Podcasts about pastor jeff

It's Christmas Eve! In our final episode of 2025, Pastor Jeff shares about some special visitors—the shepherds—and how they shared the good news of the birth of the King of Kings, our Messiah. Luke 2: 17-18 17 When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them.  We'll resume our podcast on January 5, 2026.  Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!  

Not only is God's timing perfect, but there are times when He gives us something we need before we even need it! The Israelites of Jesus' time did not realize the true nature of the gift they had in Jesus, but when He was on the cross, one of the last things Jesus did was forgive those who had cast Him aside. Pastor Jeff reminds us today that Jesus has mercy on us even when we reject Him, and He is waiting with open arms to welcome those who call on His name into His family.

This Christmas week, Pastor Jeff continues sharing from Luke 2, highlighting the most important moment in history: the birth of Jesus. Luke 2:6-7 6 While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, 7 and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.

We've reached the end of our series from Judges and the story of Gideon defeating the Midianites. Pastor Jeff has been exploring the 7 resolutions we find in these verses. Today Pastor Jeff finishes this message with a big questions - ???Are you one of the 300???? Support the show: https://www.oneandall.church/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Not very long ago, clocks needed to be wound regularly in order to keep accurate time. A clock requires some source of stored energy in order to keep the mechanism turning, and if you forgot to wind your watch, you would lose track of what time it is! Well, in today's message, Pastor Jeff teaches you that God's watch never needs winding. He knows exactly what time it is, and more importantly, He knows exactly when to deliver His blessings to have maximum impact. He has His timing down to the millisecond!

We’ve reached the end of our series from Judges and the story of Gideon defeating the Midianites. Pastor Jeff has been exploring the 7 resolutions we find in these verses. In today’s episode Pastor Jeff is asking us, ???Are you one of the 300????Support the show: https://www.oneandall.church/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This Christmas week, Pastor Jeff shares from Luke 2—the story of Jesus' birth, our Messiah, and the true gift we celebrate this season. Luke 2:1-3 In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. 2 (This was the first census that took place while[a] Quirinius was governor of Syria.) 3 And everyone went to their own town to register.

When you think of God, what pictures come to mind? The world tries to portray God as some vindictive dictator obsessed with enforcing a set of rules. Do you think of Him as a strict rule giver, and someone who's out to get you? Pastor Jeff will encourage us to think of God as our Abba Daddy, who loves us, and wants to lead and guide us! To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/621/29?v=20251111

The best gift that you and I can receive at Christmas is a reminder of the reason why Jesus came to this world! It didn't take long after the Garden of Eden for sin to spread and infect this world, and Satan's forces corrupted everything that God had called good. But Pastor Jeff reminds us that God has the final word in His creation! He sent His only son, Jesus, to stand in the gap between man and God and restore the bonds that were broken. His sacrifice made a way for us to be saved from death!

Welcome to the Harvest Bible Chapel sermon podcast. This week, we continue our Christmas series, Birth of the King, with a message titled “Wise Men and a Foolish King,” from Matthew 2:1–12. In this familiar passage, Matthew places two responses to Jesus side by side: the fearful resistance of King Herod and the humble, joyful worship of the wise men. As the story unfolds, we're invited to examine our own hearts. Do we cling to control like Herod, threatened by the idea of another King? Or do we seek Jesus as our greatest treasure, bowing before Him in worship? Wherever you're listening from, we pray this message helps you see the beauty, authority, and worth of Christ—and leads you to respond to Him with faith and joy. Executive Producer: Flavius Herlo Speaker: Pastor Jeff Bucknam Sound design, mixing, and editing: Bryan Tripp Graphic Design: Wesley Cassford Social Media: Bryan Spahr Producer: Dave Putnam WE INVITE YOU TO CONNECT WITH US: • Website: www.harvestbible.org/ WE INVITE YOU TO FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA: • Instagram: @harvestbiblechapel • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/harvestbiblechapel/

Immanuel: Week 3 - Christmas / Pastor Jeff Bowman by Hope City Church

Welcome to #SundaysatTCAB! Pastor Jeff Ponder wraps up The Greatest Gift series as we look at how Christ is the Prince of Peace. We pray today's service brings you hope and encouragement. Make plans to tune in live this week on Wednesday, December 24 at 4:30 PM for the Candlelight Service. Merry Christmas! New to The Church at Bushland? Tell us a little about you and receive a personal note from Pastor Jeff. First Time Guest: https://www.thechurchatbushland.com/guestform?location=livestream How can we pray for you? Submit your prayer request here: https://www.thechurchatbushland.com/prayerrequest Subscribe to get the latest videos: https://www.youtube.com/c/TheChurchAtBushland We also have our newest channel, @TCABClips, with sermon and worship highlights and short content from Digging for the Truth. Subscribe, turn on notifications, and never miss an episode! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6VflV8HJUd-6vTX9CSJRKw Listen while you work, exercise, or whatever keeps you busy: Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/channel/the-church-at-bushland/id6442779332 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/077EsZwp6Y7pPhv7X8mXEY?si=893d09eeae9142d5 Support the online ministry at TCAB. Join the giving team today! https://www.thechurchatbushland.com/giving Download the TCAB App today! iOS - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-church-at-bushland/id1495461805 Android - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.kidunottech.culminate.tcab Connect with The Church at Bushland: Website | https://thechurchatbushland.com Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/thechurchatbushland/ Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/thechurchatbushland/

Introduction: I Want to Belong to Jesus… (John 1:4–13) Because He gives me an UNBEATABLE HOPE. (John 1:4–5) Because He gives me a MEANINGFUL MISSION. (John 1:6–8) Isaiah 40:3 – A voice cries: “In the wilderness prepare the way of the LORD; make straight in the desert a highway for our God.” John 3:30 – He must increase, but I must decrease. Because He gives me a SPOT IN HIS FAMILY THAT I CANNOT EARN. (John 1:9–13) John 3:19–20 – And this is the judgment: the light has come into the world, and people loved the darkness rather than the light because their works were evil. For everyone who does wicked things hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his works should be exposed. Sermon Notes (PDF): BLANKHint: Highlight blanks above for answers! Small Group DiscussionRead John 1:4-13What was your big take-away from this passage / message?Who or what do you often set your hopes on? Why can't these people and things satisfy you as Jesus can?What excuses are holding you back from bearing witness to the light? How will you bear witness to the light this week and next?How does Jesus give us the right to become children of God? Why can't this right be deserved or earned?BreakoutPray for one another. AUDIO TRANSCRIPT Well, as you turn to John chapter one, I want to ask you the same exact question that youjust heard in the video.I want to ask you a question that Pastor Jeff brought to your attention last week in hismessage.It's probably a question that you're tired of hearing and asking this holiday season.What do you want for Christmas?With Christmas being so close, you have asked and heard the answer to that question manytimes over the past several weeks.The questions you've, the answers you've heard and the answers you've given include an O'Wallahwater bottle.Isn't that popular?That's still popular.I don't really know.A red light therapy mask.Anybody want that?That's popular on Instagram, isn't it?A massive Lego set, a Nintendo switch to new AirPods, a smart ring, which I guess is kindof like an Apple Watch, but a ring on your finger.I don't really know.Or fancy golf clubs.But there are many things that you want for Christmas that you cannot write down on a wishlist.There are many things you want for Christmas that cannot be bought or wrapped.Maybe you want that big promotion.Maybe you want that bonus this year that you aren't sure is coming.Maybe you want healing in your own body or in the body of a loved one.Or here's a big one.Maybe you want to feel like you belong.You want to not be rejected.That is a desire that every single person in this room shares.It's a desire that starts when you're young and it continues on for the rest of your life.As a kid and then a teenager, every single one of us was desperate to fit in and havea group of friends to belong to.Rejection is painful.It leaves lasting memories, especially when you're a kid.You know, growing up, my friends and I used to have a sleepover almost every single Fridaynight.And during 11th grade, there was a month-long stretch where there was no sleepovers.And I was really confused.I didn't know why this routine had been broken.So one day at the lunch table, I said to my friends, "Hey, guys, we haven't had a sleepoverin a while.Do you guys want to come to my house this Sunday?"And whenever I said that, everyone at the table erupted in uncontrollable laughter.And I was, again, just very, very confused.After they were all done and calmed down, I said, "What's so funny?"They then proceeded to tell me that they thought it would be hilarious to not invite me tosleepovers for a while to see how long it would take me to notice and say something.I missed a whole month of sleepovers with my friends.And to be honest, in that moment, externally, I tried to laugh it off.I tried to act like it wasn't a big deal.But internally, I felt rejected.I felt like I didn't belong.You ever felt that way before?A friend stopped talking to you.A family member cut off communication for seemingly no reason.A boyfriend or girlfriend ended the relationship without warning.Your spouse chose to give up on the marriage and leave.You have felt rejected before.You have felt like you don't belong.You feel that way right now?Maybe you couldn't care less about what gifts you're going to get under the Christmas treethis year.Maybe you don't want anything from Amazon or the mall.More than anything this year, you just want to experience that sense of belonging.You want to know that there are people who love you, who care about you, and will neverlet go of you no matter what you do.I can't guarantee you that sense of belonging with your family and with your friends thisChristmas.I wish I could, but I can't.But I can guarantee there is someone infinitely greater who will give you that sense of belonging.I can guarantee there is someone who will not reject you, who will not turn away fromyou if you truly turn to him.That person is Jesus Christ.There is no one better to belong to.There is no one better to be loved by.There is no one with a tighter grip in all of existence than him.I want you to walk out of this service this morning if you're a believer with a greatersense of confidence that you were loved by Jesus Christ.That you are safe and secure in his steady hands.There is no better gift than that.And if you're not a Christian this morning, I want you to know that the invitation hasbeen extended to belong to Christ.He commands you to follow him.He invites you to enjoy his acceptance and not fear others' rejection.More than anything, I want all of you in this room to want to belong to Jesus this Christmas.So before we continue any further, let's go to the Lord and ask for His help.Please pray for me that I will faithfully represent God's Word and I will pray for youthat you will faithfully receive it.Father, we come to you and we bring all of our pain to you.All of our fears are all of our deepest, darkest worries that we're afraid to admit to otherpeople.Lord in this room, I'm sure there's many, many stories of rejection.Many, many stories of feeling like we don't belong and I'm sure if we brought everybodyup on stage to share how they feel that there wouldn't be a dry eye in the house today.Lord, we ask that you bring the comfort that only you can.That you would challenge us, you would tear us down so that you can build us back up again.Lord, I do ask for myself, Lord, your Word is perfect, but I am not.I do not feel up to the task of proclaiming such a glorious passage, but Lord, give meyour strength, give me your wisdom.I pray for everyone in this room that you would give them the faith to receive your Wordtoday.I pray that you would seek and save the lost.Thanks for the rest of us, Lord.We would walk out of this room with a greater sense of confidence in who we belong to.We ask all this in Jesus' mighty name.Amen.Was a quick refresher.Let's reread the verses that Pastor Jeff covered last week.This will set the table and help us to understand the context of our passage this morning.So John chapter one, verses one through three.In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.He was in the beginning with God.All things were made through Him, and without Him was not anything made that was made.These verses are all about who Jesus is.He is the Word of God who created all things.Without Jesus, this universe would not exist.This world would not exist.You would not exist.Jesus is the source and sustainer of everything that you can see and everything that you cannotsee.Jesus isn't just the Word of God.John says that He is God Himself.Verses one through three focus on who Jesus is, while verses four through thirteen focuson what Jesus gives.If you properly understand who Jesus is and what Jesus gives, you will want to belongto Him.You will want to belong to Him because no one can compare to who Jesus is, and nothingcan compare to what Jesus gives.So outline for this morning, I want to belong to Jesus.I want to belong to Jesus, first reason, because He gives me an unbeatable hope.Because He gives me an unbeatable hope.Let's read chapter one, verse four.In Him, in Jesus was life, and the life was the light of men.Life was and is found in Jesus and Him alone.As we already discussed, Jesus made all things.He is the source of all life on earth.He is the cause of everything.But He's not just the cause of physical life.He is the only supplier of eternal life as well.There is no other viable option to turn to or to search for besides Jesus.But that doesn't stop us from trying, does it?Millions have tried, and billions have failed in trying to find true life apart from Jesus.And you and I have tried our hand at this pointless search as well.Trying to find life in our jobs, in our finances, in our status, our stuff, and even our families.Life cannot be found in your job.You realize that one day you will have to retire.You may let go from that job.One day that job will belong to someone else.Your life is not found in how much money you have.Let me ask you a question.How much of the money in your various accounts will you be able to take with you when youdie?Do we not know the answer?Not a single dime.Life is not found in your status and popularity.There will always be someone bigger and better than you.In 150 or 200 years, how many people on this planet will be thinking about you?The most likely answer is not a single soul.Life is not even found in your family.As great as your spouse, your kids, your relatives might be, they cannot meet the deepest needsof your soul.Can your spouse forgive you of your sins?Can your kids give you that unbeatable hope that you're looking for?No.Can your family guarantee your eternity?No.All of those needs can only be met by Jesus Christ, who is the only source of life.And John goes on to say that this life was the light of men.That sounds pretty cool, right?But what does that actually mean?The life was the light of men.I'm no scientist, but let me give you a quick pop quiz in astronomy.What do all the plants in this solar system orbit around?You're all really tired this morning.What is it again?All right, very, very good.Could we survive without the sun?What does the sun do for us?Is the major source of life because it is the major source of light and heat on thisplanet without the sun shining as it does, we would all freeze to death without the sunshining as it does.We would not be able to see anything.We would be lost in the darkness without the light of Christ shining as it does.We would not be able to see and understand the truth without the light of Christ shiningas it does.We would not know how to be saved.We would not know how to have a relationship, a friendship with God without the light ofChrist shining as it does.We would be hopeless and lost in the darkness of our sin without the light of Christ shiningas it does.None of us would have any spiritual life.Who is the light of the sun offered to?The 8.3 billion people on this planet.Who is the light of the sun of God offered to?Same exact answer, the 8.3 billion people on this planet.As we'll see in a few minutes, many choose to hide from this light and by doing so, theymiss out on the life that he offers.But that does not stop Jesus from shining his light, which we see in verse 5.Read that with me."The light shines in the darkness and the darkness has not overcome it."The word "overcome" in this verse can also be translated as "comprehended" or "understood."And many scholars believe that John picked this word for a very specific reason.He chose this word because it has a double meaning.Each of these words makes sense in context or flip sides of one another.Let's cover one side of the coin first.Let's cover the light, shines in the darkness and the darkness has not overcome it.I walk my dog Murdoch almost every single night at 10 p.m. after the family is asleep.And my wife hates this plan because she thinks I'm going to get pan-kicked by a car.It hasn't happened yet, so please just pray for me that this trend continues and I'm ableto be safe.But there is this one house in my neighborhood that fascinates me.This house has a lamppost in the front yard that shines brightly for about 10 to 20 seconds,then it just shuts off.And it comes back on a few seconds later and it happens every single night for the pastyear.And this may sound strange to you, but I think about that lamppost almost every single day.Every single time I exit the house to go take Murdoch on this walk, I wonder, is tonightgoing to be the night when that light is extinguished?Is tonight the night when darkness will overcome that person's yard?Because there's something wrong with that lamppost.There's something wrong with the bulb.There's something wrong with the wiring.It's just a matter of time.I don't have much faith in that lamppost.I don't think you would have much faith in that lamppost if you took a field trip tomy neighborhood and drove past it.But do you know who you should have total and complete faith in?Do you know whose light you should never wonder or worry about being extinguished?Jesus Christ.The light of His glory never flickers.The light of His gracious love never turns off.He is the same yesterday, today, and forever.No matter how dark this world gets, no matter how bleak your life looks, Jesus Christ isshining just as brightly as He always has.Sin, injustice, and evil cannot lower the intensity of who He is and what He has done.Nothing and no one can turn the dimmer switch down on the light of the world.Let's flip over to the other side of the coin.The light shines in the darkness and the darkness has not understood it.You know, Satan and his demons are crafty.I'll give them that.They are intelligent.But at the same time, these evil forces are complete morons in comparison to the all-knowingall-wise God of the universe.The devil and his demons are fighting a losing battle because they cannot figure out a wayto extinguish the light of Christ.They're like a bunch of roided-up bodybuilders trying to push over a mountain with theirbare hands.It's just not going to happen.Their attempts to snuff out the light only fan it into flame even more.The harder they try, the harder they fail.No matter what they do, Jesus keeps forgiving more and more people.No matter what they try, the church keeps getting built up.No matter what scheme they hatch, the kingdom of God keeps advancing.Satan and his workers have already been defeated by the life, death, and resurrection of Christ.They know that eternal judgment awaits them.Are they going to go quietly without a fight until Jesus returns?No, they are kicking and screaming like bratty children.And I know that they're kicking and screaming causes a lot of pain and hardship to everysingle person in this room.But they cannot change the ending that God has already written.The light will win because the darkness cannot overcome it or understand it.That is certain.That is a fact.Maybe you've been a believer for months, for years, and maybe even for decades.And you know the truths of verses four and five intellectually.You have a very hard time believing these truths emotionally and experientially.You're in a tough season right now and you feel like the darkness is winning.You feel like the light is losing.You feel like the darkness understands how to overcome the light just fine.You feel like you cannot have victory over that sin pattern in your life.You feel like there is more sin in you than there is mercy in Christ.You feel helpless.You feel hopeless.If that's how you feel right now, my heart goes out to you because I've been there before.And I'm sure I'll be there again.If that's how you feel, I want to challenge you to stop looking at you.Stop looking at your circumstances.Fix your eyes on Jesus.Focus your attention on what He has given to you.Root your confidence in the new and everlasting life that has been given to you.Ask the Holy Spirit to re-energize you with the light you see when you open up the pagesof this book during your daily quiet time.You understand your hope is not found in you.You understand that your hope is not even found in your circumstances changing.Your hope is found in belonging to Christ.When you belong to Christ, you are given an unbeatable hope from an unbeatable Savior.I want to belong to Jesus because He gives me an unbeatable hope.I want to belong to Jesus because He gives me a meaningful mission.That's the second reason on your outline, because He gives me a meaningful mission.In verses 4 through 5, John talks about the message of the light.In verses 6 through 8, John talks about the messenger of the light.Let's read these verses together.There is a man sent from God whose name was John.He came as a witness to bear witness about the light that all might believe through Him.He was not the light that came to bear witness about the light.To be clear, John is referencing a totally different John here.It's kind of confusing.What John is he talking about?John the Baptist.Why couldn't they have had a different name?Why couldn't it have been like Bill the Baptist or Baron the Baptist or whatever?Why did it have to be John?Well, don't worry.We'll make it work.We'll deal with it.John the Baptist was sent by God as a messenger to prepare the way for the promised Messiahand Savior who was prophesied about all throughout the Old Testament.John was prophesied of in the Old Testament as well.Isaiah 40 verse 3, "A voice cries in the wilderness, 'Prepare the way of the Lord,make straight in the desert a highway for our God.'Malachi 3, 1, 'Behold, I send my messenger, and he will prepare the way before me.'"John the Baptist came to roll out the red carpet for the coming king.He didn't come so that others would believe in him and believe in his greatness.He came so that others might believe in Christ through him.John the Baptist's followers once came to him to give him the news that a lot of peoplewere following Jesus.He was getting more popular and his disciples were even baptizing people, which is kindof like John's main thing.It's his name, right?John the Baptist.Like, John, don't you realize that all this is happening?Jesus is getting more popular than you.Is this frustrate John?Was he jealous?Not at all.He was actually really, really excited because he was successfully carrying out the meaningfulmission that God had entrusted to him.Here's the response he gives his disciples.He says, "He, Jesus, must increase, but I must decrease."That was the slogan of John's life in ministry.That should be the slogan of your life in ministry as well.He must increase, but I must decrease.You realize you're not the point of anything.Jesus is.John the Baptist wasn't the point of anything either.Jesus was.His mission was to point everyone to Christ, to bear witness to his light.I know what some of you serious students of the Bible may be thinking right now.You're internally objecting a bit.Hold on a minute, Pastor Taylor.You're saying that Jesus is the light and John the Baptist wasn't.But later on in this gospel, didn't Jesus say that John was like a lamp that was shining?And doesn't Jesus tell us that all Christians are the light of the world?How does this all make sense?Yeah, Jesus does say that in Matthew 5, 14, and then John 5, 35.To help answer those great questions, let me slip on my lab coat again and give you anotherpop quiz in astronomy.When you look up in the night sky and you see the moon shining bright.Does that moon actually have any light of its own?Where does its light come from?The sun, the light of the moon is shared and reflected.It's the same for John and it's the same for you and me.We have a shared and reflected light that is given to us by Jesus Christ.All throughout John chapter one, verses four through 13, the Greek word "phos" is usedin reference to Christ and "phos" is the essence of light.In John 5, 35, the Greek word "looknos" is used to describe John.A looknos is a portable lamp.Jesus is the light while John is the lamp that displays the light.A candle cannot shine on its own.It needs to be given the light of a flame.A lamp in your house cannot shine on its own.It needs to be given the light of a bulb.Jesus Christ is the sun and you are the moon.Jesus Christ is the flame, you are the candle.Jesus Christ is the bulb and you are the lamp.You are here on this earth to display His light to everyone, to shine His light in thedarkness, to bear witness about His light because you have none of your own.And I know what some of you were thinking at this point.Okay, Taylor, I know I need to buckle down and share the gospel.I need to make disciples.I need to shine His light everywhere.I'll do that as soon as the holidays are over.Whatever Christmas is in the rear view mirror, I'll get right on that.No, you won't.And you're thinking, where is your Christmas cheer, Pastor Taylor?What do you mean, no, I won't.I mean, you won't.If you will not bear witness the light of Christ today, what makes you think you'lldo it tomorrow?If you were unwilling to bear witness the light of Christ at the end of 2025, what makesyou think you'll be willing to do it at the start of 2026?Do you understand that Christmas is the perfect time to bear witness to the light of Christ?This is the time when you're around people, you're not usually around.This time of season is all about joy, but most people are miserable.Most people are looking for something that they cannot find because they're looking inthe wrong place.Right now is the perfect time to bear witness to the light.Grab a bunch of the Christmas Eve invite cards at the back table and hand them out as ifyou were given $100 for each one you handed out.I'm not going to give you $100, but the rewards you get in heaven for that will be infinitelygreater.Grab one of those invites, put it in an envelope, put money in that envelope, put a personalnote in that envelope and give it to your mailman tomorrow.Take it upon yourself to read scripture, your family get together this week and talk aboutwhy you're even celebrating Christmas, why Jesus came in the first place.Stop putting off that gospel conversation with that unsafe family member at Christmas.Finally do it.Invite that unbeliever who has no family in the area to your Christmas dinner.Buy them a Bible.Write a note in that Bible and give it to them.I keep going and going and going.There are so many ways to bear witness to the light of Christ this week.Don't make excuses for why you can't.Don't point to your calendar and say you're too busy.This is the reason why you're here, isn't it?To bear witness to the light.If anything, there's other things getting the way of the most important thing on your calendar.Don't justify your fear and laziness by saying you don't want to stir the pot this Christmas.You just want to have a calm Christmas.Shouldn't you care more about sharing the peace of Christ with your family and friends?When you belong to Christ, you recognize that you've been given a meaningful mission.When you belong to Christ, you value your calling way more than your comfort.When you belong to Christ, you make disciples, you don't make excuses.When you belong to Christ, you bear witness to his light because the darkness is everywherethat you go.I want to belong to Jesus because he gives me an unbeatable hope.I want to belong to Jesus because he gives me a meaningful mission.I want to belong to Jesus, final reason, because he gives me a spot in his family that I cannotearn.Because he gives me a spot in his family that I cannot earn.We talked about the message of the light and the messenger of the light.Now we're going to wrap up by talking about the two responses to the message of the light.The first response is in verses 9 through 11.The true light which gives light to everyone was coming into the world.He was in the world and the world was made through him, yet the world did not know him.He came to his own and his own people did not receive him.As I said earlier, the light of the Son of God is offered to everyone.Anyone is welcome to step into the light.Anyone is welcome to receive the life of Christ and be forever changed.But most choose to step out of the light rather than do it.Most choose to reject the life of Christ that is offered.And this is proven by verse 11.He came to his own people and his own people did not receive him.And this verse has two different focuses.When you zoom out, John is talking about mankind.Statistically and biblically, there are way more non-Christians than Christians.There are way more people who reject Christ than receive him.We all agree on that basic fact of life.But if you zoom in, John is talking about Israel.Many of Jesus' fellow Jews rejected him, hated him, called for his crucifixion.Many of the Jews rejected the message of Christ when it was shared by the apostles.Even to this day, many Jewish people refuse to accept that Jesus is the light.That's not always going to be the case.All does say in Romans that one day all Israel will be saved.Do you have time to talk about that right now?As Pastor Jeff often says, "Buy me some Pantera bread or Chick-fil-A."We'll talk about it across the street sometime.Here's an important question.Why do most people reject Jesus?Why do most people not receive the light of Christ?John gives us a very simple yet sad answer.Later on in this Gospel in chapter 3 verses 19 through 20, he writes, "And this is thejudgment.The light is coming to the world, and people love the darkness rather than the light, becausetheir works were evil.For everyone who does wicked things hates the light and does not come to the light,lest his works should be exposed."Have you ever been sleeping or laying in a dark room and suddenly someone turns thelights on?Are you overjoyed by this?Are you really excited by this?What's your natural human response?What do you do?You close your eyes, you cover your face with your hands and your blanket, you yell, "Turnthat light out!"That is the natural human response, physically and spiritually.It is far more comfortable to lay in the darkness than be in the light.It's simpler to be oblivious and not see yourself for who you really are.It's effortless to do nothing about your greatest problem, which is your sinful nature.It's easy to lash out at those who try to pull you into the light.That is why most people do not receive Jesus.They'd rather lay in the darkness.They love their sin more than Him.That's the first response to the message of the light.John says there's only one other response, and that's in verses 12 to 13, the best partof this entire passage.But to all who did receive Him, who believed in His name, He gave the right to become childrenof God, who were born not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will ofman, but of God.The first and wrong way to respond to Jesus is rejection.The second and right way to respond to Jesus is receiving and believing.You reach out to receive the gift of eternal life by believing in the name of Jesus Christ.We say that all the time, but what does it mean to believe in the name of Jesus?Well a name represents all of who a person is and all that a person does.When you believe in the name of Jesus Christ, you are believing that He is who the Biblesays that He is.That He has done all the Bible says He has done.You wholeheartedly believe that He is the Word of God who created all things.You have faith that He is the light of the world.He is your only source of hope.You trust that He is the Savior who died on the cross for your sins, who took the punishmentthat you deserve.You submit to the reality that He is the Lord of your life, who has the divine right totell you what to think, say, and do.When you receive Jesus and believe in His name, John says that you are given the rightto become a child of God.There are only two children in this entire world who have the right to claim that theyare my kids.I love all the kids in this church, but I love two of those kids the most.Only two of those kids have a legal right to say that I am their father.Only Samuel and Emmy Brown have that legal right.What's the evidence of this?Well, Kate and I have their birth certificates at home as proof that those kids belong tous.When you belong to Christ, your spiritual birth certificate is signed and sealed by His ownblood.You are given the right to claim God as your father and Jesus as your big brother.You have given the right to declare that you belong to the greatest family imaginable.Can you earn this right?Can you work your way into the family of God?Not according to John at the end of verse 13, he says, "Who were born not of blood northe will of flesh, nor the will of man, but of God."You are not given the right to become a child of God because you're a good person who doesnice things for other people.You are not given the right to become a child of God because your parents are great Christiansand raised you in the church.You are not given the right to become a child of God because you come to church every oncein a while.You pray regularly and do community service projects.You are not given the right to become a child of God because of your track record and yourgood works.You are given the right to become a child of God because of the gracious work of God inChrist.That's it.That's the only source.How do you respond to Jesus?Do you reject Him or do you receive Him?Do you believe in His name, His work, and His reputation, or do you believe in your name,your works, and your reputation?One response leads to eternal destruction while the other leads to eternal life.One response leads to everything being taken away from you and the other leads to everythingbeing given to you.Please don't leave this room without considering who Jesus is and what He is offering you.Everything hinges on your response to Him.What do you want for Christmas?Do you want to belong to the world or do you want to belong to Jesus?Do you want to settle for the flickering hopes of this sinful culture or do you want theunbeatable hope of an unbeatable Savior?Do you want to lead a meaningless existence or do you want to carry out the meaningfulmission of pointing others to the point of life?Do you want to be a child of the devil who absolutely hates you or do you want to bea child of God who unconditionally loves you?If you have not yet believed and received Jesus, now is your chance.Now is your opportunity.You don't know if you're getting another opportunity past this one, so don't waste it.The life of Christ is being offered to you right now.Don't slap the gift away.The light of Christ is shining in this moment.Do not step back into the darkness once again.Now is your time.Now is your chance.You're alive right now.You're not guaranteed tomorrow.Life is hard.Discouragements and disappointments are all around us.It's so easy to lose track of what's important in the darkness.And we need the light of biblical reminders to let us know what is true, what is real,and what is right.This ring I wear on my left hand is a symbol that I belong to my wife.I'm taken.I'm out looking for anybody else to give me that feeling right to belong to.The Lord's Supper is a powerful symbol that you belong to Christ and no one else.You're spoken for by the Son of God and you're not looking for anyone else to give your life meaning.You're not looking to anything else to give your life meaning.

In this sermon, Pastor Jeff concludes an Advent series by exploring the theme of divine love through a comparison of microscopic and telescopic perspectives. He argues that the human heart's natural tendency is to act like a microscope, zooming in on personal hardships until they dominate one's field of vision and obscure faith. To counter this, he encourages the congregation to adopt a telescopic view, which brings the immense scale of God's affection and grace into clear focus. By referencing the biblical examples of David and Mary, the speaker illustrates how individuals can intentionally pivot from magnifying their anxieties to exalting the greatness of Christ. Ultimately, the text serves as a pastoral invitation to recognize the incarnation as the ultimate evidence of a love that is larger than any earthly struggle.Support the showThanks for listening! Follow us on Facebook or Instagram more info colonialkc.org

This week is our Annual Christmas Program, which will feature a variety of drama, wonderful Christmas music (including a couple numbers from our kids), and a brief homily from Pastor Jeff that draws it all together. Last Sunday got snowed out, so let's pack the house this week, as we celebrate the birth of Jesus!

Wouldn't we love to get the most out of church every time we attend? Well, as humans, there are always going to be things trying to distract us when we spend time in God's presence. But Pastor Jeff encourages us to approach God with thanksgiving in our hearts, and to clear our minds of things that are distracting or that shut us out from good and righteous thoughts. The enemy doesn't want us to spend time in worship, and he will try and throw every possible obstacle in our way to distract us.

So far in this series from Judges 6 & 7, we see example of Gideon: Soley depending on God Being truly obedient to God and waiting to hear God’s great encouragement In this episode Pastor Jeff finishes his message that speaks about 'staying off God's throne'.Support the show: https://www.oneandall.church/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's Fri-YAY and shout-out day with Pastor Jeff! Today, in our Christmas series, he shares from John 3:16—the shining "star" of the Christmas story that reminds us of God's amazing love. John 3:16 16 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

Today, Pastor Jeff talks about Christmas and bread—reminding us that every time we see bread this season, we can remember Jesus, the One who satisfies our spiritual hunger and gives us everlasting life. John 6:35 35 Then Jesus declared, "I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.

So far in this series from Judges 6 & 7, we see example of Gideon: Soley depending on God Being truly obedient to God and waiting to hear God’s great encouragement In this episode of Today with Jeff Vines, Pastor Jeff is talking about 'staying off God's throne'.Support the show: https://www.oneandall.church/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We are still making our way through the Unpossible series from Judges. Pastor Jeff still has more resolutions to come, as he looks at Gideon and the resolutions we find in these verses. Last episode we started this message about 'what's happening on the other side of the camp'. Today we hear the rest of the message with Pastor Jeff.Support the show: https://www.oneandall.church/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, Pastor Jeff talks about the Christmas color green and reminds us that Jesus, our Good Shepherd, leads us into green pastures. Psalm 23:2 He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters,

Today, Pastor Jeff shares about the color white as he continues to share about the Christmas colors. Isaiah 1:18 18 "Come now, let us settle the matter,"     says the Lord. "Though your sins are like scarlet,     they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson,     they shall be like wool.

Today we continue with Pastor Jeff's UNPOSSIBLE series. Over the course of this series, Pastor Jeff' is explaining 7 'resolutions' found in Judges 6 and 7. Today he's up to number 5. In these verses we see how God sent Gideon great encouragement when he really needed it.Support the show: https://www.oneandall.church/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this final episode of our Family God's Way series, Pastor Jeff explores two pillars essential to every Christian household: the wisdom of God and the grace of God. Drawing from Proverbs 3:5–6 and Acts 20:32, we discover that families cannot flourish on human insight or human strength alone. Instead, the Lord invites us to trust Him with all our hearts, acknowledge Him in every matter, and receive the supernatural strength that comes through His grace. This episode unpacks: Why marriages and families must learn to lean on the Lord's understanding—not their own How God promises to direct our paths when we acknowledge Him in all things The indispensable role of grace in sustaining relationships, overcoming weakness, and walking in unity Why Christian homes must become households of prayer, continually seeking God's help and enabling How the Lord builds, strengthens, and upholds the family by His Spirit If you long for a home guided by God's wisdom and strengthened by His grace, this episode will point you back to the One who faithfully leads, empowers, and builds every household that trusts in Him.   Many believers want to help others but feel unprepared to counsel Biblically. If that's you, you're not alone. We train Christians to counsel with Scripture so they can help hurting people find hope in Christ. At the Biblical Counseling Academy, you'll receive clear and practical training rooted in God's Word—designed for real ministry and real people. In as little as 12 months, with just 5 hours per week, you'll be equipped and certified to counsel with confidence and clarity. If you sense the Lord calling you to grow in this area…

Today we continue with Pastor Jeff's UNPOSSIBLE series. Over the course of this series, Pastor Jeff' is explaining 7 'resolutions' found in Judges 6 and 7. Today he's up to number 5. In these verses we see how God sent Gideon great encouragement when he really needed it.Support the show: https://www.oneandall.church/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today in our Christmas series, Pastor Jeff shares about the color red—found in ornaments, candy canes, and everywhere in between—and how it reminds us of Jesus, the true reason for the season! Matthew 26:28 28 This is my blood of the[a] covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.

In this episode of Walking with God, Pat and Jeff talk about what is actually important.  Is it money?  Is it recognition?   Listen to this episode and find out.   Note: The opinions expressed in this podcast are those of Pat Barry and Jeff Quinto and may not reflect the opinions of the Bethel Bible Series or Bethel Lutheran Church.   Soli Deo Gloria!

Hey YC Online! ABOUT YOSEMITE CHURCH: Our mission is meeting people where they are and loving them to where Christ wants them to be. Yosemite Church wants to help you find your next step. Find locations, videos, and more info about us at https://yc.church/ or download the Yosemite Church app. NEXT STEPS: Have you made a decision to follow Jesus? You may be wondering what's next on your journey. We want to help! Let us guide you to your next steps in your walk with Christ: https://yc.church/baptism GIVE ONLINE: https://pushpay.com/g/yosemitechurch FIND US ON SOCIAL MEDIA: https://www.facebook.com/yosemitechurch https://www.instagram.com/yosemitechurch/ All music performed under CCLI Licenses: 6010 and CSPL028666

Have you ever wondered what it takes to transform a fierce enemy of faith into its greatest advocate? In Acts 9, we witness this extraordinary metamorphosis as Saul—Christianity's most notorious persecutor—encounters the living Christ. Pastor Jeff masterfully unpacks how this dramatic conversion showcases God's power to change even the most hardened hearts. Through vivid storytelling and biblical insight, he reveals how true transformation demands full surrender, genuine submission, and bold proclamation of faith. Whether you're questioning your own journey or seeking to understand God's transformative power, this message offers hope and practical wisdom for authentic spiritual change. Don't miss this compelling exploration of how God can radically redirect any life that surrenders to Him. Speaker: Jeff Schwarzentraub

Welcome to the weekly sermon podcast from Harvest Bible Chapel in Chicago. We're so glad you're joining us. Today, we start our Christmas series, Birth of the King, in Matthew 1:18–25. While Luke's Gospel highlights Mary and the shepherds, Matthew draws our attention to what we might call the boys of Christmas—men like Joseph, Herod, and the wise men—each responding differently to the arrival of Jesus. In this message, Pastor Jeff Bucknam helps us see who Jesus truly is and what faithful obedience looks like through the life of Joseph. As we open God's Word together, we're invited to consider how we respond to the coming of the true King. Let's dive in and become more deeply rooted in God's Word. Executive Producer: Flavius Herlo Speaker: Pastor Jeff Bucknam Sound design, mixing, and editing: Bryan Tripp Graphic Design: Wesley Cassford Social Media: Bryan Spahr Producer: Dave Putnam WE INVITE YOU TO CONNECT WITH US: • Website: www.harvestbible.org/ WE INVITE YOU TO FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA: • Instagram: @harvestbiblechapel • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/harvestbiblechapel/

Christmas

This week, Pastor Jeff continues a series in the book of Acts named ACTS: The Mission of God is Our Mission. The next message in the series is based in Acts 10:1-48 and is entitled "The Gospel for All People." The main idea of the sermon is: God grants salvation to all people regardless of their ethnic or religious background. ————————  Connect with Us: Website: parkwoodonline.org Facebook: facebook.com/parkwoodonline Instagram: instagram.com/parkwoodonline.org  Check out more resources and sermons online at: parkwoodresources.org

When the angels announced the birth of Jesus, they said they had a message that "will fill everyone with joy." Joy is a fundamental part of our faith. In today's message, Pastor Jeff discusses what it means to have a festive faith and how we can all acquire it.Prayed to accept Jesus? Congratulations! Text SAVED to 337-222-3210 or click here https://bit.ly/CC_saved New to Crossroads Church? Learn all about us at https://mycrossroads.org 

In this sermon, Pastor Jeff shared how Jesus came at just the right time to redeem us and how we share in His inheritance. 

Welcome to #SundaysatTCAB! Today we coninue our Christmas sermon series, The Greates Gift. Pastor Mark Boyett will be teaching the third name for Jesus found in Isaiah 9:6, Everlasting Father. We pray today's service brings you hope and encouragement. New to The Church at Bushland? Tell us a little about you and receive a personal note from Pastor Jeff. First Time Guest: https://www.thechurchatbushland.com/guestform?location=livestream How can we pray for you? Submit your prayer request here: https://www.thechurchatbushland.com/prayerrequest Subscribe to get the latest videos: https://www.youtube.com/c/TheChurchAtBushland We also have our newest channel, @TCABClips, with sermon and worship highlights and short content from Digging for the Truth. Subscribe, turn on notifications, and never miss an episode! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6VflV8HJUd-6vTX9CSJRKw Listen while you work, exercise, or whatever keeps you busy: Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/channel/the-church-at-bushland/id6442779332 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/077EsZwp6Y7pPhv7X8mXEY?si=893d09eeae9142d5 Support the online ministry at TCAB. Join the giving team today! https://www.thechurchatbushland.com/giving Download the TCAB App today! iOS - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-church-at-bushland/id1495461805 Android - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.kidunottech.culminate.tcab Connect with The Church at Bushland: Website | https://thechurchatbushland.com Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/thechurchatbushland/ Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/thechurchatbushland/

In the midst of the busyness of the Christmas season do you ever wonder if all the hustle and bustle is really worth it? Is Christmas really that big of a deal? Join us this Sunday as we continue in our Advent series, "God With Us." This week we have the joy of hearing from Pastor Warren Boettcher. He is the lead pastor of the church that sent out the team that started Christ Church, but more importantly, he is Pastor Jeff's dad. He will be preaching a sermon entitled "Christ Our Champion" from Hebrews 2:14-18.

Do you ever find yourself pushing too hard, moving too fast, or refusing to slow down? Pastor Jeff teaches on how God never asks us to live at an unhealthy pace in order to fulfill His purpose. 

Today we continue with Pastor Jeff’s UNPOSSIBLE series. Over the course of this series, Pastor Jeff’ is explaining 7 ’resolutions’ found in Judges 6 and 7. Today he’s up to number 5. In these verses we see how God sent Gideon great encouragement when he really needed it.Support the show: https://www.oneandall.church/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today is FRI-YAY! and shout-out day. Pastor Jeff shares about roads and how Jesus is the only way to God the Father. John 14:6 6 Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.

In this episode Pastor Jeff continues his UNPOSSIBLE series He's making his way through Judges 7, and the lessons we can learn from the actions of Gideon. Pastor Jeff has identified 7 resolutions that can help guide our lives. In this message he's up to resolution number 4, about learning to SOLELY DEPEND ON GOD.Support the show: https://www.oneandall.church/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pastor Jeff shares today about having crosses on a Christmas tree and why the cross is so essential for each of us. Philippians 2:8 8 And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross!

Message by Pastor Jeff Schreve on Wednesday, December 10, 2025

In this episode Pastor Jeff continues his UNPOSSIBLE series He’s making his way through Judges 7, and the lessons we can learn from the actions of Gideon. He’s identified 7 resolutions in these verses, that can help guide our lives. Pastor Jeff is up to resolution number 4, about learning to SOLELY DEPEND ON GOD.Support the show: https://www.oneandall.church/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, Pastor Jeff shares about stars and how God orchestrated a special star to guide the wise men to meet Jesus, the King of kings. Matthew 2:2 2 and asked, "Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him."

Children's message and sermon from Pastor Jeff Sorenson on the 2nd Sunday of Advent, December 7, 2025.

What does it really look like for the Lord to build a home? In this episode, Pastor Jeff continues the "Family God's Way" series by exploring three essential pillars of a God-built household: His Purpose, His Church, and His Glory. Drawing from 1 Peter 2:9–10, Ephesians 1:22 23, and Colossians 1:18, we discover that: We are not just families—we are God's people, redeemed to proclaim His praises. We were never designed to grow alone—God shapes marriages and families through His church, the fullness of Christ. Above all, the Christian home exists for His glory, that Christ may have the preeminence in all things. Pastor Jeff unpacks how these truths transform everyday family life, calling husbands, wives, parents, and children to live with a higher purpose than personal comfort or cultural ideals. When God's purposes guide the home, when the church supports and strengthens it, and when Christ is exalted above all, the household becomes a living testimony of His grace. If you long for a marriage and family shaped not by self-interest but by Scripture, this episode will encourage, challenge, and refocus your heart on the One who builds the home. Many believers want to help others but feel unprepared to counsel Biblically. If that's you, you're not alone. We train Christians to counsel with Scripture so they can help hurting people find hope in Christ. At the Biblical Counseling Academy, you'll receive clear and practical training rooted in God's Word—designed for real ministry and real people. In as little as 12 months, with just 5 hours per week, you'll be equipped and certified to counsel with confidence and clarity. If you sense the Lord calling you to grow in this area…

Send us a textPastor Todd and Pastor Jeff discuss division, disappointment, and desertion.#SundayNightService #RIP #RealRawUncutFollow us on YouTube, IG, Twitter, and FB!Hosts: Pastor Todd and Pastor JeffProduced by: Marsh Media Group LLCProduction: Big MikeDesign by: Larry JohnsonMusic: J. Austin & Tevin MichaelFOLLOW:WEBSITE: http://www.ReligiouslyIncorrectPodcas...FACEBOOK:   / religiouslyincorrectpodcast  TWITTER:   / officialripc  INSTAGRAM:   / religiouslyincorrectpodcast  

Welcome to the Harvest Bible Chapel podcast. Today, we come to the final message in our series through the Book of James—True Religion. We've spent weeks looking at what genuine faith looks like in real life, and now, as we close, James gives us a sobering and hopeful word about “the wanderer.” From James 5:19–20, Pastor Jeff Bucknam will help us wrestle with a vital question: What should we think and do when someone drifts from the truth? We'll consider the problem of wandering, the danger it brings, and the loving calling of God's people to seek the wanderer out. Here's Pastor Jeff with this weekend's message: “What About the Wanderer?” Executive Producer: Flavius Herlo Speaker: Pastor Jeff Bucknam Sound design, mixing, and editing: Bryan Tripp Graphic Design: Wesley Cassford Social Media: Bryan Spahr Producer: Dave Putnam WE INVITE YOU TO CONNECT WITH US: • Website: www.harvestbible.org/ WE INVITE YOU TO FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA: • Instagram: @harvestbiblechapel • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/harvestbiblechapel/