Podcasts about pastor josiah

The sermon "Red Letters: Washing" by Pastor Josiah Elias (0:54:03-1:59:13) centers on the profound act of Jesus washing his disciples' feet as a model of servant leadership. Drawing from Luke 22, the message highlights the context of the Passover and the divine orchestration of the Upper Room, where Jesus demonstrated that true authority in the kingdom is defined by serving others. Pastor Josiah emphasizes that this act was a "living parable," illustrating the need for spiritual cleansing and setting a standard for Christlike service among believers. Ultimately, the sermon connects this humble act to the far greater cleansing power of the Cross and invites the congregation to embrace a lifestyle of humility, service, and total surrender to the Gospel.

Why does more money never actually feel like enough? You get the raise, the house, the promotion, the number in the account, and then the goalpost quietly moves again. Pastor Josiah takes on that exhausting cycle head on, using one of Jesus's sharpest parables. And the man Jesus calls a fool in it looks, on paper, like someone we would celebrate.This sermon continues an Alliance Church teaching series on money and generosity. Pastor Josiah opens with what hikers call the false summit. That moment on a climb when you put your head down, push hard for the peak you can finally see, only to discover another ridge behind it. That is how most of us live financially and emotionally. If I could just get there. And then there moves.Then he takes the church to Luke 12:13 through 21. Someone in the crowd interrupts Jesus to referee a family inheritance fight. Instead of settling it, Jesus goes underneath the argument and names three things about the man in the parable that most Christians never see in themselves.One. Greed. More never feels like enough. Ecclesiastes 5:10 says it plainly. Those who love money will never have enough. Greed is not about how much is in your bank account. It is about what has your heart. The antidote is gratitude.Two. Selfishness. Blessings were never meant to stop with you. Pastor Josiah uses a genius illustration from a plumbing disaster in his first home. A concrete pad was pressing down on the pipe, blocking the flow, causing dirty water to back up into his tub. When God's blessing stops with you, the same thing happens spiritually. God moves resources through us, not just to us. 1 Timothy 6:17 and 18 makes it clear.Three. Foolishness. Full barns can still belong to an empty soul. The rich man in the parable prepares for retirement, plans, saves, expands, and then God says, tonight your life is required of you. Then who gets it? Not because he was wealthy. Because he chased what he could not keep while ignoring what he could not lose.He closes with the story of Ali Hafed and the diamond mines of Golconda. A man who sold his content, prosperous farm to chase diamonds elsewhere, died broke and hopeless in Barcelona, while the man who bought his land found the biggest diamond mine in history sitting right in the creek on that same property. The treasure Ali was looking for was already at home.Pastor Josiah lands it in the gospel. The richest thing you can have is a relationship with God, and it is not hidden. Jesus paid the way to that relationship on a cross. Do not spend your life chasing what you cannot keep while neglecting what you cannot lose.

In this powerful message from Matthew 25, “What's in Your Hands?”, we are challenged to examine what we are doing with everything God has entrusted to us. Jesus' parable of the talents reveals that God doesn't need us, but He chooses to entrust us with gifts, opportunities, resources, influence, and responsibilities for His Kingdom. The question isn't simply what we have been given, but what are we doing with what God has given us? Pastor Josiah Elias unpacks the difference between faithful stewardship and fearful inactivity, showing how our view of God directly influences the way we live, serve, and respond to His calling. The servant who buried what was entrusted to him wasn't merely inactive—his distorted perception of his master produced fear, paralysis, and ultimately disobedience. In the Kingdom of God, movement in the wrong direction is not progress, and true increase is ultimately an increase of Jesus in our lives. This message invites us to stop comparing what we have been given, stop burying what God has placed in our hands, and faithfully steward what belongs to Him. The question is simple but searching: What am I doing with what God has entrusted to me right now?

In this powerful Midweek Encounter message from Luke 5, we journey with Peter into one of his defining encounters with Jesus on the Sea of Galilee. After working all night and catching nothing, Peter is tired, frustrated, and ready to return to what he knows—but Jesus steps into his boat and asks him to go deeper. What follows is a powerful picture of what happens when we trust the Word of Jesus even when our experience tells us otherwise. Peter's simple response, “But if you say so, I'll let the nets down again,” becomes the doorway to an overwhelming miracle and a revelation of who Jesus truly is. Yet the greatest miracle wasn't the overflowing nets—it was what happened in Peter's heart when he encountered the holiness and power of Christ. Jesus transformed Peter's perspective, fear, and purpose, calling him from catching fish to fishing for people. This message challenges us to sharpen our spiritual lives, move beyond what seems reasonable, trust God with the deep things we cannot yet see, and recognize that sometimes Jesus asks us to go deeper precisely when we feel like we have nothing left. When we encounter Jesus, everything changes—and like Peter, we are invited to leave everything behind and follow Him.

In this sobering and powerful message from Matthew 25, we are reminded that one day the King will return, and every life will be brought before Him. Jesus describes the moment when He will separate the sheep from the goats, revealing that what we value ultimately shapes how we live. Pastor Josiah Elias challenges us to look beyond religious appearance and examine the reality of our faith through the way we love, serve, and respond to the people God places directly in front of us. When the righteous ask, “When did we see You?” Jesus reveals that every act of compassion toward the hungry, thirsty, stranger, sick, or imprisoned was an act of love toward Him. This message reminds us that Jesus is often hidden in the person standing right in front of you, and the question we must ultimately answer is, “What did I do with the person standing in front of me?” As we look toward the return of Christ and the eternal reality of His Kingdom, this sermon calls us to live with compassion, generosity, humility, and genuine faith—not merely a religious appearance, but a transformed Kingdom reality. When the King returns, all will be revealed.

In this sobering message, we are confronted with the warning Jesus gave His disciples before His crucifixion and the tragic example of Judas Iscariot. Through Luke 22 and Matthew 26, this sermon explores how spiritual compromise can begin subtly, how persecution, division, and deception can test our faith, and why simply being close to Jesus does not guarantee a surrendered heart. Judas walked with Jesus, witnessed His miracles, heard His teaching, and was numbered among the twelve—yet his heart slowly drifted toward betrayal. This message challenges us to examine whether we are truly following Christ or merely close enough to look like disciples. We are reminded to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, remain spiritually discerning, guard against compromise, and never allow proximity to replace genuine surrender. For many, betraying Jesus doesn't happen in public—it happens in private.

"Foolproof Your Life" In part two of this series, Pastor Josiah explores what it means to grow in wisdom as followers of Jesus. Using the account of the young Jesus in the temple as a framework, Pastor Josiah demonstrates that wisdom is not something people are simply born with, but something that must be intentionally cultivated. 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  

In our fourth week in the series Pastor Josiah looks at the third commandment, "do not take the Lord's name in vain. As usual, there is more to this command that the classic understanding we often think it means. 

Pastor Josiah continues our study through the book of James in our "Hands" sermon series with a message titled, “What to Do When You Don't Know What to Do.”

"Foolproof Your Life" In part one of this series, Pastor Josiah unpacks what it truly means to walk wisely in a foolish world (Ephesians 5:15–17). We discover the practical differences between a wise life built on God's truth and a foolish life built on self-reliance, and learn how to actively seek wisdom like hidden treasure. It's time to move beyond simple behavior modification and step into heart transformation. 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  

This was our second week of our 10 commandment series where we dive deeper into the 10 commandments. This week Pastor Josiah talked about the second commandment (No other Gods), where he dives deeper into giving your full allegiance to Yahweh.

When circumstances look dry on the surface, it is easy to wonder if God's provision has run out—but what He promised is still right beneath the surface. In Genesis 26, when Isaac prospered, the Philistines tried to cut off his future by throwing dirt into his father Abraham's wells. Instead of giving up or walking away, Isaac chose to re-dig.Opposition does not mean you are out of God's plan; often, it just means you are standing on ground worth fighting for.

Why does the Bible sometimes feel flat when you read it? You are reading the right words, but the weight of those words is not landing. Pastor Josiah says almost every Christian is missing one thing when they open Scripture, and it is not a seminary degree.This sermon continues an August teaching series at Alliance Church on how to read the Bible well. Pastor Josiah opens with an honest story about learning that saying fine to his wife is not a sufficient answer. She wants context. And that turns out to be exactly what most of us are missing when we open the Bible. God did not give us a collection of disconnected inspirational quotes. He gave us Scripture, real books written by real people living in real places, speaking into real cultures. Sometimes we read the right words and still miss the weight of them because we do not understand the world around them.Pastor Josiah anchors this in Nehemiah 8:8, where Ezra reads the law, explains the meaning, and helps the people understand. A simple rhythm shows up. Read it, understand it in its original context, then respond to it.Then Pastor Josiah shows what historical and cultural context actually does with two examples.First. John 13, when Jesus washes the disciples' feet. Every home in first century Judea had a strict social order. The lesser served the greater. When Jesus, the highest person in the room, wraps a towel around his waist and kneels, the entire social order gets flipped upside down. That is why Peter freaks out. Once you feel the culture, you feel the weight.Second. Luke 2, the Christmas story. Most people rush to the manger. He goes back one verse to Caesar Augustus, a ruler Rome literally called savior, whose birth was celebrated as good news, whose reign was associated with peace. Then Luke tells you about a different birth. Not in a palace. In a manger. And angels start announcing good news, a Savior, peace on earth. Luke is asking the whole Roman world one question. Which one is really Lord?He then hands the room practical tools. A study Bible. Commentaries. Blue Letter Bible for looking up original languages. But he is careful to say the tool is never the treasure. The Bible is the treasure. And he lands with the Bereans in Acts 17, who listened eagerly to Paul but searched the Scriptures day after day to test what he taught. If your tradition disagrees with Scripture, Scripture wins. If your favorite pastor disagrees with Scripture, Scripture wins. Every voice bows to God's word.He closes with the story of Ali Hafed and the diamond mine of Golconda. Ali sold his farm searching the world for diamonds, only to die broke, while the buyer of his land found the greatest diamond mine in history right there in his own backyard. The treasure you are looking for is already in the book on your shelf. Open it.

What does it mean to truly have a heart that is open and receptive to God? This message takes us on a deeply personal journey through Psalm 51:10-12, where David cries out to God to create in him a clean heart and restore the joy of his salvation. We are challenged to ask ourselves a sobering question: is what breaks God's heart actually breaking our hearts?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  

This was our sixth week of our summer series where we dive deeper into The Parables of Jesus. This week Pastor Josiah spoke about The Parable if The Old Wineskins. The Old life is gone; a new life has begun!

What would it look like to see revival take place in the next generation? In this episode, Jordan Lunderville joins Pastor Josiah Elias for a powerful conversation about reaching young people with the Gospel, believing for revival, and creating space for the next generation to encounter Jesus. They also discuss the importance of getting Bibles into schools and equipping students with access to the Word of God. This conversation will challenge you to believe that God is moving in the next generation and inspire you to play a part in what He's doing. Tune in — revival isn't just coming; it can start with us.

In this urgent and prophetic message, “The Ready Discerning Church,” Pastor Josiah Elias takes us through Matthew 24 and Scripture's warnings concerning deception, the return of Christ, and the responsibility of the Church to remain spiritually awake and discerning. Jesus warned that false messiahs and false prophets would arise with convincing signs and wonders, making discernment essential for the people of God. Pastor Josiah traces the biblical story of God's dwelling place—from the Tabernacle and the Temple to Jesus Christ, the Church, and ultimately eternity—revealing that under the New Covenant, we are now the temple of the Holy Spirit and living stones being built together as God's house. Through the finished work of Jesus, one sacrifice was made once and for all, and now the Church is called to live holy, alert, and ready. Jesus is coming again—not secretly, not ambiguously, but with power and great glory, and every eye will see Him. The question is not if He is coming, but are we ready? This message is a call to wake up, reject deception, cultivate biblical discernment, and examine our hearts with one sobering question: “Am I ready?”

"Rebuild" In part five of this series, Pastor Josiah poses the question: What does it actually take to build something that lasts? Whether we are talking about a marriage, a career, a business, or our walk with God, the answer might be simpler than we expect -- and more demanding than we would like. Wherever we find ourselves lacking endurance right now, this message invites us to look up -- because the vision that comes from looking to Jesus is exactly what will carry us through. 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  

This special episode is unlike a typical sermon—it's an intimate, unscripted Q&A with Pastor Josiah Elias, where no topic was off limits. Members of the congregation had the opportunity to ask anything about ministry, leadership, spiritual growth, hearing God's voice, navigating life's challenges, and walking faithfully with Jesus. With no prepared notes or rehearsed responses, Pastor Josiah answered each question from the heart, offering honest, biblical, and Spirit-led wisdom in the moment. This genuine conversation provides a rare glimpse into the heart of a pastor who desires to see people know Christ more deeply and live with unwavering faith. Whether you're seeking practical guidance, spiritual encouragement, or simply want to grow in your relationship with God, this candid discussion is filled with authentic insight, personal experiences, and timeless biblical truth that will challenge and strengthen your walk with the Lord.

What did Jesus mean when He said, "Don't be alarmed"?In this powerful message from Matthew 24, Pastor Josiah Elias walks through Jesus' teaching about the destruction of the Temple, the signs of the end of the age, and how believers are called to respond when the world seems to be falling apart.From Solomon's Temple to Herod's Temple, and ultimately to Jesus Himself and the Church as God's dwelling place, Scripture reveals God's unfolding plan throughout history. Jesus warned that wars, deception, persecution, famines, earthquakes, and false prophets would come—but He also gave His followers a clear command: **Don't freak out. Trust Me.**In this message you'll discover:* The fascinating history of the First and Second Temples* Why Jesus accurately predicted the destruction of Jerusalem in AD 70* What the "birth pains" of Matthew 24 really mean* How to recognize deception and remain grounded in truth* Why following Jesus includes both privilege and persecution* The biblical picture of salvation: we **have been saved**, **are being saved**, and **will be saved*** The hope believers have as we await Christ's return* Why the Gospel must be preached to every nationKey Takeaway:True followers of Jesus trust Him even when the world seems to be falling apart. Instead of spreading fear, we are called to bring hope, peace, and confidence in God's promises.No matter what headlines you read or what challenges you face, Jesus is still on the throne, His Word is still true, and His Kingdom is still advancing.

In his sermon, “The Language of a Dependent Church” centered on Colossians 4:2-6, Pastor Josiah shared how a healthy church does not only pray whenever there is a crisis, rather a healthy church continues steadfastly in prayer because she knows that her faithfulness, and her perseverance depends on God. As Christ's church, we must be devoted to prayer, spiritually alert, and thankful for all that God has done. A church that is truly dependent on God, is a church that is fully committed to prayer!

Is deliverance still for today? In this episode, Maria Sainz joins Pastor Josiah Elias for a powerful conversation about deliverance, spiritual freedom, and the life-changing power of God. Together, they unpack what the Bible says about spiritual warfare, breaking strongholds, and the authority believers have in Christ. Through biblical truth and personal experience, this episode offers hope for anyone longing to experience greater freedom and a deeper understanding of God's power at work today. Tune in—you'll be reminded that the same God who delivered then is still delivering today.

Who is Jehovah Shaphat?Throughout Scripture, God reveals Himself as Jehovah Shaphat—The LORD, our Judge. His judgments are never corrupt, biased, or unjust. He judges with perfect righteousness, truth, mercy, and holiness. In a world where opinions constantly change and people are quick to condemn, God's judgment remains eternal and perfectly just.In this powerful message, we journey from the Old Testament to the New Testament to discover that Jesus Christ has been given all authority to judge the living and the dead. More importantly, we learn how believers are called to respond—not by living in fear, but in humility, repentance, and obedience.This sermon explores what it means to stand before the judgment seat of Christ, why every person will give an account of their life, and how the gospel transforms us from people who judge others harshly into people who restore others with grace. As followers of Jesus, we are called to remove the log from our own eye before addressing the speck in another's, remembering that the same mercy we have received should flow through our lives.If you've ever wrestled with questions about God's justice, eternal judgment, accountability, or what it means to live a life that honors Christ, this message will encourage, challenge, and strengthen your faith.Key Scriptures:• Judges 10:16• Judges 11:27• Genesis 18:25• Psalm 96:13• John 5:22-30• Romans 14:10• 2 Corinthians 5:10• Revelation 20:11-15• Matthew 7:1-5• Psalm 25:9• Galatians 6:1-3If this message encouraged you, be sure to Like, Subscribe, and Share so more people can encounter the truth of God's Word.Join us every week at Faith Chapel San Diego as we pursue Jesus, cultivate a culture like Christ, and experience the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.

In one of His strongest and most sobering teachings, Jesus confronts the religious leaders of His day—not because they lacked knowledge, but because their outward appearance hid hearts that were far from God. In Matthew 23, Jesus exposes the danger of religion without relationship, performance without purity, and outward obedience without inward transformation.This message, "Hypocrites!", unpacks the seven characteristics of hypocrisy revealed by Christ. From shutting the door of the Kingdom to others, to valuing appearance over character, to living by loopholes instead of integrity, this sermon calls every believer to examine their own heart.God isn't looking for perfect people—He's looking for surrendered people. The invitation of Jesus is to remove the mask, embrace humility, and become authentic disciples who reflect His heart.Whether you've struggled with legalism, church hurt, self-righteousness, or simply desire to grow in spiritual maturity, this message will challenge you to pursue genuine faith that transforms you from the inside out.

What is in a name?Throughout Scripture, God reveals that His name is far more than a title—it reveals His nature, His character, His authority, and His covenant with His people. In this powerful message, Pastor Josiah Elias unpacks the beauty, power, and supremacy of the name of Jesus, the only name by which mankind can be saved.From the prophetic promise that God's people would know His name, to the hope found in Christ, to the authority demonstrated in the book of Acts, this sermon reveals why the name of Jesus is unlike any other. It is the name that heals the sick, delivers the oppressed, casts out darkness, brings salvation, and calls every heart to repentance. As the sons of Sceva discovered, the name of Jesus is not a magical phrase to be spoken—it carries authority for those who truly know Him and belong to Him.Pastor Josiah also explores Jesus' divine identity as the great "I AM," the fullness of God in bodily form, the Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace, the Alpha and the Omega, and the only way to the Father. This message is a call to honor His holy name, trust in His saving power, and live with a passion that reflects His Kingdom.One day every knee will bow, every tongue will confess, and every nation will declare that Jesus Christ is Lord. Until that day, may His name remain the hope of the world and the center of our worship.

What does it truly mean to be all in for Jesus?In this powerful message, Pastor Josiah Elias unpacks one of the most profound acts of faith found in Scripture—the offering of the poor widow in Mark 12. While others gave out of their abundance, one unnoticed widow gave everything she had. Jesus wasn't impressed by the amount that was given; He was moved by the heart behind the gift.This sermon challenges us to examine our own hearts. Are we serving God from our surplus, or from complete surrender? Are we holding anything back, or have we entrusted every part of our lives to Him?Discover how generosity is more than financial giving—it's a reflection of wholehearted devotion. Learn why God sees both what we give and how we give, how our giving becomes an act of worship, and why a life fully surrendered to Christ always outweighs impressive outward appearances.Whether it's your time, talents, finances, or obedience, God is calling His people to move beyond convenience and into complete trust. The Kingdom is built by people who are willing to go all in.

What are you becoming by what you behold? In this episode, Pastor Franklin joins Pastor Josiah Elias for a powerful conversation on the biblical truth that we are transformed by what we continually fix our eyes on. Together, they unpack what it means to behold Jesus, grow in His likeness, and cultivate a life marked by His presence. If you've ever wondered why spiritual transformation can feel slow or how to become more like Christ, this episode will encourage you to shift your focus toward the One who changes everything. Tune in, and you may discover that what you behold is shaping who you become.

What does it really mean to be sanctified? In this episode, Pastor Josiah Elias unpacks the biblical meaning of sanctification and explores the powerful name of God, Jehovah M'Kaddesh—"The Lord Who Sanctifies." Discover how God sets His people apart, transforms them into His likeness, and calls them to live lives of holiness. Whether you're new to the faith or looking to deepen your walk with God, this episode offers practical, biblical insight into what it means to be made holy by the One who sanctifies.

In this powerful and convicting message from Matthew 23, Pastor Josiah Elias exposes the danger of hypocrisy and reveals what authentic Christlike leadership truly looks like. As Jesus confronts the Pharisees, we're reminded that God is not impressed by outward appearances, religious titles, or public recognition—He is looking for hearts marked by humility, integrity, and obedience. This sermon challenges every believer to reject performance-based religion and instead become people whose private lives match their public confession.Discover why healthy spiritual leaders are called to point people to Jesus rather than themselves, walk alongside others instead of carrying them, and reflect the character of Christ in every area of life. Through the example of Jesus—the greatest servant of all—we learn that true greatness is found not in being exalted by people, but in humbling ourselves before God. If you've ever struggled with disappointment in leadership, wrestled with religious performance, or desire to grow in genuine discipleship, this message will encourage you to pursue the humility that attracts the presence of God and transforms lives from the inside out.

Sermon Description:What does it truly mean to be holy? In this powerful message on Jehovah M'Kaddesh—"The Lord Who Sanctifies," we discover that sanctification is not something we accomplish through our own effort, but a transforming work of God's grace in the life of every believer. From the moment we surrender to Christ, God begins setting us apart for His purposes, shaping us into His image, and calling us to live differently in a world that constantly pulls us toward compromise. This sermon explores the beauty of a life consecrated to the Lord, revealing that holiness is not about religious performance but about intimate relationship, daily surrender, and the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit. As the Lord sanctifies our hearts, minds, and lives, He removes what doesn't belong, refines our character, and prepares us to reflect the holiness of Christ. Be encouraged that the God who called you is also faithful to complete the work He began in you. Jehovah M'Kaddesh is still setting His people apart, purifying His Church, and preparing a spotless Bride for the return of Jesus Christ.

There's No Such Thing as a Junior Holy Spirit is a powerful conversation with some of the younger members of our church as they share their personal encounters with the Holy Spirit. Through their stories, they remind us that God speaks, moves, and transforms lives regardless of age. This episode is a faith-building reminder that the Holy Spirit isn't limited by years. He desires a real relationship with everyone, young and old alike.

Why does your faith get weaker when your life gets better? Most of us have felt it and never said it out loud. When things fall apart, we cling to God. When things fall together, we quietly forget him. And nobody warns you about the second one.In this sermon, Pastor Josiah opens up one of the most sobering stories in the Bible, King Solomon, to teach us why starting strong is nothing like finishing faithful. Solomon started with everything you would want in a leader. God poured out wisdom on him. He built the temple. He led with peace and prosperity. Kings from other lands traveled just to hear him speak. And yet by the end of his life, the wisest man who ever lived was building shrines to false gods and drifting so far from God that the entire kingdom of Israel would split in two because of it.Pastor Josiah walks us through Deuteronomy 17:16 to 17, where God gave the future kings of Israel three specific warnings. Do not multiply horses. Do not multiply wives. Do not multiply silver and gold. Not because those things were evil, but because God knew they had the power to master the human heart. Solomon knew every one of these warnings. He wrote most of the book of Proverbs. And he violated all three (1 Kings 10 and 11).Pastor Josiah pulls three sobering truths from Solomon's story. First, God's boundaries are not restrictions of joy. They are guardrails for devotion, and whatever God puts a boundary around usually points to what has power to capture your heart. Second, a lack of fear of the Lord is the invitation for erosion. Solomon did not lack wisdom. He lacked submission to the wisdom he had. Third, starting strong is not the same as finishing faithful. Faithfulness is not proven by how you begin. It is revealed by whether you continue.And then the message lands where every Counterfeit Kings sermon lands. Solomon started strong but Jesus finished faithful. Solomon had wisdom, but Jesus is wisdom. Solomon's heart was divided, but Jesus stayed perfectly surrendered. He is the true and better Solomon, and our confidence is not in our ability to hold on to him but in his ability to hold on to us.Pastor Josiah's practical challenge is worth writing down. Name what is getting too big in your life. Let one or two trusted people question your drift. Return to daily surrender. What you keep feeding will eventually start leading, and the strongest guard is not what you build around your kingdom, but what you guard in your heart.If you have been quietly drifting through a comfortable season, this teaching is for you.

In this faith-building message on El Gibbor—The Mighty God, we discover the incomparable power, strength, and majesty of the God who fights for His people and empowers the weak. From Isaiah's prophetic declaration that the coming Messiah would be called "Mighty God" to the psalmist's praise of His unsearchable greatness, this sermon reveals a God whose might has no equal and whose power never fails. Scripture reminds us that El Gibbor is not only mighty in battle, but mighty in mercy, covenant, and compassion—calling His people to love Him wholeheartedly, walk in His ways, and trust Him above every circumstance. Just as God called Gideon a "mighty man of valor" before he ever saw himself that way, He still speaks identity and courage over those who feel weak, overlooked, or inadequate. Isaiah 40 declares that while human strength fades and even the strongest grow weary, El Gibbor never grows tired, and He freely gives His strength to those who wait on Him. Whether you're facing impossible odds, battling fear, or longing for renewed hope, this message will inspire you to lift your eyes to the Mighty God who reigns over heaven and earth, renews the strength of His people, and is more than able to accomplish the impossible through those who trust in Him.

In this special Fourth of July episode, Pastor Josiah Elias sits down with Chaplain Tim Brock "Chaps" from Camp Pendleton to discuss faith, freedom, and the role of religion in the military. Together, they explore how service members navigate their beliefs while serving their country, the unique challenges of ministry in the armed forces, and the importance of spiritual resilience. Whether you're connected to the military or simply curious about the intersection of faith and service, this conversation offers meaningful insight and encouragement.

Jacob's journey to Bethel began in one of the darkest seasons of his life. Running from his past, uncertain of his future, and alone in the wilderness, he encountered the presence of God in a place he least expected. There, God revealed His covenant, promised His faithfulness, and Jacob declared, "Surely the LORD is in this place."But God's desire was never for Jacob to merely remember a sacred place—it was to know the God who met him there.Years later, God called Jacob back to Bethel. Before returning, Jacob instructed his household to put away their idols, purify themselves, and prepare their hearts for worship. This time, Jacob didn't simply revisit the place of his encounter; he built an altar and called it El Bethel—"The God of Bethel." His relationship had matured from revering a location to worshiping the God who had faithfully been with him every step of the journey.In this message, discover how God often meets us in unexpected places, calls us to leave behind the idols that compete for our hearts, and invites us into a deeper relationship with Him. Our faith cannot be built on yesterday's experiences or sacred moments alone—it must be rooted in the living God who remains faithful through every season.If you've ever found yourself longing to return to the place where you first encountered God, this message is an invitation to move beyond the memory of an experience and into a lifelong relationship with the God of every encounter.Key Scriptures:• Genesis 28:10–19• Genesis 31:13• Genesis 35:1–7Join us as we pursue the presence of Jesus, grow in His Word, and cultivate a culture like Christ at Faith Chapel San Diego.

CAN GOD CHANGE MY SEXUALITY? In this episode, Franny, Nick, and Steph join the conversation to share their personal stories of struggle, identity, and encountering Jesus in the middle of complex and deeply personal seasons of life. Together, they open up about what it looked like for them to wrestle with questions of sexuality, faith, and transformation, and how their relationship with Christ reshaped the way they understand who they are. This conversation explores healing, grace, conviction, and what it means to follow Jesus fully, even when the journey is difficult and deeply personal. Tune in for an honest and heartfelt discussion about identity, redemption, and the power of God to meet us where we are, but not leave us there!

How do you respond when someone corrects you? Listen to this message from 2 Chronicles 25, where Pastor Josiah teaches us about King Amaziah and what his life reveals about listening to the correction of others.

In this powerful Father's Day message, Pastor Josiah Elias reveals the danger of deception and the victory believers have through Jesus Christ, the Last Adam.From the Garden of Eden to the Cross of Calvary, Scripture reveals two covenant heads: Adam, whose disobedience brought sin and death into the world, and Jesus Christ, whose obedience secured righteousness, grace, and eternal life for all who believe. While deception entered through the fall, God has made a way for His people to walk in truth, discernment, and freedom.As believers, we are no longer defined by our old nature. Through Christ, we have become a new creation. Yet even today, the enemy seeks to corrupt pure devotion to Jesus through subtle compromise, distraction, and deception. This message challenges fathers, families, and every believer to remain vigilant, guard their hearts, and stay anchored in the truth of God's Word.Discover the eternal consequences of rejecting deception, the authority believers have in Christ, and the beautiful picture of redemption revealed from Adam's side in Genesis to Christ's pierced side on the Cross.This Father's Day message is a call for men to lead with discernment, for families to stand firm in truth, and for the Church to remain devoted to Jesus above all else.Key Scriptures:1 Corinthians 15:45-472 Corinthians 5:171 Timothy 2:142 Corinthians 11:2-3Romans 5:12-21Genesis 2:21John 19:34If this message encouraged you, be sure to like, subscribe, and share it with someone who needs to hear the truth that sets people free.

How should Christians respond to racism, and what role does the Church play in bringing healing and redemption? In this episode, Pastor Josiah Elias tackles a conversation that is both timely and deeply important, exploring the realities of racism through the lens of the Gospel. Together, they discuss unity, reconciliation, justice, and the redemptive power of Jesus to heal division and restore what has been broken. Whether you're wrestling with these topics personally or seeking a biblical perspective, this episode will challenge, encourage, and point you back to the heart of Christ. Tune in! You may see the Church's role in redemption in a whole new way.

To the Ends of the Earth | Week 10 | Who Are You? | Pastor Josiah Thomas | Life Center Tacoma Acts 19:11-15 (CSB) Believe in the POWER of God Acts 19:11-12 (CSB) Know the PERSON of Jesus Acts 19:13-15 (CSB) Matthew 7:21-23 (CSB) Respond with ACTION Acts 19:16-20 (CSB) Luke 9:23-24 (CSB) Acts 19:20 (CSB) 2 Corinthians 5:17 (CSB)

As we continue in our new series on the Foundations of the Church, Pastor Josiah built on what we looked at last week, as he examined the supernatural change that comes from the proclamation of God's word. No matter who you are or where you've come from, we all must be born again in order to be part of God's family and gain access into his Kingdom. In his exposition of John 3:1-21, Pastor Josiah showed us how Christ's church is made up of sinful people who have been born from above and are being made new by the power of the Holy Spirit!

This week, Pastor Josiah kicked off our new series “Foundations of the Church” with a sermon entitled, “A Firm Foundation,” centered on 2 Timothy 4:1-8. In his message, Pastor Josiah shares how a faithful church is built on the Word of God, guarded by his Word, and sent out with his Word to reach the nations with the hope of the Gospel. The only way for a church to persevere until Christ's return is to be built on the firm foundation of God's word.

What do you do when you don't know what to do?Listen to Pastor Josiah as he teaches from 2 Chronicles 17–20, where King Jehoshaphat shows us how God's people respond in times of crisis: we pray, and we sing.

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When God feels painfully late to show up, what are you supposed to do? When you have prayed, trusted, and stayed faithful, and the relationship still fell apart, the door still closed, the diagnosis still came, the child still kept running. This sermon walks straight into that tension and refuses to look away.Pastor Josiah opens with a question most of us are quietly carrying. How do we trust Jesus when his timing breaks our expectations? He starts with a story you have probably felt a version of, the marathon of waiting in line at Disneyland, where everyone is asking the same question. Is it worth the wait? Then he names the harder version of that question we ask in real life. What if God could just give us a timeline? What if he would say, the grief lasts eight months, the anxiety lifts in a year, the prayer gets answered Tuesday at 4:15. But that is not how faith works. God rarely gives us a timeline. Instead, he gives us himself.From there, Pastor Josiah moves into John chapter 11, the story of Lazarus, Mary, and Martha. Jesus gets the message that his friend is sick, and what does he do? He waits two more days. The verse says it almost shockingly. Although Jesus loved them, he stayed where he was. Pastor Josiah unpacks three truths from this chapter that meet you exactly where you are when life feels stuck.Delay is not denial. The love of God is not always proven by the speed of his response. Sometimes it is revealed in what he is producing through the waiting. Some of God's deepest work happens in the waiting room, between the test and the results.Don't forget who he is. When Martha runs out to meet Jesus, she leads with disappointment. But Jesus responds not with a fix, he responds with his identity. I am the resurrection and the life. Faith is not built on outcomes. Faith is built on a person who is still faithful, still sovereign, still near, still good.Gratitude comes before the movement. At the tomb, with Lazarus still dead inside, Jesus thanks the Father before anything visible has changed. Anyone can worship after resurrection. Mature faith thanks God while the situation looks exactly the same.Pastor Josiah lands on the most beautiful picture of the gospel in the whole story. The only barrier between Lazarus and Jesus was a stone. The only barrier between you and God is sin, and Jesus is the one who rolls the stone away and calls dead things back to life. Then he turns to his people and says, unwrap him. The church is invited into the slow, sanctifying work of walking with people coming out of the grave with their grave clothes still on.If you have been spiritually exhausted, carrying disappointment so long that hope itself feels dangerous, this teaching from Pastor Josiah is for you.

In his sermon, “The Mercy That Makes Us Useful” centered on Titus 3:1-8, Pastor Josiah shared how we as believers should live in light of God's incredible mercy. Since God has saved us by his mercy, believers must devote themselves to good works before all people so that God can use us to advance the gospel and bring him glory!

Why does God feel painfully late on the prayer you have been praying for years? The one for the marriage, the child, the healing, the door that still has not opened. If you have ever wondered whether God is even listening, this sermon was made for you.In this message, Pastor Josiah walks through John 11, the story of Lazarus, and asks a question almost no one wants to admit they are sitting in. How do we trust Jesus when his timing breaks our expectations? Most of us have a version of that question quietly running in the background of our lives. We have prayed. We have trusted. We have stayed faithful. And yet the relationship is still in pieces. The diagnosis still came back the way we feared. The child still has not come home. The anxiety is still here.Pastor Josiah pulls three honest, freeing truths out of this chapter. First, delay is not denial. Verse 6 says Jesus loved Martha, Mary, and Lazarus, so he stayed. Not so he rushed. So he stayed. That single word reframes everything. The love of God is not always measured by the speed of his response. Sometimes it is measured by what he is producing in the silence.Second, do not forget who he is. When Martha runs to Jesus, disappointed and grieving, he does not give her a five step plan. He gives her himself. I am the resurrection and the life. Faith is not built on outcomes. Faith is built on a Person. Some of us have become so consumed with what God has not done that we have forgotten who he still is.Third, gratitude comes before the movement. Before Jesus calls Lazarus out of the tomb, he stops and thanks his Father. The stone is still in place. The body is still inside. And Jesus is already worshiping. Pastor Josiah points out that anyone can worship after the resurrection. Mature faith worships while the grave is still in front of you.The sermon lands somewhere most preaching does not dare go. Jesus, knowing exactly what he was about to do, still wept at the tomb. He is not emotionally disconnected from your pain. He is fully God and fully human, and he enters in. Faith is not pretending you are okay. Faith is bringing your real pain to a real Savior who already knows the end of the story.And the end of this story is the gospel itself. Lazarus, whose name actually means God is my helper, was dead, wrapped, sealed in a tomb, with every reason gone. And Jesus stood at the entrance and called him out. That is what Pastor Josiah reminds us he still does today. To every person sitting in their sin, their past, their addiction, their shame, Jesus is on the other side of the wall calling, come out. The barrier is already gone.

What is the difference between passively waiting for Christ's return and actively waiting for his second coming? In his sermon centered on Titus 2:11-15, Pastor Josiah outlines the key elements in waiting well for Christ's return.