer of the Day Lord God, with endless mercy you receive the prayers of all who call upon you. By your Spirit show us the things we ought to do, and give us the grace and power to do them, through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen. Welcome to Calvary Lutheran Church 619 3RD AVE SW, PERHAM, MN 56573 Thank God. Share Jesus. Help Others   Support Our Livestream Ministry—and Empower Our Youth! Each week, our YouTube, Facebook Live and our podcast services are made possible by our amazing youth media team. That's right—they run the cameras, audio, and streaming software—and we're proud to pay them for their work, helping them build life skills while serving the church. Your donation supports: Livestream costs (equipment, internet, tools) Paid media roles for our youth Continued outreach through digital ministry If you've been blessed by our services, consider giving here: https://www.calvaryperham.com/gifts Thank you for helping us serve our community—and raise up the next generation! Facebook: / calvaryperham YouTube: / @calvaryperham Podcast on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/7hbXujm... Podcast public site https://rss.com/podcasts/april16th2023/ Lakes 99.5 Radio Sundays at Ten Thirty AM https://player.listenlive.co/64121 TUESDAY WORSHIP 9 AM Arvig TV Channel 14 Egiving https://secure.myvanco.com/YMVS/home Website: https://calvaryperham.com/ Vanco Mobile App on Phone/Tablet: Vanco Mobile Faith Engagement has replaced the Give+ App. Search “vanco mobile faith engagement” in the app store to download on your phone or tablet, Calvary is “Calvary Lutheran Church ELCA.” Website: Click the orange E-Giving button at https://calvaryperham.com/

Pastor Eric continues in the Jonah series. In this sermon we finish up chapter 2, looking at the words of Jonah's prayer.

Mark 4:35-41 I Pastor Eric Brown fmbcbellflower.org Mark: Expository Series

Pastor Eric preaches on February 1, 2026

Pastor Eric kicks off a brand-new series through the Gospel of Mark by calling it “the greatest introduction of all time”—an opening that reveals Jesus as the Messiah, the Son of God, and the Lord who has come near. In Mark 1, we meet John the Baptist as the forerunner, witness Jesus' baptism and the Trinity on display, and hear the first words Jesus speaks: “The time has come.” This message is an invitation to course-correct toward the real Jesus, the God-King whose good news changes everything.

Send us a Text Message - include your name! In this episode of Faith Over Breakfast, Pastor Eric and Pastor Andy wrestle with the difficult realities of immigration, ICE enforcement, public protest, and the role of Christians in government and society. The conversation is candid and unguarded, and the answers they arrive at may feel incomplete—but they are real, prayerful, and rooted in lived faith. Support the showSUPPORT THE SHOW BEYOND SUBSCRIPTIONS1. CASH APP2. Justgive"Faith Over Breakfast with Pastors Andy & Eric" is a weekly podcast where Pastors Andy and Eric come together over a imaginary delicious breakfast to talk about faith, food, sermons, culture, and more. In each episode, the pastors delve into thought-provoking topics and offer inspiring insights and practical guidance for those seeking to deepen their relationship with Jesus. With occasional guests joining the conversation, "Faith Over Breakfast with Pastors Andy & Eric" provides a unique perspective on what it means to live a life of faith in today's world. Whether you're a seasoned Christian or just starting on your faith journey, this podcast is the perfect companion for your morning routine. So join Pastors Andy and Eric each week as they explore the intersections of faith, food, and life over a delicious breakfast.Support:https://www.buzzsprout.com/97804/support

Blessed Are — Blessed Are the Poor in Spirit (The Blessing of Humility) Description: In this message from the Blessed Are series, Pastor Eric backs up to the foundation of the Beatitudes: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” He explains that “poor” is not material poverty, but spiritual neediness—an honest recognition of our emptiness, our sin, and our inability to rescue ourselves. This poverty of spirit is not humiliation for humiliation's sake; it is the doorway to salvation and the beginning of a life shaped by humility. Pastor Eric contrasts true humility with self-righteousness through Jesus' parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector (Luke 18). The Pharisee “prays with himself,” measuring goodness against others and reinforcing his own pride. The tax collector, crushed by the weight of sin, pleads for mercy—and Jesus says that man goes home justified. The message presses home a simple reality: no one becomes right with God by comparison, effort, religion, or image-management. The only standard is Jesus Christ, and the only way into the kingdom is through Him. From there, Pastor Eric shows how humility doesn't end at conversion—it continues as the posture of the Christian life. Believers move from desperate need for salvation to a desperate hunger and thirst for righteousness: not to prove worth, but to live from grace. Pride cuts us off from grace; humility keeps us connected to the throne where mercy restores and grace enables. The call is both to the unbeliever (come to Christ and receive the water of life) and to the believer (stay humble, stay hungry, keep coming back to Jesus when you fall). Key Scriptures (NKJV): Matthew 5:3; Luke 18:9–14; Romans 3:10, 23; John 14:6; Matthew 7:13–14; Ephesians 2:1; Matthew 5:6; James 4:6; Hebrews 4:16; Isaiah 55:1–2; Romans 8:1. Highlights: What “poor in spirit” actually means: spiritual neediness, not material lack. Why humility is the foundation of every other Beatitude. The Pharisee vs. the tax collector: self-righteousness vs. justification. The true standard of goodness is Jesus, not the person beside you. Salvation is received, not earned—Jesus is the door, and the way is narrow. The difference between self-righteousness (proving) and true righteousness (hungering). Mercy restores when we fall; grace empowers us to walk in righteousness. Pride cuts off grace; humility keeps us connected to the throne of grace. Next Steps: Ask yourself two questions: Have I truly come to Jesus in poverty of spirit—owning my sin and receiving Him as my only Savior? As a believer, am I trying to prove righteousness, or am I staying humble and staying hungry for Christ to fill me again? Bring your sin, your shame, and your need to Jesus—then keep coming back for mercy and enabling grace to live like Him.

Send us a text In this episode of Healing the City, Pastor Eric and Pastor Mark talk about why they chose to kick off the year with Titus. They explore key themes around older and younger people in the church, how discipleship takes shape, and how the gospel forms a community. They also share what listeners can look forward to in the coming year. Support the show“Healing the City” is a weekly podcast about what it looks like to build healthier communities. Featuring the voices and perspectives of people from the Village Church, each episode is focused on the real challenges and real opportunities for change in our cities. The podcast takes a whole-person approach. We talk about soul care and spiritual direction, along with mental health and community involvement. You will hear thoughtful perspectives on what people in our cities are up against, plus practical steps you can take to be part of the healing. Join hosts Corey Gilchrist, Eric Cepin, Ashley Cousineau, Jessica Dennes, Michael Cousineau, Mark Crawford, and Susan Cepin as we have honest conversations and keep pointing toward hope and next steps. The Village Churchvillagersonline@gmail.comThe Village Church meets at 10a and 5p on Sundays1926 N Cloverland Ave, Tucson AZ 85712Mail: PO Box 30790, Tucson AZ 85751

Feeling sorry is easy; repentance costs something. In this message, Pastor Eric looks at David's response to failure and reveals how genuine repentance becomes the doorway to healing.Learn more about salvation, info about Destiny Church, or how to give by visiting our website.Real | Relevant | Relationship

Join in as Pastor Eric continues the series Getting to Know God with this message, God, The Best Builder!

Send us a textPastor Eric helps us wrestle with slaves and masters and how the gospel invites us into the imbalanced power structures of the world.Support the showThe Village Church's sermon podcast is more than just a weekly message. It is an invitation into the great and ongoing story of God's work in the world. Pastors Eric, Mark, Susan, Daniel, and other leaders open the Scriptures not as a collection of abstract ideas but as the living, breathing witness to God's kingdom breaking into our midst. Each episode is a call—not merely to listen, but to take part, to step forward into the life of faith with renewed vision and purpose. Week by week, the pastors and leaders explore the deep rhythms of Christian discipleship—prayer, fasting, generosity—not as isolated duties but as part of a larger, richer, and more beautiful whole. They unpack these ancient practices in light of Jesus himself, the one in whom heaven and earth have come together. But they also turn their attention to the realities of everyday life—relationships, finances, the struggles and joys of being human—demonstrating how the gospel is not merely about what we believe but about how we live as God's renewed people in the present age. The Village Churchvillagersonline@gmail.comMore information at www.villagersonline.com

Welcome to the audio podcast of Valley Family Church located in Kalamazoo, Michigan. We pray you'll be encouraged as you listen to this podcast. For more information on Valley Family Church, visit valleyfamilychurch.org.

This week, we begin a new series in Acts, Preaching and Persecution. In Acts 7, we see Stephen's sermon recounting the history of Israel and their repeated resistance of the Holy Spirit. Pastor Eric shares three points from the text: 1) The Story of God's People 2) The Resistance of Man 3) The Faithfulness of God

Pastor Eric continues our series on the book of Mark