Podcasts about scripture mark

Scripture: Mark 2:1–12 Jesus returns to Capernaum and a massive crowd gathers so tightly packed that there isn't even room outside the door. While Jesus preaches the Word, four friends arrive carrying a paralyzed man—so desperate to get him to Jesus that they climb onto the roof, dig through it, and lower their friend down right in front of Him. But instead of healing the man first, Jesus says something surprising: “Son, your sins are forgiven.” This becomes the beginning of controversy because the teachers of the law know that only God can forgive sins. Jesus responds by showing that He has authority on earth to forgive sins, and then proves it by commanding the man to stand, pick up his mat, and walk home. This story reminds us that Jesus cares about our bodies and our needs, but our greatest need is to be forgiven and made right with God—something Jesus accomplished through His death and resurrection. Want Weekly Activities & Family Resources? If your family loves Kids Bible Stories and you want to keep the learning going, check out the Family Library on Patreon. You'll get episode-based resources like activity sheets, coloring pages, member-only audio, and more—all saved and organized by episode number so you can easily revisit favorites anytime. Join here: https://patreon.com/kidsbiblestories try it for free!

COMPANION SAINT PRAYER-St. Mother Teresa, your thirst for Jesus opened your heart to love. Show me where my own soul is parched that I may drink from the Living Water that quenches all desire.SCRIPTURE- Mark 8:33"Jesus turned around and looked at his disciples. He saw that Peter was not saying good things. And Jesus said to him, 'Get behind me Satan. You are a stumbling block to me.'"REFLECTION- Fr. RonMUSIC- Meditation: "For my parents" by Malte Marten NOTES- Blog: The Seven Last Words of Jesus by Mary Ellyn Schneider- Lent: Check out the LENT page on The God Minute website to find out more about our programming for this week.PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You.

Scripture: Mark 1:40–45 In this episode, we continue our journey through the Gospel of Mark and hear the powerful story of a man with leprosy who came to Jesus and begged, “If You are willing, You can make me clean.” Kids will hear how people in Bible times often stayed far away from those with leprosy—but Jesus did something shocking and beautiful: He came near and touched the man before healing him. Join the Family Library on Patreon for member-only audio, coloring pages for  episodes, and more. New weekly resources are sent straight to your email and are always saved in the library, where you can search by episode number anytime—made for real families and real schedules. Try a free trial at: patreon.com/kidsbiblestories

In this message we explore Mark 6:45–52 and how hardened hearts kept the disciples from recognizing what God was doing—even after witnessing miracles. This teaching challenges us to release control, soften our hearts, and trust God's presence and provision, believing He still moves in powerful and unexpected ways today.Scripture: Mark 6:45–52Speaker: Pastor Jon CampanaDid you make a decision to follow Christ today? We'd love to support you—email us at info@theconnectchurch.com.Learn more about The Connect Church and stay connected: https://linktr.ee/theconnectchurch

Are small acts of kindness enough to change someone’s eternity? In Week 3 of the Come to Jesus series, guest pastor Bob Merritt shares a powerful message called Seeds of Kindness about how everyday love can open the door for someone to encounter Jesus. In Mark 4, Jesus tells a parable about a farmer scattering seeds. Some fall on hard soil, some on rocky ground, some among thorns, and some on good soil. The condition of the soil represents the condition of the human heart. Our job is not to control the soil. Our job is simply to sow the seeds. Through stories, Scripture, and practical wisdom, this message explores what it looks like to sow seeds of love in the lives of neighbors, coworkers, and friends. You’ll discover: Why love is often the first step toward faith How small acts of kindness can point people to Jesus Why fear keeps many believers from sharing their faith How God uses simple conversations to change lives When we scatter seeds of patience, kindness, forgiveness, and truth, God can use them to transform someone’s life. Scripture: Mark 4, Romans 3:23, Romans 6:23, John 3:16, Romans 10:9 #ComeToJesus #SeedsOfKindness #BobMerritt #ChristianSermon #Evangelism #BibleTeaching #ConnectionPointeChurch NEXT STEPSHave you made a decision to follow Jesus and now wondering what your next step is? We want to help! https://www.connectionpointe.org/nextsteps/ ABOUT CONNECTION POINTEAt Connection Pointe, our mission is to connect people to Jesus and each other. Whether you've been around church your whole life or this is a brand new journey, we have a place for you and we hope your journey will include joining us at a Connection Pointe location or online at https://connectionpointe.org/live Find locations, videos, and more info about us at https://www.connectionpointe.org/ FIND US ON SOCIAL MEDIAFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/connectionpointeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/connect_cp Find out more about our lead pastor, John S. Dickerson: https://www.connectionpointe.org/leadpastor

Sermon given by Pastor Mark Donaldson on March 8, 2026 at ElmCreek Community Church in Maple Grove, MN. Scripture: Mark 11:27-33

Scripture: Mark 1:29–39 Jesus leaves the synagogue and goes to Simon and Andrew's home—where Simon's mother-in-law is sick with a fever. Jesus comes close, takes her hand, and heals her immediately. That evening, the whole town gathers at the door, and Jesus heals many and drives out demons. Then, while it's still dark, Jesus goes to a quiet place to pray. When the disciples say, “Everyone is looking for you!”, Jesus explains His mission: to go to the nearby villages and preach the good news. Big Idea: Jesus is compassionate—and Jesus has a mission. Weekly resources for busy parents:Join the Family Library on Patreon to get weekly discipleship resources emailed straight to parents—simple to access, easy to use, and built for real-life families. Ad free episodes and member only audio also just for you!https://www.patreon.com/kidsbiblestories

Sermon given by Pastor Mark Donaldson on March 1, 2026 at ElmCreek Community Church in Maple Grove, MN. Scripture: Mark 11:12-25

Jesus gave his life to reveal God's love for the world. Pastor Jacquie Leveron delivers Part 1 of the series Love On the Cross.Scripture: Mark:27-31Support the show

Sermon given by Pastor Mark Donaldson on February 22,2026 at ElmCreek Community Church in Maple Grove, MN. Scripture: Mark 11:1-11 Concluded with 5 baptisms.

Christian men often experience anxiety and fear at night.If you feel pressure to provide, lead your family, and build something meaningful — this message is for you.In this video, Red Wallace teaches Christian leadership principles rooted in Scripture (Mark 4, Ephesians 5, 1 Peter 5) to help men overcome fear of the unknown and regain clarity, focus, and peace.Topics covered:- Fear of the unknown in Christian men- Anxiety after 10PM explained- Leadership and distraction- Biblical perspective on storms- How to lead your family without panic- Christian fatherhood and provision mindset- Stewardship vs anxiety- Peace over panicIf you're a husband, father, entrepreneur, or leader wrestling with identity and pressure, subscribe and join a community of men building with faith and focus.CHAPTERS:00:00 Why Everything Feels Worse After 10 PM (Nighttime Anxiety)00:25 Meet Red Wallace + The Real Enemy: Fear of the Unknown00:49 The Juggling Illusion: You're Not Carrying It All at Once02:45 Uncertainty Breeds Fear (Power Outage & Thriller Movie Analogy)03:35 Biblical Perspective on Storms: Jesus' Authority Over Fear04:12 Distractions, Side Quests, and Fragmented Leadership04:55 3-Step Nighttime Reset: Name It, Separate Facts, Take the Next Step05:28 Practical Stewardship: Life Insurance & Protecting Your Family06:44 Why Nights Get Loud + How to Cultivate Peace and Identity07:48 Closing Prayer + Call to Action (Lead Calm, Guard Your Peace)WHO AM IHey, I'm Red Wallace, a former rapper(10 year career) current drummer turned personal development coach. Through podcast(mostly on YouTube) and 1on1/group coaching, I provide guidance to help you chisel away the parts that aren't you revealing your true identity, empowering you to live your God given purpose!

The Question That Reveals Your Heart, Your Purpose, and Your Faith This is for you if: You've been following Jesus for years but feel your spiritual passion cooling. Your prayer life feels repetitive — or self-focused. You're wrestling with whether you're truly surrendered or just spiritually comfortable. You want to move from spectator Christianity to active discipleship. You've been asking God for things… but aren't sure what that reveals about your heart. Sermon Description Big Idea True spiritual sight is revealed not in what you see — but in what you seek. Scripture: Mark 10:46-52 What if one question from Jesus could expose your deepest desires — and redirect your entire spiritual life? In this powerful two-part message from Mark 10, we explore the moment Jesus asks two very different people the same question: "What do you want me to do for you?" One seeks status. The other cries out for mercy. One walks away disappointed. The other follows Jesus on the road. This sermon confronts the heart behind our prayers, challenges passive Christianity, and calls us to persistent, desperate faith. If you've ever wondered whether you're truly following Jesus or simply asking Him to fix things, this message will press into that tension. Topics: Christian discipleship, Mark 10, Bartimaeus, prayer life, spiritual growth, faith and persistence, following Jesus, surrender, biblical teaching, Gospel transformation. Sermon Notes Jesus asks one question that exposes everything: "What do you want me to do for you?" Same question. Two people. Two completely different hearts. One asks for status. One cries for mercy. Your prayers reveal what you really believe about Jesus. Are you asking to be elevated… or transformed? Bartimaeus refuses to be silenced — desperate faith gets louder. Spectator faith sits comfortably. Discipleship gets on the road. Jesus doesn't heal just to improve your life — He heals to lead it. What you seek reveals whether you truly see. When Jesus looks at you and asks, "What do you want?" — how will you answer?   Resources + Links: Episode Site:  gospeldaily.org/podcast-1456-1457  Visit the site - www.gospeldaily.org to subscribe to our email ➡️ Read an additional resource from Josh Weidmann entitled:  Pastor Josh's Blog Site: www.joshweidmann.com  Series: Marked for Glory  

The Question That Reveals Your Heart, Your Purpose, and Your Faith This is for you if: You've been following Jesus for years but feel your spiritual passion cooling. Your prayer life feels repetitive — or self-focused. You're wrestling with whether you're truly surrendered or just spiritually comfortable. You want to move from spectator Christianity to active discipleship. You've been asking God for things… but aren't sure what that reveals about your heart. Sermon Description Big Idea True spiritual sight is revealed not in what you see — but in what you seek. Scripture: Mark 10:46-52 What if one question from Jesus could expose your deepest desires — and redirect your entire spiritual life? In this powerful two-part message from Mark 10, we explore the moment Jesus asks two very different people the same question: "What do you want me to do for you?" One seeks status. The other cries out for mercy. One walks away disappointed. The other follows Jesus on the road. This sermon confronts the heart behind our prayers, challenges passive Christianity, and calls us to persistent, desperate faith. If you've ever wondered whether you're truly following Jesus or simply asking Him to fix things, this message will press into that tension. Topics: Christian discipleship, Mark 10, Bartimaeus, prayer life, spiritual growth, faith and persistence, following Jesus, surrender, biblical teaching, Gospel transformation. Sermon Notes Jesus asks one question that exposes everything: "What do you want me to do for you?" Same question. Two people. Two completely different hearts. One asks for status. One cries for mercy. Your prayers reveal what you really believe about Jesus. Are you asking to be elevated… or transformed? Bartimaeus refuses to be silenced — desperate faith gets louder. Spectator faith sits comfortably. Discipleship gets on the road. Jesus doesn't heal just to improve your life — He heals to lead it. What you seek reveals whether you truly see. When Jesus looks at you and asks, "What do you want?" — how will you answer?   Resources + Links: Episode Site:  gospeldaily.org/podcast-1456-1457  Visit the site - www.gospeldaily.org to subscribe to our email ➡️ Read an additional resource from Josh Weidmann entitled:  Pastor Josh's Blog Site: www.joshweidmann.com  Series: Marked for Glory  

Sermon given by Pastor Mark Donaldson on February 15, 2026 at ElmCreek Community Church in Maple Grove, MN. Scripture: Mark 10:32-52

Sermon:  "It's Time"   Scripture:  Mark 1:9-15   Speaker:  Dr. Jin Taek Chung(A testimony of deliverance shared before the sermon & referenced within it can be heard by clicking here.)

‭Scripture Mark 10‬‬:‭32‬-‭45 32 They were on their way up to Jerusalem, with Jesus leading the way, and the disciples were astonished, while those who followed were afraid. Again he took the Twelve aside and told them what was going to happen to him. 33 “We are going up to Jerusalem,” he said, “and the […]

What does baptism really mean—and why does the Bible speak about it so strongly? In this sermon from Covenant Church Doylestown, we explore the deep biblical connections between baptism, salvation, the Holy Spirit, forgiveness, and union with Christ. Drawing from the Gospels, Acts, Romans, and the prophets, this message shows how baptism is a gift meant to comfort believers and shape how we live. This message covers: How baptism relates to salvation and faith Why baptism is connected to the gift of the Holy Spirit What it means for sins to be washed away How baptism unites us with Jesus' death and resurrection Why believers can walk in real freedom and new life Whether you were baptized long ago or are still considering it, this sermon invites you to rediscover the gift God has already given.

Sermon given by Pastor Mark Donaldson on February 8, 2026 at ElmCreek Community Church in Maple Grove, MN. Scripture: Mark 10:13-31

Welcome Graham fam! We are so glad you could watch Sunday morning online with us. Opening:Jesus encountered a demon-possessed man who embodied Satan's ultimate goal: to possess living beings and bring destruction. Scripture: Mark 5:1-20 Matthew 12:43-45 Acts 19:13-16 Points: Living beings! Satan prefers to inhabit living creatures rather than places. Demons like this legion preferred to dwell inside a human rather than a distant location. Humans are the crown of God's creation, so demons target them. Destruction of life! The demons caused extreme harm to the man, including self-inflicted injuries. They destroyed the man's ability to live normally, forcing him to wander and cut himself. When Jesus freed the man, the demons caused the death of over 2,000 pigs, showing the destructive power of unchecked demonic influence. Normalcy! The community initially accepted the man's condition, but when Jesus intervened, they feared the power of God. Satan wants his evil to be normalized and unnoticed, making people indifferent to his destructive presence. Avoid the Presence of God! Demons operate freely when God's presence is absent. The power of God is the only thing that can overcome Satan and his demons. Closing:Satan's ultimate goal is to possess you—whether through confusion, domination, or destruction. The story of the demon-possessed man in Mark 5 shows how deeply Satan targets human lives. Ask yourself: Who will you be possessed by? Choose God's presence and protection over the chaos of the world Watch past services: https://www.gcwesleyan.org/teaching/ Subscribe to Graham Chapel Youth: https://is.gd/grahamyouth Give to Graham Chapel: https://www.gcwesleyan.org/give/ Graham Chapel Wesleyan Church is in Mayo, SC near Cowpens and Chesnee in Spartanburg County. We'd love to have you join us in person on Sundays or Wednesdays for youth! Visit our website to learn more.

Love Anyway…Don't Be A Jerk, with Rev. Dr. Steven Koski. Series: Standalone Services A Spacious Christianity, First Presbyterian Church of Bend, Oregon. Scripture: Mark 7.24-30.Join us this Sunday to hear a thought-provoking message on loving others, even those we disagree with. Whether online or in-person, come with an open mind and heart as we explore what it means to love alike, not just think alike. All are welcome!Join us each Sunday, 10AM at bendfp.org, or 11AM KTVZ-CW Channel 612/12 in Bend.  Subscribe/Follow, and click the bell for alerts.At First Presbyterian, you will meet people at many different places theologically and spiritually. And we love it that way. We want to be a place where our diversity brings us together and where conversation takes us all deeper in our understanding of God.We call this kind of faith “Spacious Christianity.” We don't ask anyone to sign creeds or statements of belief. The life of faith is about a way of being in the world and a faith that shows itself in love.Thank you for your support of the mission of the First Presbyterian Church of Bend. Visit https://bendfp.org/giving/ for more information.Keywords:love despite differences, Christian faith test, finding God, open mind, open heart, Syrophoenician woman, Jesus's transformation, cultural conditioning, broader mission, open to learning, be opened, political sign, neighbor reconciliation, don't be a jerk, love one another, presbyterian, church, online worship, bend, oregonFeaturing:Rev. Dr. Steven Koski, Rev. Sharon Edwards, Becca Ellis, Brave of Heart, GuestsSupport the show

Sermon given by Pastor Mark Donaldson on February 1, 2026 at ElmCreek Community Church in Maple Grove, MN. Scripture: Mark 10:1-12

Grace When You Can't Undo the Past This is for you if you're carrying regret, guilt, or unanswered questions - and you're unsure whether grace still applies to your story. Sermon Description What does Jesus really say about marriage, commitment, failure, and grace? In this two-part message from Mark 10, Pastor Josh Weidmann walks through one of Jesus' most challenging teachings - where faith becomes personal and obedience becomes costly. Jesus confronts hard hearts, calls people back to God's original design, and speaks honestly about covenant, divorce, and faithfulness. But this sermon is not just about marriage rules. It's about discipleship, the condition of the human heart, and the hope of grace when we fall short. Whether you're married, single, divorced, remarried, or simply struggling with commitment in any area of life, this message invites you to wrestle with truth—and discover why Jesus' hardest words are often spoken in love. Scripture: Mark 10:1-12 Show Notes – Part 2 In Part 2, Jesus speaks with even greater clarity—and weight. Behind closed doors, His words leave no room for excuses or cultural shortcuts. For many, they feel heavy and unsettling. Pastor Josh walks carefully through this difficult passage, showing why Jesus refuses to soften His teaching—and how that very firmness points us toward grace. This episode explores: Why Jesus raises the standard instead of lowering it What covenant means in God's eyes Why divorce doesn't erase spiritual realities How guilt and regret surface in this passage Where repentance, forgiveness, and restoration begin Why the gospel doesn't end with hard words—but with hope This message is especially for anyone carrying regret, relational wounds, or fear that their story is beyond repair.   Resources + Links: Episode Site:  gospeldaily.org/podcast-1450-1451  Visit the site - www.gospeldaily.org to subscribe to our email ➡️ Read an additional resource from Josh Weidmann entitled: Christ's Persistence with My Stubbornness https://joshweidmann.com/christs-persistence-stubbornness/ Pastor Josh's Blog Site: www.joshweidmann.com  Series: Encountering Jesus  

When Following Jesus Gets Personal This is for you if you've ever looked for an easier way out of a hard commitment—or wondered why Jesus seems more concerned with your heart than your choices. Sermon Description What does Jesus really say about marriage, commitment, failure, and grace? In this two-part message from Mark 10, Pastor Josh Weidmann walks through one of Jesus' most challenging teachings - where faith becomes personal and obedience becomes costly. Jesus confronts hard hearts, calls people back to God's original design, and speaks honestly about covenant, divorce, and faithfulness. But this sermon is not just about marriage rules. It's about discipleship, the condition of the human heart, and the hope of grace when we fall short. Whether you're married, single, divorced, remarried, or simply struggling with commitment in any area of life, this message invites you to wrestle with truth—and discover why Jesus' hardest words are often spoken in love. Scripture: Mark 10:1-12 Show Notes – Part 1 This episode explores: Why the Pharisees' question was a trap How Jesus reframes the issue from rules to the heart What "hardness of heart" really means How Scripture can be used as a tool instead of a teacher Why God's design for marriage begins in creation, not culture How discipleship challenges our desire for comfort and control This message invites honest reflection on where we may be following Jesus selectively—especially when obedience gets hard.   Resources + Links: Episode Site:  gospeldaily.org/podcast-1450-1451  Visit the site - www.gospeldaily.org to subscribe to our email ➡️ Read an additional resource from Josh Weidmann entitled: Christ's Persistence with My Stubbornness https://joshweidmann.com/christs-persistence-stubbornness/ Pastor Josh's Blog Site: www.joshweidmann.com  Series: Encountering Jesus  

Sermon given by Pastor Mark Donaldson on January 25, 2026 at ElmCreek Community Church in Maple Grove, MN. Scripture: Mark 9:30-50

Pastor Sam Fleurry teaches “1 Is the Loneliest Number” as part of the Rhythms series, calling the church back to the spiritual rhythm of community. From Mark 2:1–12, he shows how godly community carries us to Jesus, covers our needs, cultivates our faith, and celebrates God's healing work. This message challenges isolation and individualism, emphasizing that accountability and connection are essential for spiritual growth and lasting transformation.Click here to view the episode transcript. (00:00) - Welcome + Community Groups Launch (01:05) - Scripture: Mark 2:1–12 (02:50) - We were made for community (04:41) - The danger of “me and God” faith (07:27) - Accountability builds consistency (11:58) - Individualism leads to isolation (13:02) - The paralyzed man needed community (15:24) - Paralysis today: shame and stuck seasons (21:15) - Godly community carries and covers you (23:16) - Testimony: provision through community (27:09) - Everybody wants community, not accountability (35:24) - Celebration, salvation invitation + response

Redefining Greatness Through Hidden Humility If you've ever equated greatness with recognition, influence, or being noticed—even subtly—this message invites you to see Jesus' definition of greatness in a completely different light.   Sermon Description What if everything you've been taught about greatness needs to be turned upside down? In this two-part message from Mark 9, Jesus radically redefines what it means to be great in the kingdom of God. Instead of pointing to visibility, influence, or recognition, He calls His followers to humility, hidden service, and a seriousness about holiness that challenges modern assumptions about faith and success. Across both episodes, Jesus confronts our desire to be seen and our tendency to tolerate quiet compromise. He exposes how our lives influence others—often more than we realize—and why true discipleship requires both humble service and decisive obedience. This message invites you to consider whether your faith is shaped more by cultural definitions of success or by the quiet, costly way of the cross.   Scripture: Mark 9:30-50   Show Notes – Part 1 Why Jesus confronts the disciples' obsession with ranking The difference between worldly greatness and kingdom greatness Why humility shows up in how we serve, not how we're seen What it means to serve those who can never repay us How hidden obedience reveals true allegiance to Christ   Resources + Links: Episode Site:  https://gospeldaily.org/podcast-1448-1449/  Visit the site - www.gospeldaily.org to subscribe to our email ➡️ Read an additional resource from Josh Weidmann entitled: A Biblical Perspective on New Year's Resolutions Pastor Josh's Blog Site: www.joshweidmann.com  Series: Encountering Jesus  

Hidden Influence, Holy Living, and the Cost of Compromise If you've ever assumed your faith is a private matter—or that small compromises don't really matter—this message confronts that assumption head-on.    Sermon Description What if everything you've been taught about greatness needs to be turned upside down? In this two-part message from Mark 9, Jesus radically redefines what it means to be great in the kingdom of God. Instead of pointing to visibility, influence, or recognition, He calls His followers to humility, hidden service, and a seriousness about holiness that challenges modern assumptions about faith and success. Across both episodes, Jesus confronts our desire to be seen and our tendency to tolerate quiet compromise. He exposes how our lives influence others—often more than we realize—and why true discipleship requires both humble service and decisive obedience. This message invites you to consider whether your faith is shaped more by cultural definitions of success or by the quiet, costly way of the cross.   Scripture: Mark 9:30-50   Show Notes – Part 2 Why faith never exists in isolation How hidden sin quietly sabotages others Jesus' strong warning about causing others to stumble What radical holiness actually looks like in everyday life Why purification, though uncomfortable, is an act of grace   Resources + Links: Episode Link: https://gospeldaily.org/podcast-1448-1449/  Visit the site - www.gospeldaily.org to subscribe to our email ➡️ Read an additional resource from Josh Weidmann entitled: A Biblical Perspective on New Year's Resolutions Pastor Josh's Blog Site: www.joshweidmann.com  Series: Encountering Jesus  

Welcome Graham fam! We are so glad you could watch Sunday morning online with us. Scripture* Mark 5:1-13* Genesis 3:1-5* 2 Corinthians 4:4a* Luke 4:6 Sermon Points* Confusion and disorientation!* Dominion!* Unnoticed! Watch past services: https://www.gcwesleyan.org/teaching/ Subscribe to Graham Chapel Youth: https://is.gd/grahamyouth Give to Graham Chapel: https://www.gcwesleyan.org/give/ Graham Chapel Wesleyan Church is in Mayo, SC near Cowpens and Chesnee in Spartanburg County. We'd love to have you join us in person on Sundays or Wednesdays for youth! Visit our website to learn more.

Sermon given by Pastor Mark Donaldson on January 18, 2026 at ElmCreek Community Church in Maple Grove, MN. Scripture: Mark 9:14-29

SHOW TITLE - Christian Unity: Restored for Mission A weekly program produced by the Catholic Diocese of Harrisburg, Pa. SHOW DESCRIPTION: Have you ever felt the weight of your life and thought 'I want a break - I need a break.' Did you know rest and renewal are both necessary for our faith to evolve? Kevin Cicak, CYO Director for the Diocese of Harrisburg and frequent retreat facilitator, joins us today to talk about how retreats are the perfect opportunity to engage in both. SCRIPTURE: Mark 1:35 SAINT SPOTLIGHT: St. Mary Magdalene          

When Competence Fails and Faith Feels Powerless If you're used to being capable, prepared, and spiritually "put together," this episode exposes why faith can quietly stop working—and why Jesus often meets us after we fail.    Sermon Description When you believe the right things about God, yet still struggle with fear, doubt, or spiritual exhaustion? In this two-part sermon from Mark 9:14–29, Pastor Josh Weidmann explores one of the most honest prayers in all of Scripture: "I believe—help my unbelief." Together, these messages address the tension many Christians live in every day—the gap between strong theology and fragile trust, between spiritual competence and real dependence on God. You'll discover why Jesus isn't threatened by doubt, how failure can become a doorway to deeper faith, and why true spiritual power flows not from confidence, experience, or technique—but from honest, prayerful dependence. This series is for anyone wrestling with weak faith, unanswered prayers, or the quiet fear that belief should feel easier by now—and for anyone longing to trust God more deeply, even when certainty feels out of reach. Scripture: Mark 9:14–29     Show Notes – Part 1 Why strong theology doesn't always translate into real trust The danger of spiritual self-reliance Mountaintop faith vs. valley dependence How failure exposes where power truly comes from Why Jesus meets us in our weakness—not after we fix it   Resources + Links: Episode Link:  https://gospeldaily.org/gospel-daily-podcast-1446-1447/  Visit the site - www.gospeldaily.org to subscribe to our email ➡️ Read an additional resource from Josh Weidmann entitled: Why are Trials Necessary to Grow Our Faith?  https://joshweidmann.com/why-are-trials-necessary-to-grow-our-faith/  Pastor Josh's Blog Site: www.joshweidmann.com  Series: Encountering Jesus  

The Prayer Jesus Answers When Faith and Doubt Collide If you've ever prayed with fear, uncertainty, or half-formed faith, this episode reveals why Jesus welcomes honest doubt—and how real faith grows through it.    Sermon Description When you believe the right things about God, yet still struggle with fear, doubt, or spiritual exhaustion? In this two-part sermon from Mark 9:14–29, Pastor Josh Weidmann explores one of the most honest prayers in all of Scripture: "I believe—help my unbelief." Together, these messages address the tension many Christians live in every day—the gap between strong theology and fragile trust, between spiritual competence and real dependence on God. You'll discover why Jesus isn't threatened by doubt, how failure can become a doorway to deeper faith, and why true spiritual power flows not from confidence, experience, or technique—but from honest, prayerful dependence. This series is for anyone wrestling with weak faith, unanswered prayers, or the quiet fear that belief should feel easier by now—and for anyone longing to trust God more deeply, even when certainty feels out of reach. Scripture: Mark 9:14–29     Show Notes – Part 2 Why Jesus welcomes honest doubt The difference between intellectual belief and heart-level trust How prayer—not technique—unleashes God's power Why pretending faith pushes us away from grace What it means to pray your contradictions   Resources + Links: Episode Link:  https://gospeldaily.org/gospel-daily-podcast-1446-1447/  Visit the site - www.gospeldaily.org to subscribe to our email ➡️ Read an additional resource from Josh Weidmann entitled: Why are Trials Necessary to Grow Our Faith?  https://joshweidmann.com/why-are-trials-necessary-to-grow-our-faith/  Pastor Josh's Blog Site: www.joshweidmann.com  Series: Encountering Jesus  

Evening Service: "Baptism and Theology" What is the history of baptism and what is its theological basis? Scripture: Mark 1:1-11

Morning Service: "What is Baptism?" Scripture: Mark 1:1-11 We will explore the Wesleyan concept of baptism as we consider how, and why we baptize and its relationship to salvation.

Sermon given by Pastor Mark Donaldson on January 11, 2026 at ElmCreek Community Church in Maple Grove, MN. Scripture: Mark 9:2-13

Scripture: Mark 12:30-31 / Zack Thurman

SCRIPTURE- Mark 6:34"When he disembarked and saw the vast crowd, his heart was moved with pity for them, for they were like sheep without a shepherd; and he began to teach them many things."REFLECTION- Fr. JasonMUSIC- "We Three Kings" by Danny Byram- "Shepherd Me, O God" by Relaxing Guitar GroupNOTES-PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You.

Sermon given by Pastor Mark Donaldson on January 4, 2026 at ElmCreek Community Church in Maple Grove, MN. Scripture: Mark 8:31-9:1

Scripture: Mark 12:28-34 / Zack Thurman

Scripture:  Mark 8:34, Mark 1:16-20, Mark 2:13-14, Mark 10:21 Speaker:  Scott Meyer Summary: This message introduces 2026  as a year focused on rediscovering what it truly means to follow Jesus.  Everyone is constantly being formed by something, and the church must move beyond attendance and information toward genuine spiritual formation. Using Jesus' invitation to “follow me,” a call to discipleship that means becoming an apprentice of Jesus — being with Him, becoming like Him, and doing what He did. The goal of faith is not simply being right or religious, but being transformed into the character and life of Christ through an active relationship empowered by the Holy Spirit.  This challenge is for each person to consider who or what they are following and to commit their lives to following Jesus as their rabbi.

Jesus, show me the beauty of my calling.Keywords: Servant; cross; suffering; calling; following Jesus; clarity; Jesus said.Scripture: Mark 10:38-39 Visit www.tsuzanneeller.com/books to read a free chapter of Come With Me: Discovering the Beauty of Following Where He leads

Sermon given by Pastor Mark Donaldson on December 28, 2025 at ElmCreek Community Church in Maple Grove, MN. Scripture: Mark 8:22-30

When life feels like a storm, you're not alone. In Mark 4, Jesus calms the storm—and reminds us that God is with us even when the waves are loud. In this message, Rich shares how Christmas points to Emmanuel (“God with us,” Matthew 1:23) and how real peace isn't found in perfect circumstances—it's found in Jesus' presence (John 14:27). Scripture: Mark 4:35–41 • Matthew 1:23 • John 14:27 --Connect With Us-- Need prayer, want to sign up for baptism or surrender your life to Christ? Follow this link : https://bit.ly/m/lifechurchia

Scripture:  Mark 1:1 Speaker:  Scott Meyer Summary: The sermon presents Mark's Gospel as a Christmas “card” that proclaims not a sentimental birth story but a bold headline: “The beginning of the good news about Jesus, the Messiah, the Son of God.” Mark's nativity is framed as a decisive announcement that something world-changing has happened—God has acted in history, not merely offered an idea or feeling. The good news is that Jesus, whose name means “God saves,” is the promised Messiah who fulfills every hope and promise of Scripture by coming as a Savior first. By calling Jesus the Son of God, Mark declares that God is not distant but has stepped into our broken world and our personal stories to rescue us. Christmas, therefore, is a proclamation of victory and hope, inviting us to receive and boldly declare that Jesus has arrived for us.      

2025-11-02-1030 Pastor Loran Livingston is the speaker this morning, November 2, 2025, in the 10;30 AM service.   Scripture: Mark 4:35-41; Mark 9:14-29; Revelation 4   Notes: -You can't take it or fool God that you have faith. -Faith is not being perfect; it's about being honest with yourself and God. -Ask Him to strengthen your faith. -He loves you and is working all things out for your good!

2025-11-02-0830 Pastor Loran Livingston is the speaker this morning, November 2, 2025, in the 8;30 AM service.   Scripture: Mark 4:35-41; Mark 9:14-29; Revelation 4   Notes: -You can't take it or fool God that you have faith. -Faith is not being perfect; it's about being honest with yourself and God. -Ask Him to strengthen your faith. -He loves you and is working all things out for your good!

His Hebrew name is Jacob. He was a close kinsman of Christ, and was therefore called, according to the Jewish usage of the time, his "brother." Some accounts say that he was a child of Joseph by his first marriage; others accounts say that he was the son of Joseph's brother Cleopas and his wife Mary, who was first cousin of the Theotokos. He took the Nazirite vows of one completely consecrated to God according to the Law, and from a young age he was called "the Just" by his people. He is called James the Lesser in Scripture (Mark 15:40) to distinguish him from James the son of Zebedee, who is called the Greater. The Apostles appointed him first Bishop of Jerusalem. It was he who presided at the earliest Council of the Church in Jerusalem, where he resolved the problem of how gentile converts should be received into the Church (see Acts 15). He wrote the New Testament Epistle, addressed primarily to Jewish converts to the Faith, that bears his name. About the year 62, he ascended to the peak of the Temple in Jerusalem on Passover, and there bore witness to Christ so effectively that the people cried out "Hosanna to the Son of David." At this, the Scribes and Pharisees, fearing that all the people would be converted to Christ, cast him down to the ground. By God's grace, he survived long enough to rise, kneel and pray, like his Master, "Forgive them, Father, for they know not what they do." He was then clubbed to death by one of the scribes.

His Hebrew name is Jacob. He was a close kinsman of Christ, and was therefore called, according to the Jewish usage of the time, his "brother." Some accounts say that he was a child of Joseph by his first marriage; others accounts say that he was the son of Joseph's brother Cleopas and his wife Mary, who was first cousin of the Theotokos. He took the Nazirite vows of one completely consecrated to God according to the Law, and from a young age he was called "the Just" by his people. He is called James the Lesser in Scripture (Mark 15:40) to distinguish him from James the son of Zebedee, who is called the Greater. The Apostles appointed him first Bishop of Jerusalem. It was he who presided at the earliest Council of the Church in Jerusalem, where he resolved the problem of how gentile converts should be received into the Church (see Acts 15). He wrote the New Testament Epistle, addressed primarily to Jewish converts to the Faith, that bears his name. About the year 62, he ascended to the peak of the Temple in Jerusalem on Passover, and there bore witness to Christ so effectively that the people cried out "Hosanna to the Son of David." At this, the Scribes and Pharisees, fearing that all the people would be converted to Christ, cast him down to the ground. By God's grace, he survived long enough to rise, kneel and pray, like his Master, "Forgive them, Father, for they know not what they do." He was then clubbed to death by one of the scribes.