Podcasts about pastor josiah

“What a God! What a God!” we sang as His presence filled the room. Pastor Josiah reminded us that Faith Chapel's mission is to culture like Christ and our vision is Jesus. Continuing from past messages of “Championship Faith” and Bartimaeus' healing, we encountered Zacchaeus—the rich tax collector who climbed a sycamore tree to see Jesus. Though Zacchaeus tried to hide, Jesus saw him, called him by name, and brought salvation to his house. Pastor Josiah emphasized that we can't hide forever; God sees us even in our shame and calls us into His light. Just like Zacchaeus, one encounter with Jesus transforms everything—He seeks, He saves, and He restores what was broken.

In this powerful message from Luke 19, we're reminded that the arrival of God's kingdom is not primarily about timing but about a Person—Jesus—who came “to seek and save the lost,” and whose presence brings the kingdom wherever He is. Using the parable of the nobleman and his servants, Pastor Josiah calls us to take seriously the assignments and opportunities we've been entrusted with now, because our faithfulness in the present realm prepares us for greater responsibility in the coming realm. The sermon warns against a fearful, passive faith that hides what's been given and instead urges risk, investment, and bold obedience—because sitting on what God gives results in loss, while faithful use multiplies it. The bottom line: make Jesus and His word your priority, let them shape how you live, and then step out to blitz culture with the message and power of God—He's already given you what you need to honor Him.

This message reveals the power and majesty of El Elyon — God Most High, the One who rules above all powers, kingdoms, and names. From Melchizedek blessing Abram to the fiery furnace where Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego stood unshaken, we see that El Elyon is not just sovereign in title but supreme in authority and presence. He alone establishes boundaries for the seas, commands the angels, and reigns as refuge for those who dwell in His shadow. Jesus, our eternal High Priest in the order of Melchizedek, embodies this same Most High God — the One who delivers, protects, and reigns forever. This sermon calls us to recognize His unmatched supremacy, to place no other gods before Him, and to live anchored in the confidence that there is truly no other God who can rescue, reign, or redeem like El Elyon.

"Relationship Reset" In part four of this series, Pastor Josiah and Natalie address practical questions about maintaining godly relationships while keeping Christ at the center. They provide practical guidance on date nights, pursuing relationships, and dealing with burnout, always pointing back to seeking first the kingdom of God and allowing the Spirit, not just the letter of the law, to guide our decisions.Join us for Thrive Church In person (more info here) or Online Sundays 2:30PM (MT) on Youtube Want to partner with Thrive Church:https://www.thrivecalgary.ca/give-online  

After a time of congregational sharing of how God had revealed Himself in their lives, Pastor Josiah led a brief devotional and time of directed praying with the RoL attenders

"Relationship Reset" In part three of this series, Pastor Josiah addresses the importance of establishing biblical boundaries in relationships to help them flourish rather than struggle. God has established clear guidelines for relationships that define what is "in play" and "out of bounds." The message emphasizes that boundaries don't restrict life but actually enable us to live more fully, just as children with clear boundaries explore more freely than those without themJoin us for Thrive Church In person (more info here) or Online Sundays 2:30PM (MT) on Youtube Want to partner with Thrive Church:https://www.thrivecalgary.ca/give-online  

"Relationship Reset" In Part two of this series, Pastor Josiah draws parallels between Olympic athletes and Christian living, this sermon challenges believers to approach their relationships with the same intensity, purpose, and intentionality that athletes bring to competition. The ultimate goal is not merely participation but winning—achieving deep, meaningful, flourishing relationships that honor God and bring lasting fulfillment. Join us for Thrive Church In person (more info here) or Online Sundays 2:30PM (MT) on Youtube Want to partner with Thrive Church:https://www.thrivecalgary.ca/give-online  

Have you ever felt unworthy of God's grace? Have you ever felt too ashamed to come to Christ with your sins? If so, then this message is for you! In his message, “A Savior For Sinners,” centered on Luke 5:1-32, Pastor Josiah shows us how Jesus came to seek and to save those who are lost or have tried to hide from his presence for fear that they will be rejected or condemned. God's word tells us that Jesus did not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance! Therefore, today is the day to come to Jesus in repentant faith, because he alone has the power to forgive your sins.

In this powerful message, Pastor Josiah reminds us that our mission is to culture like Christ and our vision is Jesus. Looking at the story of Bartimaeus in Mark 10, we see how our true identity in Christ should shape our circumstances—not the other way around. Like Bartimaeus, we are called to throw off the old coat, cry out in faith, and pursue Jesus with everything in us. When we understand who we are in Him—chosen, redeemed, forgiven, and loved—our breakthroughs become moments that lead us into deeper devotion. May this message stir your heart to trust, surrender, and follow Jesus wherever He leads.

"Relationship Reset " In part one of this series, Pastor Josiah focuses on the transformative power of words in our relationships, emphasizing that our speech can either bring life and growth or death and decay. Through intentional use of timing, tone, and truth, believers can reset destructive communication patterns and build relationships according to God's design.Join us for Thrive Church In person (more info here) or Online Sundays 2:30PM (MT) on Youtube Want to partner with Thrive Church:https://www.thrivecalgary.ca/give-online 

Experience a powerful move of God in this service filled with Spirit-led worship, baptisms, and communion as Faith Chapel closes the Daniel Fast and reflects on what it means to truly follow Jesus. Pastor Josiah Elias preaches “Built in the Shadows,” reminding us that in the Kingdom of God, success isn't measured by what we have but by Who we follow. Through 1 Corinthians and Matthew 19, we learn that surrender, not possession, brings freedom—that it's not about the what but the Who. Joined by Pastors Ashley and Greg Elias, this message calls us to release what holds us back, draw closer to Jesus, and live for His glory. Watch now and be encouraged to seek the Kingdom first and let Jesus be Lord over every part of your life.

Pain, frustration, and discouragement are unavoidable realities of life and work. From tedious tasks and unmet expectations to seasons of deep grief, loss, and hardship—pain has a way of shaping how we see ourselves, our work, and even God. In this message, Josiah Kish invites us to wrestle honestly with pain through the lens of Scripture. Drawing from Lamentations 3, written by the prophet Jeremiah in the aftermath of profound loss, we are reminded that pain is not a sign of God's absence—but often the very place where God meets us most deeply. Jeremiah does not minimize suffering. He names it fully—describing it as wormwood and poison. Yet, remarkably, in the midst of devastation, he declares hope. Why? Because hope is not rooted in circumstances, but in the unchanging character of God—His steadfast love, His mercies that are new every morning, and His enduring faithfulness. This message explores three powerful truths: Pain is the grim reality of a broken world Hope in pain flows from trusting God's character Pain carries an invitation—to wait on God, to be formed, and to draw closer to Him Ultimately, this sermon points us to the Gospel, where we see pain fully embodied in Christ Himself. Jesus enters our suffering, bears it on the cross, and transforms it into a place of redemption and hope. The Gospel empowers us not to escape pain, but to meet God within it. Whether your pain comes from work stress, disappointment, unemployment, caregiving, study, or seasons of deep personal loss, this message offers an invitation: to see pain not as the end of hope, but as the doorway through which God does His deepest work in us.

"Build" In part 4 of this sermon series, Pastor Josiah poses the question, are we building our lives as genuine offerings to God, or are we constructing cheap imitations that merely look spiritual from a distance? We're challenged to examine the markers of our own spiritual construction, and reminded  that unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain (Psalm 127:1). Join us for Thrive Church In person (more info here) or Online Sundays 2:30PM (MT) on Youtube Want to partner with Thrive Church:https://www.thrivecalgary.ca/give-online  

How can we know with certainty that Jesus Christ is the promised Messiah and long-awaited Savior of mankind? Tune into this week's message on Luke 4:14-44, as Pastor Josiah lays out the supporting evidence that demands a verdict.

James marks the gravity of favoritism comparing it with adultery and murder. Pastor Josiah challenges the listeners to evaluate our motivation in how we treat others. Is it driven by our selfish ambitions or by serving others in action to those who cannot return the favour.

Faith Chapel lifted their voices declaring, “You've never failed me yet,” a reminder that though people may fail us, the Lord never does. Joel Muñoz encouraged everyone to “give the Holy Spirit the right of way,” allowing Him to convict, guide, and transform every part of our lives. Pastor Josiah then highlighted the power of testimony, introducing David Moreno, who shared how God miraculously healed his rib—confirmed by doctors—after prayer with his family. Guest speaker David Diga Hernandez followed, teaching from 1 Corinthians 2:9-10 that the Holy Spirit reveals the deep things of God and invites us into continual fellowship with Him. Using an illustration of body, soul, and spirit, David explained that our true identity is found in the spirit, and we are called not to strive for growth but to align our whole being with who we already are in Christ. Instead of performing or exhausting ourselves in ministry, we are to surrender, trust, and obey—letting the Spirit's living water flow through us so that we can truly be the salt and light of the world.

"BUILD" In part three of this series, Pastor Josiah focuses on the account of blind Bartimaeus to illustrate how we must throw off false identities rooted in past hurts, failures, and limitations in order to build what God has called us to create. The core truth is that our identity is not found in our past, our failures, or our wounds, but in being the righteousness of God and children of God through Christ. Join us for Thrive Church In person (more info here) or Online Sundays 2:30PM (MT) on Youtube Want to partner with Thrive Church:https://www.thrivecalgary.ca/give-online  

When God appeared to Abram at ninety-nine years old, He revealed Himself as El Shaddai — “God Almighty” (Genesis 17:1). This was more than a name; it was a revelation of His nature. El Shaddai means the All-Sufficient One — the God who is more than enough. To a man who was old and childless, God declared that His power was not limited by human weakness. He made a covenant with Abraham, promising descendants, nations, and kings to come from him. Every time “El Shaddai” appeared again in Scripture — with Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph — it reaffirmed God's unshakable faithfulness to multiply, bless, and sustain His people beyond their ability.In the New Testament, that same power and sufficiency are revealed in Jesus Christ. As the True Vine (John 15:1), He prunes and grows His people to bear fruit. Through His authority (Matthew 28:18–20), the Church carries on the mission of El Shaddai — to multiply disciples across nations. Paul reminds us in Ephesians 4:11–13 that maturity in Christ comes when we are equipped and unified, fully dependent on His strength. Just as newborns crave pure spiritual milk (1 Peter 2:2–3), we must remain nourished by His Word to grow in the fullness of His covenant.Finally, in Revelation 1, John encounters the risen Christ — radiant, powerful, and alive forevermore. The same voice that spoke to Abraham now declares, “I am the First and the Last.” El Shaddai has not changed. He still keeps His promises, still multiplies His people, and still holds all authority in heaven and on earth. Our response, like Abraham's, is to fall before Him in worship, walk blamelessly, and trust that the Almighty is more than enough for every generation.

The service began with a powerful prayer from Pastor Tim, “We want You! Saturate this room with Your presence,” and the Lord answered—His presence filled the room so strongly that worship flowed beyond schedule, as the church chose His timeline over theirs. Pastor Josiah emphasized “His presence above everything” and encouraged alignment with God's will, reminding the church of previous teachings about going deep and wide, being productive according to God's plan, and avoiding complacency. Returning to the Red Letter series, Pastor Josiah preached “Braided” from Luke 18:1–8, where Jesus taught to “always pray and never give up.” He compared the widow's persistence before an unjust judge to our faith before a just God, urging believers to press in with prayer, endurance, and faith. He showed how Jesus braided these three truths together—always praying, never giving up, and anchoring faith in persistence. Just as Elijah's servant saw the cloud only after seven looks and the blind woman received healing after her eighth prayer, Pastor Josiah reminded everyone that faith often requires perseverance. The message concluded with a charge: to stay braided—pray continually, never give up, and anchor into faith that not only acknowledges reality but transforms it—becoming salt and light in a challenging world.

"Build" In part two of this series, Pastor Josiah explains the critical importance of building our lives in partnership with God rather than simply managing daily responsibilities. The central message is that believers should not merely survive life but flourish according to God's elevated plans. The sermon distinguishes between working "in" our lives versus working "on" our lives with God's vision in mind. Join us for Thrive Church In person (more info here) or Online Sundays 2:30PM (MT) on Youtube Want to partner with Thrive Church:https://www.thrivecalgary.ca/give-online 

Faith Chapel began 2026 with joyful expectation—declaring that this will be an amazing year filled with God's favor! The message centered on knowing the Name of the Lord and the power that comes with it. From Isaiah 52:6 to Psalm 9:10 and 91:14, we were reminded that those who trust in His Name are protected and never forsaken. Pastor Josiah highlighted how, from Genesis to Exodus, God revealed Himself progressively—from Creator to I AM WHO I AM—the eternal, self-existent One who rescues, provides, and leads His people. In John 17:6, Jesus declared that He manifested the Father's Name to His followers, showing that knowing His Name means knowing His heart. As we step into 2026, we're invited to trust, seek, and love the Lord who makes Himself known to those who call upon His Name.

This powerful message invites us into a transformative 21-day journey of fasting that goes far beyond dietary restrictions. Drawing from Acts 2:42-47, we discover ten essential tools the early church used to cultivate deep spiritual vitality: studying God's Word, fellowshipping together, sharing meals in community, taking communion, praying consistently, focusing on God with awe, ministering to one another, serving sacrificially, worshiping collectively, and enjoying the journey with joy. The heart of biblical fasting isn't about punishing ourselves or manipulating God, but rather silencing the distracting groans of our flesh to better engage our spirit. Through Isaiah 58, we're reminded that God desires authentic transformation over religious performance. He wants us to free the oppressed, feed the hungry, and live justly, not merely go through spiritual motions. The challenge before us is profound: rather than excelling for just three weeks only to return to old patterns, we're called to use this season as a launchpad for permanent lifestyle changes. This isn't about knocking it out of the park temporarily, but about becoming the men and women of God we're called to be forever. As we fast, we're invited to ask what God wants to bring us into personally and corporately, preparing our hearts for the deeper things He has in store

"Build" In part one of this series, Pastor Josiah challenges believersto examine what they are building with their lives in 2026. Using King Solomon's life as a cautionary tale, the message contrasts building a "palace" (focused on self-rule, personal ambitions, and individual desires) with building a "temple" (living as a living sacrifice wholly devoted to God). The core message emphasizes that as we delight in the Lord and seek Him first, He adds all other blessings to our lives, bringing true fulfillment, provision, and purpose.Join us for Thrive Church In person (more info here) or Online Sundays 2:30PM (MT) on Youtube Want to partner with Thrive Church:https://www.thrivecalgary.ca/give-online  

Sunday's service began with powerful worship, heartfelt baptisms, and meaningful communion, filled with phrases that lingered—“Oh how we love You,” “When faith meets the water,” and “Jesus says it and does it.” Pastor Josiah introduced the guest speaker, his father and evangelist George Elias, who shared photos of Josiah's baptism and ordination while expressing gratitude for how Josiah and Ashley lovingly shepherd Faith Chapel. George spoke on steadfastness from Psalm 57:7, reminding us to stay firm and balanced in our walk with the Lord despite the enemy's distractions. He urged believers to nurture their God-given dreams and shared “6 Keys to Living Steadfast in 2026”: strengthening marriage and family, walking in calling and purpose, cultivating prayer and intimacy, trusting God through life's circumstances, standing firm against sin, and living a lifestyle of soul-winning. With Scripture woven throughout, George encouraged the church to finish well, live faithfully, and let our lives reflect Jesus' love to a world in need.

Discover the true meaning of "peace on earth" in this powerful Christmas sermon from Luke 2. Pastor Josiah explains why the peace the angels announced isn't about a calm life or perfect circumstances — it's a verdict from God, secured by the cross, and given through grace, not performance.In this Advent message on the shepherds, we explore:-Peace is a verdict, not a feeling (Romans 5:1)-Peace is given through God's favor, not our performance (Luke 2:14)-Peace is purchased by the blood of Jesus, not the manger (Colossians 1:20)If you're searching for lasting peace this Christmas season, this message will point you to the Prince of Peace.

Pastor Josiah asked, “What do you bring to the King?” and answered, “A gift of honor simply,” reminding us that Jesus is worthy of it all. At FC, where the mission is to culture like Christ and the vision is Jesus, we reflected on the story of the ten lepers in Luke 17. These men lived isolated in “no man's land,” yet when they cried out, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us,” their faith and obedience led to healing as they went to show themselves to the priests. Like them, we are called to hear, believe, and do—trusting God to meet us in motion even when we do not yet see the miracle. Pastor Josiah also encouraged us to “keep telling your stories,” for testimonies carry the spirit of prophecy (Revelation 19:10) and reveal God's power to transform lives. Just as the lepers likely heard of Jesus through someone else's story, our testimonies can inspire faith in others. We were reminded that God moves in new ways—Jesus healed the blind differently each time—so we must release preconceived notions and stay open to His direction. Like the one thankful leper who returned to glorify God and received not just healing but wholeness, may we be people who move in faith, give thanks with honor, and keep our eyes on Jesus, the Way, the Truth, and the Life.

Following Christ isn't about pretending everything is okay; it's about learning to trust God's promises even when we can't see what He is doing. In his message, “The Dawn of God's Faithfulness,” Pastor Josiah walks us through Luke 1:39–80 and shows how God breaks 400 years of silence with the births of John the Baptist and Jesus. We watch Mary and Zechariah move from confusion and waiting to Spirit-filled praise as they realize God is fulfilling the promises He made to Abraham and David. Along the way, we connect their story to ours: what it feels like when life is barren, when prayers seem unanswered, when God feels distant. Because God has already kept His biggest promise in Jesus, we can trust Him in the darkest moments of our lives and worship Him even when life seems hopeless.

This message centered on Jesus as Emanuel—“God with us”—reminding us that He will never leave nor forsake us (Hebrews 13:5), a truth echoed through worship that lifted our hearts to the Lord. Though we may find ourselves in seasons of spiritual battle, Scripture assures us that victory belongs to the Lord (Proverbs 21:31), calling us to rest in Him rather than strive. Pastor Josiah walked us through John 11 and the story of Lazarus, highlighting faith beyond deadlines, when human hope seems exhausted but God still has the final word. Through Martha and Mary, we saw both active faith and abiding faith, culminating in Jesus' powerful declaration, “I am the resurrection and the life,” one of His five “I Am” statements that demand not only belief but lived trust every day of the week. Even in grief and confusion, Mary ran to Jesus, and Jesus met her pain with compassion—“Jesus wept”—revealing a Savior who understands our suffering and remains faithful. As the stone was rolled away despite objections and decay, we were reminded that revival and growth may come with discomfort, yet thanksgiving prepares the way for miracles. Jesus' command, “Lazarus, come out,” demonstrated that He is the Answer who calls life out of death and restoration out of despair. The paramount point remains: don't get lost in the questions when you can be found in the Answer—Jesus, who loves us, restores us, sits with us in our pain, and is more than enough in every circumstance.

This powerful message takes us deep into Luke 16, where Jesus shares the sobering account of the rich man and Lazarus—a story that forces us to confront the eternal consequences of how we live today. What makes this teaching particularly striking is that it's the only parable where Jesus names specific individuals, suggesting this may be more than just a story—it could be an actual account of eternal realities. We're challenged to examine our stewardship not just of money, but of our entire lives. The rich man had everything he wanted in his earthly existence, living in luxury while Lazarus suffered at his gate. Yet after death, their positions were eternally reversed. This isn't primarily about wealth versus poverty, but about the heart condition that our choices reveal. Abraham's bosom represents the place where the faithful rested before Christ's ultimate sacrifice, while Hades held those separated from God. The chasm between them couldn't be crossed—a haunting reminder that our eternal destiny is determined by decisions we make in this life. What's most convicting is the rich man's realization that even someone rising from the dead wouldn't convince his brothers to change. We have everything we need right now—Scripture, the Holy Spirit, and the testimony of Christ's resurrection—to make the choice that matters most. This message isn't meant to motivate us through fear of hell, but to awaken us to the beauty of falling in love with Jesus and living a life that honors Him while we still have breath in our lungs.

The young boy who offered his five loaves and two fish reminds us that when we give Jesus what we have, He multiplies it beyond measure. Pastor Josiah shared how our small acts of generosity allow us to “write ourselves into the story.” Continuing FC's mission to culture like Christ and vision of Jesus, this week's message—“The Twin”—focused on Thomas, who moved from doubt to deep faith. From John 11, we saw that Lazarus's story “would not end in death” but in God's glory, reminding us that even when we're in the middle of struggle, the story is not over. Jesus performs miracles not to impress but to reveal His love and character. Through Thomas, we learned that pain and disappointment can cloud our faith, but Jesus invites us, like Thomas, to look up, believe, and be transformed. Pastor Josiah urged us, “Don't let pain suffocate your faith.” Instead, lift your eyes to the Savior—He is still mending hearts, restoring hope, and bringing light into our darkest places.

The young boy who offered his five loaves and two fish reminds us that when we give Jesus what we have, He multiplies it beyond measure. Pastor Josiah shared how our small acts of generosity allow us to “write ourselves into the story.” Continuing FC's mission to culture like Christ and vision of Jesus, this week's message—“The Twin”—focused on Thomas, who moved from doubt to deep faith. From John 11, we saw that Lazarus's story “would not end in death” but in God's glory, reminding us that even when we're in the middle of struggle, the story is not over. Jesus performs miracles not to impress but to reveal His love and character. Through Thomas, we learned that pain and disappointment can cloud our faith, but Jesus invites us, like Thomas, to look up, believe, and be transformed. Pastor Josiah urged us, “Don't let pain suffocate your faith.” Instead, lift your eyes to the Savior—He is still mending hearts, restoring hope, and bringing light into our darkest places.

Joel Munoz encouraged us with Matthew 7:24 and Hebrews 12:28–29, reminding us to stand on the Rock and be thankful for the unshakable kingdom we've received. Pastor Josiah's message, “In God We Trust,” pointed us back to the heart behind our national motto and to whom our trust truly belongs. From Luke 16, Jesus' parable of the shrewd manager illustrated how our handling of worldly possessions reveals the condition of our hearts. Pastor Josiah reminded us that tests from God are not traps but opportunities for revelation and growth—He sees everything and still loves us. We must choose who our master will be, for no one can serve both God and money. Our money can serve God, but God will never serve money. True trust in Him brings freedom, blessing, and an eternal perspective. When we prioritize Jesus above all, we become salt and light in a world that desperately needs His truth and grace.

Pastor Josiah reminded us that our mission is to culture like Christ and our vision is Jesus. Last week's message, “No Excuses,” called us to align our hearts and minds with the Lord, while this week's sermon, “Live on Mission,” built on that as our Africa team returned. Centered on Luke 14–15, Pastor Josiah challenged us to put Jesus first, even above family and comfort, teaching that denying ourselves is truly honoring Him. The Africa team shared how saying “yes” to God transformed their lives and deepened their faith through miracles, healing, and boldness. From delays to divine encounters, they witnessed God's abundant life (John 10:10) and saw how He moves both in Africa and here at home. As Pastor Josiah said, whether across the street or across the world, we are called to live on mission—to say “yes” to Jesus and be salt and light in a dark world.

We began by declaring the powerful names of God—Elohim, Adonai, Rapha, Nissi, Shaddai—proclaiming that the name of the Lord is our strong tower and hiding place. What a beautiful way to worship the Creator who calls us His own, as Joel Munoz reminded us through Isaiah 43: “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.” Pastor Josiah continued the theme of being on mission, reminding us that whether across the street or around the world, we are called to reach the lost. In Luke 15, Jesus shared how the shepherd leaves the ninety-nine to find the one lost sheep, revealing God's heart for every person who has wandered away. Just as God sought Adam and Eve in the garden, He seeks us still. We were lost, but He found us. Pastor Josiah encouraged us to be equipped, to stand firm, and to help others find Jesus—because our walk with Him is not a sprint, but a lifelong journey of faith and endurance.

We began by declaring the powerful names of God—Elohim, Adonai, Rapha, Nissi, Shaddai—proclaiming that the name of the Lord is our strong tower and hiding place. What a beautiful way to worship the Creator who calls us His own, as Joel Munoz reminded us through Isaiah 43: “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.” Pastor Josiah continued the theme of being on mission, reminding us that whether across the street or around the world, we are called to reach the lost. In Luke 15, Jesus shared how the shepherd leaves the ninety-nine to find the one lost sheep, revealing God's heart for every person who has wandered away. Just as God sought Adam and Eve in the garden, He seeks us still. We were lost, but He found us. Pastor Josiah encouraged us to be equipped, to stand firm, and to help others find Jesus—because our walk with Him is not a sprint, but a lifelong journey of faith and endurance.

When accusations or misunderstandings come against your faith, what does it look like to give a Christ-centered defense rather than a self-defensive reaction? In his sermon: “Clear Eyes, Full Hearts, Can't Lose!” centered on Acts 24:1 – 25:12, Pastor Josiah walks us into the Roman courtroom of Caesarea, where the apostle Paul stands accused before Governor Felix. Surrounded by power, politics, and hostility, Paul defends himself not with manipulation but with conviction—his worship is to the Lord, his hope is anchored in the resurrection, and his conscience is clear before God and man. This passage reveals that the gospel itself, not merely Paul, is on trial—and that even in chains, God's mission is unstoppable.As Christ's chosen people, we are called to live with integrity and to boldly defend His truth before all. When our eyes are fixed on Christ and our hearts are full of love for Him, we truly can't lose—because even through persecution and hardship, the gospel advances, God's purposes prevail, and His truth cannot be silenced.

Don't get stuck. Making the shift to the new and beautiful thing the Lord is doing is so vital. John the Baptist was caught between two convenants and had a hard time transitioning " out of the kitchen" and onto the "dinner table" so to speak. If you're constantly cooking and never transition into time to eat, you'll be missing the whole reason you were preparing to begin with. Jesus was presenting a new wineskin and everybody needed to get their wineskin ready for the transition to receive the new wine. If you didn't, you'd miss out entirely on the new thing the Lord is doing. That'd be a loss nobody should endure if they can help it. Furthermore, Jesus had such a heart for the religious leaders to make the transition, which is why he kept sharing meals with them even though they were trying to trap Him. What an amazing example for us to follow.

Jesus teaches a parable of people invited to a banquet, through they've agreed to come, excuses begin to flow once the banquet is ready.Pastor Josiah takes us into an intrinsic look at the reasons behind their excuses and how it applies to us today. This is not a time for excuses. If we look for them, we'll find them! But if we look and stay committed, we'll never be disappointed we made that decision!

John Mark isn't a widely known biblical character however without him, we wouldn't have the Gospel of Mark! He made a profound impact on our world. Pastor Josiah shares 7 contributing factors that led to how John Mark went from a prayer house, to the mission field, to a Gospel writer. Covering the people he labored alongside - their successes and their opportunities to grow.

After covering John the Baptist, Pastor Josiah takes us into John the Beloved. He wasn't always perfect, but there was something about his zeal for the Lord that afforded him favor with Jesus. Jesus was cultivating something in John because of his bold yes to follow the Lord. Unlike John the Baptist, John the Beloved was able to make a transition from the ministry of preparation to intimacy. We explore benefits it brought to him as an individual and furthermore what the Lord did through him because of this powerful choice he made.

Friend of Sinners | Week 3 | Better Than I Planned | Pastor Josiah Thomas | Life Center Tacoma Luke 15:1-3, 11-24 (CSB) HIS PLAN is better than your plan Luke 15:12 (CSB) Luke 15:14 (CSB) Isaiah 55:8-9 (CSB) Luke 15:19 (CSB) HIS LOVE doesn't cost you anything, but it cost Him everything Luke 15:20-21 (CSB) "The father, in his house, clearly represents God. The best understanding of the text is to see that when the father leaves the house and takes upon himself a humiliating posture on the road, he becomes a symbol of God incarnate. He does not wait for the son to come to him but rather at a GREAT COST goes down and out to find and resurrect the one who is lost and dead." - Kenneth Bailey HIS RESTORATION isn't earned, it's freely given Luke 15:22-24 (CSB)

We're wired to celebrate what's good—but we don't agree on what “good” is. Pastor Josiah explores Jesus' worldview-shifting claim that God alone is good (Matt. 19:16–22) and shows how that truth reframes evil, sin, and even hell. With a vivid “spring and river” picture, you'll see why swimming toward the Source changes your life, how the Good Samaritan still captures our hearts, and why the invitation of Jesus is to come empty-handed and follow. Key Scriptures: Galatians 5:22–23; Matthew 19:16–22; James 1:17; Romans 2:4 Big Idea: Goodness happens in us when we respond to God's call out of ourselves and into Him—the Source of all good. If you prayed with Dom or want to talk more about following Jesus, email: jkish@grace.org

What if following Christ led you into suffering instead of comfort — would you still obey? In “Chained in Obedience,” Pastor Josiah unpacks Paul's costly journey to Jerusalem in Acts 21:15–36 — a story that reminds us that following Christ faithfully does not guarantee comfort, favor, or safety. Paul's obedience led him into chains, not away from them. Yet through those chains, God advanced the gospel and displayed His sovereignty. Paul's example calls believers to embrace the truth that faithful obedience often includes suffering, and that despite persecution God's plan still succeeds! The same Lord who ruled over Paul's prison cell reigns over every trial we face today, turning our suffering into a testimony of His grace and power.

Does God really hear the cries of those who are cheated, wronged, or overlooked? In his message centered on James 5:1–6, Pastor Josiah shares a powerful warning from James: selfish hoarding and dishonest gain may look like success in the world's eyes, but before God they will testify against us. Earthly riches corrode, unjust dealings oppress the vulnerable, and self-indulgence leads to judgment. Yet in Christ, there is an eternal treasure that moth and rust cannot destroy. For the oppressor, God's word declares judgment. For the oppressed, we can be comforted – God hears your cries and will bring the unrighteous to justice. And for all who believe, the gospel gives hope: true riches are found in Christ alone.

What fears or ambitions keep you from fully submitting your life to God's will? In his sermon, “Stop Playing God,” Pastor Josiah shows us how James 4:11-17 calls us to humble ourselves in full submission before God. As Christians we need to stop criticizing our brothers and sisters, stop pretending we control tomorrow, and start entrusting every part of our lives to the Lord's will. Our lives are but a vapor, and at the end of the day, only what is done in Christ will last. Because God alone is the final authority, we must quit playing God and joyfully submit our lives to Him.

Why do our desires so often leave us empty, even when they're fulfilled? In this week's message centered on James 4:1–10, Pastor Josiah unpacks both the problem and the promise regarding the difficulties we face in life. Our passions and worldly pursuits leave us restless, divided, and far from God. Yet God does not abandon us—but gives grace to the humble. In Christ, the true Bridegroom, we are invited to lay down our pride, resist the lies of the enemy, and draw near to the God who draws near to us. This passage is not just a warning but an invitation: to forsake the emptiness of the world and discover the joy of full devotion to Christ. What would it look like for you to go “all in” with Christ today?

Join me on this week's show for an interview with Pastor Josiah Elias, the lead pastor of Faith Chapel in Spring Valley, California. Pastor Josiah and his wife Ashley are devoted to discipleship. They want to see believers develop into wholehearted followers of Jesus, and they understand that discipleship begins in the home, in the early years of our children's walk with the Lord. They recognize the weighty mandate that the local church carries to equip and encourage parents in discipling their kids, and that as believers, we can't just look the other way when an entire generation is steeped in anxiety, depression, and atheism. That's why Faith Chapel is going all in on education. Learn more about the mission and the inspiration on today's show. K to 12 Rescue Mission: https://www.academicrescuemission.com Christian Community College: https://www.veritascc.us CVCU degree programs: https://www.cvcu.us Book Dr. Lisa to speak: https://www.DrLisaDunne.com @DrLisaDunne