Podcasts about Watermark

How is fellowship really lived out at Watermark? Is there hope for the younger generation? In today's episode, Emma Dotter sits down with Watermark's Shoreline Director, Will McIlroy, to share powerful stories of genuine fellowship in action. Will highlights how Watermark students are actively living out their faith through gathering for worship, devotion to God's Word, and meaningful community with one another. This conversation offers a glimpse into what it looks like when faith is practiced together—not just taught. // ADDITIONAL VERSES MENTIONED: 1 John 1:1-4  // RESOURCES FOR FURTHER STUDY:  If you have students in 6-12 grade, check out DTown happening February 6-7, 2026: https://www.watermark.org/events/6834-dtown-2026 See what God is doing in our students' lives on Shoreline's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shorelinedallas/?hl=en // RELATED JOIN THE JOURNEY EPISODES:  S4:263 – Introduction to the book of Acts” (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...) S3:035 – Ecclesiastes 7 with Craig Wenning (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/s3-035-ecclesiastes-7/id1600151923?i=1000645562308)  // WHAT IS JOIN THE JOURNEY? Join The Journey is a realistic daily Bible reading plan that helps followers of Jesus at Watermark Community Church and beyond enjoy abiding in Jesus together. Join The Journey Jr. is designed to help parents guide their kids in Bible reading through interactive and age-specific lessons. In 2026, we're studying the book of Acts—one passage per week. For another year, teaching on Sunday will align with each week's passage. Then, for the next six days, we'll return to the same passage with fresh focus, exploring insights about who God is and how we can enjoy him more deeply. Monday through Saturday, we'll approach the same passage from a different perspective each day—whether observation, interpretation, prayer, or another spiritual practice—to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for God's Word. Then, watch or listen to the video podcast to tackle the week's toughest verses and discover key historical, theological, and practical insights. Daily Bible lessons for adults: https://jointhejourney.com Daily Bible lessons for parents and families: https://jointhejourney.com/jr Weekly Bible podcast for kids: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...  // MORE RESOURCES FROM JOIN THE JOURNEY:  Digital Bible study resources: https://jointhejourney.com/resources Previous years' print curriculum: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Waterma... Contact the Join The Journey team: jointhejourney@watermark.org 

In today's Conversations for the Journey, host and Care Director Wes Butler leads us in praying through Acts 2:42-47. This week Wes reads Acts 2:42-47 and encourages you to pray how the Spirit would lead you. We spend time praying for the church—that we would be people who reflect the heart of God the Father, have eagerness to fellowship with one another, and be sensitive to those around us in need. If you would like to submit a prayer request to the Watermark prayer team, you can do so at https://www.watermark.org/prayerYou can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources!https://www.jointhejourney.com/Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df

"Join us this week for 7 Days of Prayer and Fasting! In today's Conversations for the Journey, host and Care Director Wes Butler leads us in praying through Acts 2:42-47. Today, we pray through our 3 markers of being a Shepherding church, a Community church, and a Unifying church. We also spend time praying that God would ""add to our numbers"" and that we would see many people in our city saved by Jesus Christ. Join us for A Night of Prayer and Worship! This Thursday, January 29 from 7:00-9:00PM at Watermark. You can find more information at https://www.watermark.org/events/6876-night-of-prayer-and-worship-7-days-of-prayer-and-fasting If you would like to submit a prayer request to the Watermark prayer team, you can do so at https://www.watermark.org/prayer You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df"

A folklorist is swept up in a journey to find the proof that supports her seemingly preposterous notion about porcupines and fairy tales. Genre: Fairy Tale   Excerpt:Tommie's conjecture concerned the many fairy tales where a sudden growth of thorny vines encompassed a tower or a castle to protect, or more likely imprison, a young woman possessing some degree of power—a princess of surpassing beauty, say, or a sorceress. That growth was typically attributed to a magic spell cast by an evil witch or jealous warlock. Tommie allowed that magic and wickedness may have been involved, or not. Either way, the wild thorny thickets that held back princes were cast out by a creature. "Have you ever heard of the prickly vine porcupine?"   The Wheel of Fiction Turns. What did it land on this time?Each Season 9 story follows a theme chosen by the Wheel of Fiction. Thirteen spokes. Eight are the themes from previous seasons. One is "Turn Again." One is a wild card. And three are covered in question marks and will be revealed when the wheel lands on them. This episode landed on CREATURES. See a story trailer and a (satisfying) video of the wheel turning here: Isle of the Fairy Ring Find more stories and episodes featuring this theme here: Year of Creatures.   MERCH!Interested in merch, like mugs and notebooks, featuring my artwork?Please visit my Store page for info on where you can buy: STORYFEATHER STORE   The Store page also has sign-up forms for my two email newsletters: Storyfeather Gazette (if you'd like to keep up with the fiction I create)Fictioneer's Field Guide (if you'd like writing tips and guidance from me)  Choose what you want. (Either way, you're choosing high jinks.)   MY FIRST BOOK (yay)Ever wonder how I've gotten all these hundreds of stories written? I have a method. And I talk all about it in my book called Fictioneer's Field Guide: A Game Plan for Writing Short Stories. It's now available from Amazon as an eBook, paperback, and hardcover. You can also get there from my Store page: STORYFEATHER STORE   CREDITSStory: "Isle of the Fairy Ring" Copyright © 2022 by Nila L. PatelNarration, Episode Art, Editing, and Production: Nila L. Patel   Music:"Quizitive" by LEE ROSEVERE (Intro)"All the Answers" by LEE ROSEVERE (Outro)"Abstract Vision #5" by ANDREW SITKOV (Outro) Music by LEE ROSEVERE"Awkward Silences Version b""All the Answers""Small Steps""Betrayal""Expectations""Not Alone""Heat Haze""Quizitive""Puzzle Pieces""Making a Change""Awkward Silences Version a" Track by Andrew Sitkov is part of a music and sound effects bundles I purchased from Humble Bundle and sourced from GameDev Market. Music by Andrew Sitkov is licensed from GameDev MarketMusic by Lee Rosevere is licensed under CC BY 4.0 Sound effects from AudioJungle, GameDevMarket, and Soundly (through Hindenburg)Changes made to the musical tracks? Just cropping of some to align with my narration.   Find more music by Andrew Sitkov at gamedevmarket.net Find more music by Lee Rosevere at freemusicarchive.org/music/lee-rosevere and leerosevere.bandcamp.com Find more stories by Nila at storyfeather.com   Episode Art Description:Digital drawing. A porcupine with an array of glowing greenish quills, facing and looking forward, seen from the right flank. The wispy shapes of yellow and purple mushrooms surround the porcupine, suggesting the shape of a ring. At top right, there floats a bright glow, surrounded by hazy pink light. Watermark of "Storyfeather" along the inner part of the porcupine's left foreleg. Rectangular image made square with top and bottom borders that display blurred sections of the main image.

"In today's Conversations for the Journey, host and Care Director Wes Butler leads us in praying through Acts 2:22-41. In this episode, we pray through 3 prompts seen in Acts 2:22-41—we ask forgiveness for not sharing the Gospel when prompted, for God to confirm and affirm salvation in our hearts, and that we would be a missional church filled with boldness to share the Gospel. If you would like to submit a prayer request to the Watermark prayer team, you can do so at https://www.watermark.org/prayer You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL3ZFupC-BJyUebMTMH_uW468F2bvQm6nd Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df"

In this message, Dave Bruskas walks through Peter's sermon at Pentecost to help us better understand who Jesus is and why his life, death, and resurrection matter. The sermon shows that while God was at work through Jesus, our sin made the cross necessary. When the crowd realizes this, they ask what to do next, and Peter calls them to repent, be baptized, and follow Jesus. For us today, the invitation is to keep turning to Jesus, enjoy the presence of the Holy Spirit, and live as worshipers and witnesses.

In this message, Dave Bruskas walks through Peter's sermon at Pentecost to help us better understand who Jesus is and why his life, death, and resurrection matter. The sermon shows that while God was at work through Jesus, our sin made the cross necessary. When the crowd realizes this, they ask what to do next, and Peter calls them to repent, be baptized, and follow Jesus. For us today, the invitation is to keep turning to Jesus, enjoy the presence of the Holy Spirit, and live as worshipers and witnesses.

Sam Mills is an innovative and wildly creative writer, who has always wanted to publish books. She's written non-fiction books, 'Uneven', 'The Fragments of my Father', and others, also crossover, genre-bending novels like 'Blackout', and 'The Quiddity of Will Self'. She's written for The Guardian, The Independent, the New Humanist and more, along with running 'Dodo Ink', a small indie press that publishes daring and difficult literary fiction.Her new novel is 'The Watermark'. Inspired by 'Inception', it tells the story of Rachel and Jaime, who become trapped by Augustus Fate, a once-lauded novelist, in his latest creation. They must find their way back home through a labyrinthine network of novels, flitting from a harsh Russian Winter, to Victorian Oxford, from a utopian metropolis to an AI-dominated future.We discuss why she likes the romance of being a writer, and that helps her deal with the instability of it. Also, you can hear how she creeps close to the line of burnout, yet knows exactly when to pull back. Sam shares pen opinions, and how she's developed the cafe-writer's sense of when to leave.Get a copy of the book at uk.bookshop.org/shop/writersroutineThis week's episode is sponsored by the 'Quick Books Reviews Podcast', take a listen wherever you get your shows.Support 'Writer's Routine' -patreon.com/writersroutineko-fi.com/writersroutineSubscribe to the newsletter - writersroutine.substack.com@writerspodwritersroutine.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A humble seahorse reconstructs his form by studying his fellow fish, and emerges as the most magnificent creature to grace the sea. Genre: Mythology, Fable   Excerpt:"We are only one of many different kinds of horses," his mother said. "And all of us, the ones who fly through storm, the ones who canter on land, the ones who wander in dreams, we all came from one place, the sea. We all came from the first horses, who dwelt in the sea, and dwell there still, though they haven't been seen in many ages." The Wheel of Fiction Turns. What did it land on this time?Each Season 9 story follows a theme chosen by the Wheel of Fiction. Thirteen spokes. Eight are the themes from previous seasons. One is "Turn Again." One is a wild card. And three are covered in question marks and will be revealed when the wheel lands on them. This episode landed on REVISITATION. See a story trailer and a (satisfying) video of the wheel turning here: The Last Magnificent Seahorse Find more stories and episodes featuring this theme here: Year of Revisitation.   SEAHORSE MERCH!Interested in merch, like mugs and notebooks, featuring the seahorse (hippocampus)?Here's the direct link:Bubblegum Pink and Blue Hippocampus merch on TeePublic   Please visit my Store page for up-to-date info on where you can buy merchandise featuring my artwork: STORYFEATHER STORE   The Store page also has sign-up forms for my two email newsletters: Storyfeather Gazette (if you'd like to keep up with the fiction I create)Fictioneer's Field Guide (if you'd like writing tips and guidance from me)  Choose what you want. (Either way, you're choosing high jinks.)   MY FIRST BOOK (yay)Ever wonder how I've gotten all these hundreds of stories written? I have a method. And I talk all about it in my book called Fictioneer's Field Guide: A Game Plan for Writing Short Stories. It's now available from Amazon as an eBook, paperback, and hardcover. You can also get there from my Store page: STORYFEATHER STORE   CREDITSStory: "The Last Magnificent Seahorse" Copyright © 2022 by Nila L. Patel Narration, Episode Art, Editing, and Production: Nila L. Patel   Music:"Exploration Mystical Place (loop 1)" by ALBERT FERNANDEZ (Intro & Outro)"Abstract Vision #5" by ANDREW SITKOV (Outro)   Music by ALBERT FERNANDEZ (Audio Alchemist, Potion Studio)"Exploration Cave (loop)""Exploration Forest of Magic""Exploration Mystery (loop)""Exploration Mystical Place (loop 1)""Humorous Exploration (loop)""Battle 1 normal (loop)""Humorous Stealth (loop)" Music by ANDREW SITKOV (MuzStation Game Music)"Secrets of Kingdom""Magic Within"  All tracks are part of a music and sound effects bundles I purchased from Humble Bundle and sourced from GameDev Market.   Music by Albert Fernandez and Andrew Sitkov is licensed from GameDev MarketSound effects from AudioJungle, GameDevMarket, and Soundly (through Hindenburg)Changes made to the musical tracks? Just cropping of some to align with my narration. Find more music by Albert Fernandez and Andrew Sitkov at gamedevmarket.net Find more stories by Nila at storyfeather.com   Episode Art Description:Digital drawing. Floating in water among small bubbles, the mythical creature known as the hippocampus. Seen from left side, the front half looks like a horse, except that the mane is replaced with a spiny dorsal fin, and the hooves are replaced by fins. The forelimbs appear to be in mid-gallop. The back half appears like a fish with fins protruding from the sides. The tail arcs toward the front. The creature's coloring is vivid and shimmering like a fish. Watermark of "Storyfeather" along middle of back.

This week, Benjamin Applebee continues our 4-part series called "Sent Ones", which is a series on evangelism and how we can create a burning passion for the lost! After his message, Pastor Benjamin is joined by Pastor Randy Iaocvetta as they answer your questions live in service... all while eating spicy hot wings!Want to learn more about Watermark?Visit: https://watermarkoc.com/We would love to start a conversation with you!

Have you experienced discrepancies between your spiritual life and what you read in Acts? While the early church was unique in many ways, believers still have the same Spirit that we read about in Scripture. In this episode, Emma Dotter and Kylen Perry, Watermark's Executive Director of The Porch, explain who that Spirit is and how he works in our lives and churches today. Then Emma Dotter and Pastor and Author, Kirk Freeman, spend time unpacking the implications of Acts 2, a passage that originally gave unity and clarity to the early church rather than the division it causes now. Listen to learn how to fight for unity despite having different convictions from other believers around you.// ADDITIONAL VERSES MENTIONED: Acts 5: 3-4; Matthew 28: 19-20; John 15: 26; Ephesians 4: 30; Genesis 41; 1: 1-2; 2: 7; Acts 9: 31; Galatians 5: 16-18; John 16: 8; Titus 3: 5 // RESOURCES FOR FURTHER STUDY:  Watermark's doctrinal statement on the Holy Spirit: (https://www.watermark.org/about/full-doctrinal-statement) Wrestling with your convictions on the Holy Spirit? (https://www.watermark.org/blog/agree-to-disagree-how-to-handle-essentials-convictions-opinions)  Threads: Weaving Discipleship into the Fabric of Your Life by Kirk Freeman (https://www.amazon.com/Threads-Weaving-disciple-making-fabric/dp/B0CNKXBMZN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2NO5MWLVB07S8&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.ZVudhJOVXAMUTMHuv23neg.C3TzzhQ2E5uDMl6s3xyf1E7buSOBMJVB0KOpH8OwN1o&dib_tag=se&keywords=threads+kirk+freeman+book&qid=1766445136&sprefix=threads+kirk+%2Caps%2C150&sr=8-1 A Spirit-Led Church: Sermon series from Watermark Community Church (https://www.watermark.org/series/1471) Learn more about The Porch, Watermark's young adult ministry: https://www.theporch.live  // RELATED JOIN THE JOURNEY EPISODES:  “S4:263 – Introduction to the book of Acts” (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...) Intro to the book of Acts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey/id1600151923?i=1000735019898  “S1:191 – What if my possession of the Spirit feels mundane?” (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey/id1600151923?i=1000580618106) // WHAT IS JOIN THE JOURNEY? Join The Journey is a realistic daily Bible reading plan that helps followers of Jesus at Watermark Community Church and beyond enjoy abiding in Jesus together. Join The Journey Jr. is designed to help parents guide their kids in Bible reading through interactive and age-specific lessons. In 2026, we're studying the book of Acts—one passage per week. For another year, teaching on Sunday will align with each week's passage. Then, for the next six days, we'll return to the same passage with fresh focus, exploring insights about who God is and how we can enjoy him more deeply. Monday through Saturday, we'll approach the same passage from a different perspective each day—whether observation, interpretation, prayer, or another spiritual practice—to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for God's Word. Then, watch or listen to the video podcast to tackle the week's toughest verses and discover key historical, theological, and practical insights. Daily Bible lessons for adults: https://jointhejourney.com Daily Bible lessons for parents and families: https://jointhejourney.com/jr Weekly Bible podcast for kids: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...  // MORE RESOURCES FROM JOIN THE JOURNEY:  Digital Bible study resources: https://jointhejourney.com/resources Previous years' print curriculum: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Waterma... Contact the Join The Journey team: jointhejourney@watermark.org  

Separation is often presented as a healthy solution when marriage feels hard—but is it really? In this episode, the More Than Roommates team explores what separation actually means, why it so often leads to divorce, when it may be necessary, and how couples can pursue healing and restoration with Biblical wisdom and community.Discussion Questions:1- Why do you think separation so often leads to divorce rather than healing?2- How does selfishness subtly show up in your marriage during hard seasons?3- What role does community currently play in helping you protect and strengthen your marriage?4- How could you better “water your own grass” in this season?Resources:Episode 83 Divorce part 1Episode 84 Divorce part 2Episode 127 Healing from Sexual Abuse  Watermark statement on marriage and divorce

This week, Benjamin Applebee continues our 4-part series called "Sent Ones", which is a series on evangelism and how we can create a burning passion for the lost!Want to learn more about Watermark?Visit: https://watermarkoc.com/We would love to start a conversation with you!

"In today's Conversations for the Journey, host and Care Director Wes Butler leads us in praying through Acts 2:1-21. In this episode, we pray for 3 things seen in Acts 2:1-21—we thank God for the gift of the Holy Spirit and ask him to give us a sensitivity to the Holy Spirit, that the fruit of the Spirit would be evident in our lives, and that we would revere God's Word. If you would like to submit a prayer request to the Watermark prayer team, you can do so at https://www.watermark.org/prayer You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df"

In Sunday's message from Acts 2, we were reminded that while Pentecost was a unique moment in history, the work of the Holy Spirit did not stop there. Acts 2 shows us a church alive by the Spirit—marked by a shared enjoyment of God's presence, an urgency for mission, and a sense of awe at what God is doing.

In Sunday's message from Acts 2, we were reminded that while Pentecost was a unique moment in history, the work of the Holy Spirit did not stop there. Acts 2 shows us a church alive by the Spirit—marked by a shared enjoyment of God's presence, an urgency for mission, and a sense of awe at what God is doing.

A turtle of great renown receives a great gift, and with that gift, a terrible burden no other turtle has ever known. Genre: Fable, Mythology   Excerpt:When Gaharalil slipped into the water, he was seized by a sensation. It rippled across the surface of his body, his skin. The spark of sensation bolted through his skin to his muscles, his belly, his heart. It flooded him with joy. It raised him up like a cresting wave. He floated in the sensation to the water's surface and beyond, up into the heavens, where the stars dwelt and all was wonder.   The Wheel of Fiction Turns. What did it land on this time?Each Season 9 story follows a theme chosen by the Wheel of Fiction. Thirteen spokes. Eight are the themes from previous seasons. One is "Turn Again." One is a wild card. And three are covered in question marks and will be revealed when the wheel lands on them. This episode landed on ELEMENTS. See a story trailer and a (satisfying) video of the wheel turning here: Gaharalil Find more stories and episodes featuring this theme here: Year of Elements.   TURTLE MERCH!Interested in merch, like mugs and notebooks, featuring the turtle?Here's the direct link: Smiling Turtle With Purple Flowers merch on TeePublic   Please visit my Store page for up-to-date info on where you can buy merchandise featuring my artwork: STORYFEATHER STORE The Store page also has sign-up forms for my two email newsletters: Storyfeather Gazette (if you'd like to keep up with the fiction I create)Fictioneer's Field Guide (if you'd like writing tips and guidance from me)  Choose what you want. (Either way, you're choosing high jinks.)   MY FIRST BOOK (yay)Ever wonder how I've gotten all these hundreds of stories written? I have a method. And I talk all about it in my book called Fictioneer's Field Guide: A Game Plan for Writing Short Stories. It's now available from Amazon as an eBook, paperback, and hardcover.You can also get there from my Store page: STORYFEATHER STORE CREDITSStory: "Gaharalil" Copyright © 2022 by Nila L. PatelNarration, Episode Art, Editing, and Production: Nila L. Patel  Music:"Adventure Track #1 (looped)" by ANDREW SITKOV (Intro & Outro)"Abstract Vision #5" by ANDREW SITKOV (Outro)   Music by TRG Banks"Lake in the woods""The silver bus""Father Green""Packed lunch""Horse ride 4""Interchange""Great Aunt Henrietta"  Musci by ANDREW SITKOV (MuzStation Game Music)"Scary Theme #3""Medieval Track #1""Medieval Theme 2""Adventure Track #1 (looped)" Tracks by Andrew Sitkov are part of a music and sound effects bundles I purchased from Humble Bundle and sourced from GameDev Market. Music by Andrew Sitkov is licensed from GameDev MarketMusic by TRG Banks is licensed under CC0 1.0 UniversalSound effects from AudioJungle and GameDevMarket Changes made to the musical tracks? Just cropping of some to align with my narration.  Find more music by Andrew Sitkov at gamedevmarket.netFind more music by TRG Banks at freemusicarchive.org/music/TRG_BanksFind more stories by Nila at storyfeather.com   Episode Art Description:Digital drawing. A turtle seen in left profile facing left, resting on a patch of green earth at the edge of a body of a water. The forelimbs are visible. The turtle's mouth is open wide. Bunches of purple flowers with five petals surround the turtle. The sky is bright and bare of clouds. Watermark of "Storyfeather" along the turtle's left forelimb.

Today, Pastor Benjamin is joined by Pastor Bucky Dennis as they answer your questions from this last Sunday's service!Have a question about the series, Jesus, or church in general? Leave an anonymous question at: generationsoc.com/questions!Want to learn more about Watermark?Visit: https://watermarkoc.com/We would love to start a conversation with you!

What was an apostle? Do apostles still exist? Why does the ascension of Jesus matter? In this episode, Emma Dotter unpacks the definition, role, and qualifications of an apostle and why Judas needed to be replaced. Then, Watermark's Resident Theologian, Garrett Wikle, joins to explain the doctrine of the ascension, how it shapes our understanding of the rest of Scripture, and why it's significant forfollowers of Jesus today.   ADDITIONAL VERSES MENTIONED:  Ephesians 2:20; Acts 2:43; 1 Corinthians 9:1; Luke 24:50-53, 49; Matthew 26; 28; Daniel 7; 1 Corinthians 15:24-25; 2 Corinthians 5:10; Ephesians 1:20; 2:6; 4:8-11; Philippians 2:5-11; Colossians 3:1-4; Hebrews; 1 Peter 3:21-22; Revelation 1; 4-5  RESOURCES FOR FURTHER STUDY:  Acts of the Risen Lord: https://a.co/d/bUChMSg  The Bible Project: https://bibleproject.com/videos/acts-1-12/ GotQuestions: https://www.gotquestions.org/apostleship.html   RELATED JOIN THE JOURNEY EPISODES:  - S4:263 – Introduction to the book of Acts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey/id1600151923?i=1000735019898  - S1:190 – How do I see the Spirit working in my life? https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey/id1600151923?i=1000580392361   WHAT IS JOIN THE JOURNEY?  Join The Journey is a realistic daily Bible reading plan that helps followers of Jesus at Watermark Community Church and beyond enjoy abiding in Jesus together.  Daily Bible lessons for adults: https://www.jointhejourney.com  Daily Bible lessons for parents and families: https://www.jointhejourney.com/jr/7957-what-is-real Weekly Bible podcast for kids: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898   Contact the Join The Journey Team: JoinTheJourney@watermark.org  

This week, Benjamin Applebee begins our brand new 4-part series called "Sent Ones", which is a series on evangelism and how we can create a burning passion for the lost! After his message, Pastor Benjamin is joined by Pastor Bucky Dennis as they answer your questions live in service... all while eating spicy hot wings!Want to learn more about Watermark?Visit: https://watermarkoc.com/We would love to start a conversation with you!

This week, Benjamin Applebee begins our brand new 4-part series called "Sent Ones", which is a series on evangelism and how we can create a burning passion for the lost!Want to learn more about Watermark?Visit: https://watermarkoc.com/We would love to start a conversation with you!

The unlikely encounter between a river fisher bird and a slug of the sea inspire both to strike a bargain to explore the powers and limits of their forms. Genre: Fable   Excerpt: Halceyx cocked her head. "I've never encountered a poisonous river slug before. This is most adventurous." "I am not a river slug. I am a slug of the sea. I am called Irsid. And I have come to the river to explore."   The Wheel of Fiction Turns. What did it land on this time?Each Season 9 story follows a theme chosen by the Wheel of Fiction. Thirteen spokes. Eight are the themes from previous seasons. One is "Turn Again." One is a wild card. And three are covered in question marks and will be revealed when the wheel lands on them. This episode landed on PROMPTS. See a story trailer and a (satisfying) video of the wheel turning here: River Fisher and Blue Dragon Find more stories and episodes featuring this theme here: Year of Prompts.   MY FIRST BOOK (yay)Ever wonder how I've gotten all these hundreds of stories written?  I have a method. And I talk all about it in my book called Fictioneer's Field Guide: A Game Plan for Writing Short Stories. It's now available from Amazon as an eBook, paperback, and hardcover. You can also get there from my Store page: STORYFEATHER STORE   The Store page also has sign-up forms for my two email newsletters: Storyfeather Gazette (if you'd like to keep up with the fiction I create)Fictioneer's Field Guide (if you'd like writing tips and guidance from me)  Choose what you want. (Either way, you're choosing high jinks.)   MERCH!Interested in merch, like mugs and notebooks, featuring my artwork?Please visit my Store page for info on where you can buy: STORYFEATHER STORE   CREDITSStory: "River Fisher and Blue Dragon" Copyright © 2022 by Nila L. PatelNarration, Episode Art, Editing, and Production:  Nila L. Patel   Music:"Spinning Tavern" by JONATHAN SHAW (Intro & Outro)"Abstract Vision #5" by ANDREW SITKOV (Outro) Music by JONATHAN SHAW"Checking Inventory""Afternoon Chat""In Tranquil Spring""A Tale of Wind""Out of Time""Spinning Tavern""A Tale of Water""Cold Sanctuary""A Tale of Peace"   All these tracks are part of a music and sound effects bundles I purchased from Humble Bundle and sourced from GameDev Market.   Music by Jonathan Shaw and Andrew Sitkov is licensed from GameDev MarketSound effects from AudioJungle and GameDevMarketChanges made to the musical tracks? Just cropping of some to align with my narration.   Find more music by Jonathan Shaw and Andrew Sitkov at gamedevmarket.netFind more music by Jonathan Shaw at jshaw.co.ukFind more stories by Nila at storyfeather.com   Episode Art Description: Digital drawing. At center, a bird in right profile, head tilted up, beak slightly parted and holding a slug-like creature. The bird is perched on a patch of earth, at bottom left corner, along the shore of a river. At top of frame, glowing balls of light float through the air. The bird appears to be a river kingfisher of the Ceyx genus. The bird bears feathers of many different colors. The front half of the slug has the shape of a garden slug, with streaks of many colors. The slug's eyes are directed toward the bird. The bottom half of the slug appears like a blue dragon sea slug with blue coloring and plume-like appendages. Both animals are speckled with sparks of light. Watermark of "Storyfeather" along the bird's chest.

Merry Christmas Church Family and Happy New Year! Enjoy this year's Service at Home as Pastor Benjamin Applebee concludes our Advent Series and we prepare for the new year!Want to learn more about Watermark?Visit: https://watermarkoc.com/We would love to start a conversation with you!

"How should we understand John's vision in Revelation 21—what's new about the new creation, and how does it fulfill God's promises from the Old Testament? The climax of the vision is that God dwells with His people—‘they will be His people, and God Himself will be with them'. Why is this significant? Revelation 22 describes the river of life and the tree of life, which takes us back to Genesis. What's the significance of these images, and how do they show God's plan to fully reverse the curse? In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks with Watermark member, Cassidy Webber, about the final two chapters of the Bible, Revelation 21-22. In this final Year of the Word episode, Emma and Cassidy discuss how the end of Revelation ties to the very beginning of the BIble and reflect on how the Bible is one big story of God's love and redemption for mankind. Additional References: Genesis 1-2; John 1; Psalm 23 You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df"

"In Revelation 15–16, the seven bowls of God's wrath are poured out on the earth. How do we reconcile God's justice and wrath in these passages with His love and mercy? In Revelation 17, what does Babylon represent, both in the first-century world and for us today? In today's episode, Watermark Community Director, Katie Shemanske talks with Watermark member, Bobby Crotty about Revelation 15-17. Additional References: Matthew 24:15 You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df"

On Sunday, December 28, we won't gather at the Dallas Campus for our usual services—but church is still on. Church at Home Sunday is your chance to slow down, gather your people, start the new year prayerfully, and get a taste of what church was like in the early first-century Church. In the video below, you will be guided through Watermark's 10 markers and be given time to reflect with your group on each.

"Revelation 12 describes the woman, the dragon, and the child. How should we understand this symbolic story, and what does it reveal about the bigger spiritual battle behind history? In Revelation 13, John sees two beasts—one from the sea and one from the earth. How would the first-century church have understood these images, and how should we recognize the ongoing reality of false powers and counterfeit worship today? Revelation 14 contrasts those who follow the beast with those who follow the Lamb. What does this teach us about endurance and what it really means to remain faithful to Jesus? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark member Nathan Wagnon talk about Revelation 12-14 and unpack the imagery that is found in these chapters. You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df"

On Sunday, December 28, we won't gather at the Dallas Campus for our usual services—but church is still on. Church at Home Sunday is your chance to slow down, gather your people, start the new year prayerfully, and get a taste of what church was like in the early first-century Church. In the video below, you will be guided through Watermark's 10 markers and be given time to reflect with your group on each. We're expectant for all God has ahead in 2026! Let's finish the year thankful, open-handed, and ready for what's next.

Merry Christmas, Church Family! Pastor Benjamin Applebee continues our series called "Holy Holy Holy" with his Christmas Eve Sermon!Want to learn more about Watermark?Visit: https://watermarkoc.com/We would love to start a conversation with you!

On the verge of death, a penultimate god leaves behind a terrible enemy and an unexpected legacy. Genre: Mythology   Excerpt: "If the tunnels aren't dangerous, why would anyone close them on purpose?" "I didn't say they weren't dangerous."  I nodded. Of course. Knowledge was dangerous. And knowledge was what we would find at the end of this tunnel.   The Wheel of Fiction Turns. What did it land on this time?Each Season 9 story follows a theme chosen by the Wheel of Fiction. Thirteen spokes. Eight are the themes from previous seasons. One is "Turn Again." One is a wild card. And three are covered in question marks and will be revealed when the wheel lands on them. This episode landed on CREATURES. See a story trailer and a (satisfying) video of the wheel turning here: Silent Serpent Under Sea Find more stories and episodes featuring this theme here: Year of Creatures.   SERPENT MERCH!Interested in merch, like mugs and notebooks, featuring the serpent?Here's the direct link:Coiled Green Sea Serpent merch on TeePublic(You'll land on the t-shirt, but you can scroll down a bit for more stuff.)  Please visit my Store page for up-to-date info on where you can buy merchandise featuring my artwork: STORYFEATHER STORE   MY FIRST BOOK (yay)Ever wonder how I've gotten all these hundreds of stories written?  I have a method. And I talk all about it in my book called Fictioneer's Field Guide: A Game Plan for Writing Short Stories. It's available from Amazon as an eBook, paperback, and hardcover. You can also get there from my Store page: STORYFEATHER STORE   The Store page also has sign-up forms for my two email newsletters: Storyfeather Gazette (if you'd like to keep up with the fiction I create)Fictioneer's Field Guide (if you'd like writing tips and guidance from me)  Choose what you want. (Either way, you're choosing high jinks.)   CREDITSStory: "Silent Serpent Under Sea" Copyright © 2022 by Nila L. PatelNarration, Episode Art, Editing, and Production:  Nila L. Patel   Music:"Immortals" by NICHOLAS JEUDY (Intro)"Haven" by NICHOLAS JEUDY (Outro)"Abstract Vision #5" by ANDREW SITKOV (Outro)   Music by NICHOLAS JEUDY (Dark Fantasy Studio)"Secret water""Emblem""Runes" "Immortals" "The ocean takes it all""Dark lord""Scroll of the wind walker""To Falgalown""A last prayer""Dark fields""Haven"   All these tracks are part of a music and sound effects bundles I purchased from Humble Bundle and sourced from GameDev Market.   Music by Nicholas Jeudy and Andrew Sitkov is licensed from GameDev MarketSound effects from AudioJungle and GameDevMarketChanges made to the musical tracks? Just cropping of some to align with my narration.   Find more music by Nicholas Jeudy and Andrew Sitkov at gamedevmarket.net Find more stories by Nila at storyfeather.com   Episode Art Description: Digital drawing. A sea serpent, facing forward, floating in water. At right, near bottom, the head is directed downward. A crown of spiny fins extend from the back of the head and around the face. The serpent's body extends up and then arcs down and loops to the left.  The end of the tail is directed up to upper left corner and ends in spiny fins. Fins also arc along the top third of the serpent's back, and one set closer to the tail. Some of the scales bear glowing marks that appear like characters or letters of an unreadable language. Vertical image is made square with borders at left and right with bubbles. Watermark of "Storyfeather" along right side of serpent's head.

This week, Pastor Benjamin Applebee continues our Advent Series called "Holy, Holy, Holy"!Want to learn more about Watermark?Visit: https://watermarkoc.com/We would love to start a conversation with you!

The Ace of Pumpkins is invited as the guest of honor to a peculiar dinner at the High House of Clovers. Genre: Fairy Tale   Excerpt: The Pumpkin Ace did not know whether to expect favor and praise or horrific humiliations. She only knew that any who left the table may not return. She only knew that the price for leaving the table before her host might be a terrible one. Might be. Her triumph or her doom depended upon the whims and fancies of her esteemed host, the King of the House of Clovers…   The Wheel of Fiction Turns. What did it land on this time?Each Season 9 story follows a theme chosen by the Wheel of Fiction. Thirteen spokes. Eight are the themes from previous seasons. One is "Turn Again." One is a wild card. And three are covered in question marks and will be revealed when the wheel lands on them. This episode landed on WILD CARD. See a story trailer and a (satisfying) video of the wheel turning here: The Ace of Pumpkins   MY FIRST BOOK (yay)Ever wonder how I've gotten all these hundreds of stories written?  I have a method. And I talk all about it in my book called Fictioneer's Field Guide: A Game Plan for Writing Short Stories. It's now available from Amazon as an eBook, paperback, and hardcover. You can also get there from my Store page: STORYFEATHER STORE   The Store page also has sign-up forms for my two email newsletters: Storyfeather Gazette (if you'd like to keep up with the fiction I create)Fictioneer's Field Guide (if you'd like writing tips and guidance from me)  Choose what you want. (Either way, you're choosing high jinks.)   MERCH!Interested in merch, like mugs and notebooks, featuring my artwork?Please visit my Store page for info on where you can buy: STORYFEATHER STORE   CREDITSStory: "The Ace of Pumpkins" Copyright © 2022 by Nila L. PatelNarration, Episode Art, Editing, and Production:  Nila L. Patel   Music:"Jesters dance" by NICHOLAS JEUDY (Intro & Outro)"Abstract Vision #5" by ANDREW SITKOV (Outro)   Music by JONATHAN SHAW"Midnight Creeping""Cold Sanctuary""Lingering Evil""Encounter of Misdeeds"   Music by NICHOLAS JEUDY (Dark Fantasy Studio)"Seasons""Jesters dance""Unsolved""Whispers" "Inspector""Of sun and sand""The bard" All these tracks are part of a music and sound effects bundles I purchased from Humble Bundle and sourced from GameDev Market. Music by Nicholas Jeudy, Jonathan Shaw, and Andrew Sitkov is licensed from GameDev MarketSound effects from AudioJungle, GameDevMarket, and Soundly (through Hindenburg) Changes made to the musical tracks? Just cropping of some to align with my narration.   Find more music by Nicholas Jeudy, Jonathan Shaw, and Andrew Sitkov at gamedevmarket.net Find more music by Jonathan Shaw at jshaw.co.ukFind more stories by Nila at storyfeather.com   Episode Art Description: Digital drawing. At center, a woman facing forward, seen from waist up, sitting at a table. Her face is in three-quarters profile facing right. She looks forward with right brow and the right corner of her mouth raised. Her bent right arm rests on the table in front of her. Her left hand is raised beside her, holding a fork with a piece of food on the tines. On the table in front of her is a plate full of food. In front of the food is a name card with partially visible letters that read "Ace of Pumpkins." At left is a small hourglass and two wine glasses. At right is a folded napkin wrapped in a band and a bowl filled with liquid, and with flowers, flower petals, and a bundle of herbs floating within. Watermark of "Storyfeather" along outside of the woman's upper right arm.

Give us about fifteen minutes daily, and we will give you all the local news, sports, weather, and events you can handle.   SPONSORS: Many thanks to our sponsors… Annapolis Subaru, the SPCA of Anne Arundel County, MacMedics, and  Hospice of the Chesapeake.  Today... A shooting investigation in Annapolis leads to an arrest with help from a regional fugitive task force, AACPS names its principal of the year with a spotlight on equity-focused leadership, Galway Bay's beloved Irish Egg Nog is back in town for holiday hosting season, and Watermark's Jolly Express cruises return to Spa Creek with cocoa, carols, and a festive spin on seeing Annapolis from the water. Stick around and we'll walk you through it all on today's DNB! Link to daily news recap newsletter: https://forms.aweber.com/form/87/493412887.htm Trevor from  Annapolis Makerspace is here with your Maker Minutes! DAILY NEWSLETTER LINK: https://forms.aweber.com/form/87/493412887.htm The Eye On Annapolis Daily News Brief is produced every Monday through Friday at 6:00 am and available wherever you get your podcasts and also on our social media platforms--All Annapolis and Eye On Annapolis (FB) and @eyeonannapolis (X) NOTE: For hearing-impaired subscribers, a full transcript is available on Eye On Annapolis.

"Hebrews 1 begins by saying that God has spoken finally and fully in His Son, who is greater than angels. How does the supremacy of Christ fuel our mission to make Him known among the nations? How do the warnings about perseverance in Hebrews 3-4 encourage us to keep going in difficult ministry contexts and not give up? How do you see spiritual maturity tied to missional living—both in sending people and in equipping them to disciple others? The book of Hebrews shows that Christ is ‘better'—better than angels, Moses, and even the high priest. How do the first six chapters begin to build this case, and why does that matter for our faith and mission today? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark member, Andrew Templeton talk about Hebrews 1-6, setting up the book and talking about how the themes intersect with missions and discipleship. You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df"

This week, Pastor Bucky Dennis continues our Advent Series called "Holy, Holy, Holy" with his sermon called "Comfort, Comfort My People"!Want to learn more about Watermark?Visit: https://watermarkoc.com/We would love to start a conversation with you!

"In Titus 1, Paul lays out qualifications for elders. How do these compare to 1 Timothy 3, and why does Paul emphasize godly character so strongly in the context of Crete? In Titus 2:11–14, how does Paul connect grace—not law—as the motivator for holy living? How do good works flow out of salvation, and how do we guard against turning them into legalism? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark member Noah Mills discuss the book of Titus and explore teh qualifications of church elders, what it means to have godly character, and how we can guard our hearts against legalism while doing good works. If you are interested in the Watermark Institute, check it out here: https://www.watermarkresources.com/ministries/institute You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df"

"How does 2 Timothy 2:2 capture the New Testament vision for discipleship and multiplication? 2 Timothy 3:16–17 says all Scripture is God-breathed and useful for teaching, correcting, and training. How should we understand the inspiration of Scripture here, and what does it mean for how the church uses the Bible? At the end of the letter, Paul says he has fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith. What do we learn from Paul's perspective at the end of his life about perseverance, faithfulness, and hope? In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks with Watermark member, Bobby Durning about 2 Timothy. Bobby talks about the differences between first and second Timothy and what Paul teaches about discipleship within the Church. To serve with Join The Journey: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/join-the-journey To read Watermark's belief statement on the Bible, check it out here: https://www.watermark.org/about/full-doctrinal-statement You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df"

"In 1 Timothy 1, Paul urges Timothy to confront false teaching and hold on to sound doctrine. As an elder, how do you see the connection between guarding doctrine and shepherding people? In 1 Timothy 3, Paul lays out qualifications for elders and deacons. Does Paul emphasize character over giftedness, and how do you see these qualities play out in real church leadership today? What does 1 Timothy 6:6 mean for leaders and for the church family as a whole in a world that's so driven by success and possessions? In today's episode, Director of Care ministries, Wes Butler, talks with Watermark elder, Todd Anders about 1 Timothy and leadership within the church. Todd helps us understand Paul's teaching on church eldership and how we implement these teachings in the church today. You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df"

This week, Benjamin Applebee continues our Advent Series called "Holy, Holy, Holy" with his sermon called "Christmas & the Christian Nation"!Want to learn more about Watermark?Visit: https://watermarkoc.com/We would love to start a conversation with you!

"In Colossians 1:15–20, Paul gives this sweeping picture of Christ as the image of the invisible God and the one in whom all things hold together. How would Paul's original audience have heard that, and why is it so important for us to grasp today? What do we know about the false teaching in Colossae—and how do we discern the difference between helpful wisdom and deceptive philosophy today? What does Paul mean by ""put off the old self"", and how does it practically shape the way Christians live in community? In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks with Watermark member, Amber Hapka about the book of Colossians. Amber gives us the context of Colossians and unpacks how we can be discerners of wisdom, living in ways that honor the Lord. You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df"

"Paul writes Philippians from prison yet talks constantly about joy (Phil. 1:12–18; 4:4). How do we reconcile joy with suffering, and what did Paul mean by rejoicing in the Lord when his circumstances were so hard? How should we understand this ‘kenosis'in Philippians 2:5-11—and why does Paul root a call to humility in this deep theology? How do we keep from misunderstanding or misusing Philippians 4:13, and what did Paul actually mean in context? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark member Ryan Garrahan talk about the book of Philippians. Ryan gives us the context of Philippians and helps us see how we can study this book accurately, considering the context, to understand the theological truths we find in this book. Additional References: Acts 16; John 1:1; Hebrews 4:15; To research more about kenosis, check out these Got Questions articles: https://www.gotquestions.org/kenoticism-kenotic-theology.html https://www.gotquestions.org/kenosis.html You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df"

"How should we understand the language of election and predestination in Ephesians 1 and what was Paul's purpose in emphasizing it to the Ephesian believers? How does Ephesians 2:8-10 balance God's work and our good works, and why is that balance so central to Paul's message? In today's episode, Director of Equipping, Chris Sherrod, and Watermark member Robin Clark talk about Ephesians 1-4. Robin provides us with the context of the book of Ephesians and tackles the language around predestination, helping us understand the different positions on this theological topic. To learn more about the positions of predestination, check out these Got Questions articles: https://www.gotquestions.org/predestination.html https://www.gotquestions.org/predestination-vs-free-will.html You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df"

"Paul says the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds. What does this mean in practice for the church and individual believers today? Why does Paul boast in weakness and how should Christians today think about strength, weakness, and God's power being made perfect in weakness? How should believers today approach this kind of self-examination without falling into either pride or unhealthy doubt? In today's episode, Emma Dotter discusses 2 Corinthians 10-13 with Watermark member, Jacob Arrington. Together, they discuss what weapons of warfare we are facing today, what the thorn in Paul's flesh was, and how we can understand our own weaknesses. You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df"

"Paul says God comforts us in our affliction so we can comfort others. How does this shape a biblical view of suffering—and how is it different from how our culture thinks about comfort and hardship? How should Christians today understand the glory of the new covenant, and what does it practically mean to be ministers of it? What does it mean for believers to live as ambassadors for Christ in a divided world? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark member, Casey Uphues discuss 2 Corinthians 1-5, glorifying the Lord by walking on our freedom and reconciliation. Casey challenges us to think about what we are not allowing God to use and what we might be holding onto rather than surrendering to the Lord. If you're a woman in Dallas, join us for Women's Bible Study! https://www.watermark.org/ministries/womens-bible-study Take a listen to some of Casey's former episodes! Job 21: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/s3-067-job-21/id1600151923?i=1000651758829 Exodus 17-18: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/s2-059-exodus-17-18/id1600151923?i=1000605527493 Acts 10: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/episode-199-acts-10/id1600151923?i=1000581760476 You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df"

"How should churches today balance valuing every member's gift while also pursuing order in worship, especially when it comes to gifts like tongues and prophecy? Paul places the famous ‘love chapter' right in the middle of his teaching on spiritual gifts. What does this show us about the relationship between love and the use of our gifts in the church? How does the bodily resurrection of Jesus—and our future resurrection—shape the way Christians live right now? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark member Laura Buchelt talk about 1 Corinthians 12-16, and dive into how we ought to understand Paul's teaching on the gifts of the Holy Spirit. To learn more about the spiritual gifts, listen to this message by T.A.: https://www.watermark.org/message/10670-the-gifts-of-tongues-prophecy-and-healing-1-corinthians-14 You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df"

"How should we understand Paul's counsel in chapter 7 about staying single ‘because of the present distress'? In chapters 8–10, Paul talks about food offered to idols, liberty, and not causing others to stumble. How do these principles guide us in modern issues where Christians disagree on gray areas? How should the church today approach communion with the reverence and unity Paul calls for? In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks with Watermark member, Callie Nixon, about 1 Corinthians 7-11 and discuss the topics of singleness, marraige, living as an encouragement to others, and partaking in communion with reverence. Callie reminds us that these chapters reflect the love Christ has for us as we are instructed for right living with him. To learn about Watermark's position on Marriage, Divorce, and Remarriage: https://assets.ctfassets.net/hw5pse7y1ojx/1lNURXianWxMiOPnvJ9vLn/d070130ff200b68411cf3c487764a4f4/Marriage__Divorce__Remarriage.pdf To listen to T.A.'s teaching on Marriage, Divorce, and Remarriage: https://www.watermark.org/message/12310-marriage-divorce-and-remarriage-biblical-love-in-marriage-part-2 You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df"

"What does Paul say about finding our identity and value in Christ alone? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark member Ryan Nixon talk about 1 Corinthians 1-6. Ryan gives us some background to the book of 1 Corinthians and share the purpose of Paul's letter. Ryan then focuses on 1 Corinthians 4, reflecting on our Gospel identity and what should determine the value of our identity. To purchase The Freedom of Self-Forgetfulness by Tim Keller: https://a.co/d/0s4L4Qi You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df"

"How does Romans 15:5 speak into the challenges of unity across cultural, ethnic, and generational differences in the church today? What can we learn from Paul's missionary vision about how the church should think about global missions today? What does the long list of names in Romans 16 teach us about Paul's ministry philosophy and the importance of ordinary Christians in God's mission? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark member Kari Perry talk about Romans 15-16 and unity, discerning a call to missions, and our role in God's mission. You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df Check out the Romans Study Sheet! https://assets.ctfassets.net/t8fa2ob1jrlx/5s8w4Q1S8mV7rYF9xDMTce/be2eb8581330ab60913b8af592a6a543/45-Romans-Study-Sheet.pdf"

Is God unjust? Are some people chosen to be God's children while others aren't? In this episode, Emma sits down with Watermark's Director of Equipping & Apologetics, Nathan Wagnon, to dive into the common misconceptions surrounding Romans 9.You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast:Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources!https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&am%E2%80%A6=&ccs_id=f18a9b0e-4396-46f5-b037-ac408bc939d6 Check out the Romans Study Sheet!https://assets.ctfassets.net/t8fa2ob1jrlx/5s8w4Q1S8mV7rYF9xDMTce/be2eb8581330ab60913b8af592a6a543/45-Romans-Study-Sheet.pdf

"In Romans 7, Paul describes the inner conflict of wanting to do good but struggling with sin. Is Paul speaking autobiographically as a mature Christian, describing life under the law before Christ, or something else? How should chapter 8 shape a Christian's daily confidence and hope, especially in seasons of suffering? In today's episode, Katie Shemanske and Watermark member, Raegan Driskell talk about Romans 7-9 and discuss the tension of pursing good while being saved by grace through faith and how we can rest in the knowledge of Christ's work for us. You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df Check out the Romans Study Sheet: https://assets.ctfassets.net/t8fa2ob1jrlx/5s8w4Q1S8mV7rYF9xDMTce/be2eb8581330ab60913b8af592a6a543/45-Romans-Study-Sheet.pdf"