Meeting with God Radio

Calling the elders is a faith-filled act of obedience that invites God’s power and grace into our suffering. In the first part of this sermon, Pastor Luke Ahrens teaches from James 5:14–15, showing how God works through the prayers of spiritual leaders to bring healing, forgiveness, and hope. We learn that calling the elders is a step of obedience, a means of receiving God’s grace, a way of seeking His greater purposes, and a path to praying in line with His will. Through humble dependence, we position ourselves to experience God's presence and power in profound ways.

In part two of this sermon, Pastor Luke Ahrens teaches how we can say with Paul, “I am content with weaknesses” for the sake of Christ. As we continue through 2 Corinthians 12:10, we learn that God meets us in suffering not to abandon us, but to strengthen us. We walk through five ways God uses trials: to grow us, to bless us through healing or resolution, to discipline us, to display His power, and to deepen our relationship with Him. When we embrace our weakness, we discover the surprising strength that comes only through Christ.

Contentment and suffering rarely go together--unless Christ is at the center. In the first part of this sermon from 2 Corinthians 12:10, Pastor Luke Ahrens teaches us how to embrace weakness as the very place God reveals His strength. We begin to understand that trials carry purpose: for our growth, for blessing, for correction, for His power, and ultimately for deeper relationship with Him. True strength comes not from escape but from surrender.

When we bring our lives before God, He meets us with healing, hope, and power. In the conclusion of this sermon from James 5:13–14, Pastor Luke Ahrens calls us to a lifestyle of vertical dependence through prayer, praise, and spiritual community. We see how God uses both suffering and celebration to draw us near and shape our hearts. A vertical encounter with Him isn’t occasional, it’s the heartbeat of a transformed life.

Suffering, joy, sickness—every moment is an open door to meet with God. In the first part of this sermon from James 5:13–14, Pastor Luke Ahrens teaches us that life’s circumstances are invitations into a vertical encounter with the Living God. We learn to seek His wisdom in each moment and discover that deep joy flows when we choose to look up instead of around. Turning vertical isn’t just a response, it’s the pathway to grace.

Religious anger was raging, but Jesus stood firm in truth and love. And He calls us to do the same. In the conclusion of this sermon from Luke 6:1–11, Pastor Luke Ahrens teaches us to respond to criticism not with defensiveness, but with grace. We complete the five steps to restoring a hard heart by learning to forgive our critics and represent Jesus with compassion and conviction. A soft heart, anchored in Christ, is a powerful witness in a hard world.

In this sermon from Luke 6:1–11, Pastor Luke Ahrens confronts the danger of religious pride and the hardness it breeds in our hearts. As Jesus heals on the Sabbath and challenges the Pharisees, we’re called to surrender to His authority and find true rest in Him. We begin learning five steps to restoring a hard heart—starting with yielding to Christ, receiving His restoration, and seeking forgiveness for a critical spirit. Jesus doesn’t just challenge cold religion; He invites us into a life marked by grace, healing, and mercy.

In the conclusion of this sermon from Luke 5:33–39, Pastor Luke shows how Jesus calls us to embrace the new life He brings, rather than cling to the old forms of religion. We see that Jesus doesn't patch up dead religion; He replaces it entirely. New wine demands new wineskins, and true disciples must be willing to surrender comfort for transformation. Jesus isn’t an addition to our old way of living; He is the beginning of something radically new.

In the first part of this sermon from Luke 5:33–39, Pastor Luke Ahrens teaches us how Jesus challenges the emptiness of ritualistic religion with the joy and power of His presence. We learn that while religion elevates customs and traditions, true faith lifts up Christ alone. Religion focuses on outward activity, but Jesus transforms the heart. And where religion invites comparison, Jesus calls us into deep affection for Him.

In the conclusion of this sermon, “Jesus over Legalistic Religion,” Pastor Luke Ahrens contrasts the compassionate call of Jesus with the cold resistance of the Pharisees. He defines legalism as a mindset that trusts in outward performance and self-righteousness rather than God's mercy and grace. Pastor Luke shows how legalism blinds us to our own need for repentance and hardens our hearts toward others. Through Jesus’ response, we’re reminded that true righteousness begins with humility and a deep awareness of our need for the Great Physician.

In the first part of this sermon, “Jesus over Legalistic Religion,” we watch Levi leave everything to follow Jesus. Then Levi throws a feast to introduce his friends to the Savior. Through Luke 5:27–32, we’re called to a life of unconditional surrender, unreserved outreach, and uncommon compassion. Jesus doesn’t wait for people to clean themselves up; He moves toward sinners with purpose and grace. As His followers, we’re invited to do the same.

In the conclusion of this sermon, “Authority to Forgive My Sins,” Pastor Luke Ahrens highlights the deeper implications of Jesus’ healing of the paralyzed man. He shows how this moment forces a decision about Jesus’ identity—He is not just a healer, but the Son of Man with divine authority to forgive sin. Pastor Luke also unpacks how God’s offer of total forgiveness reveals His heart toward us. The sermon closes with a powerful reminder that those who truly experience grace cannot help but glorify God.

In the first part of this sermon, “Authority to Forgive My Sins,” we witness a paralyzed man lowered through a roof and hear the shocking words from Jesus: “Your sins are forgiven.” As we walk through Luke 5:17–26, we learn that relentless faith draws the grace of God, and revealed grace opens our eyes to who Jesus truly is: the one with authority to forgive sin completely. This grace redefines God’s intentions toward us, offering total forgiveness and welcome. When we truly receive that grace, our only right response is to glorify God with awe and joy.

In the conclusion of this sermon, “Authority with Compassion,” Pastor Luke reflects on how Jesus not only heals the leper but sends him with purpose, pointing to a deeper spiritual cleansing. As the crowds press in, we see a Savior who meets real need yet retreats to pray—reminding us where true power and communion are found. The Spirit uses both the quiet and the chaos in our lives to help us see Jesus more clearly. And as our understanding grows, so does our desire to follow Him with greater trust and surrender.

In the first part of this sermon, “Authority with Compassion,” we come face-to-face with Jesus’ bold touch of a man full of leprosy—an act that reveals both His unmatched power and tender mercy. Luke 5:12–16 shows us that Jesus doesn’t shy away from our brokenness; He steps into it with healing authority. Whether we’re empty or full, the Spirit uses it all to deepen our understanding of Christ. And the clearer we see Him, the more we’re moved to follow Him with wholehearted devotion.

In the conclusion of “Divine Interruptions,” Pastor Luke Ahrens unpacks the moment Simon, James, and John leave everything behind to follow Jesus. Luke 5:1–11 shows that when we truly see who Jesus is, we can’t stay where we are. God’s interruptions are not obstacles; they're invitations to something far greater. A clearer vision of Christ always calls us into stronger dedication and surrender.

In the first part of this sermon, “Divine Interruptions,” Pastor Luke Ahrens draws us into the moment Jesus steps into Simon’s empty boat—and completely changes the course of his life. Through Luke 5:1–11, we see how God often uses both our emptiness and our fullness to reveal a deeper understanding of Jesus. As the nets fill and boats begin to sink, the real miracle is what happens in Simon’s heart. The Spirit is always working to lead us into greater clarity about Christ; That clarity calls us to deeper commitment.

As the crowds press in, Jesus remains unwavering—healing with compassion, praying with intention, and preaching with purpose. In the second half of this sermon from Luke 4:38–44, Pastor Luke Ahrens shows how Jesus’ ministry was never random or reactive, but marked by clarity and conviction. His authority wasn’t just in His miracles; it was in His mission. True impact comes when we follow Him with that same focus.

In the first part of this sermon from Luke 4:38–44, Jesus moves from the synagogue to the streets, bringing healing, freedom, and purpose wherever He goes. Pastor Luke Ahrens highlights four marks of Jesus’ ministry—personal, powerful, prayerful, and purposeful—that still shape how He works today. Whether confronting sickness or seeking solitude with the Father, Jesus stays focused on His mission. This is the kind of authority that transforms lives and refuses to be confined.

As the crowd watches in awe, Jesus silences the demonic and sets a captive free with a single word. In this second half of the sermon from Luke 4:31–37, Pastor Luke Ahrens emphasizes that Christ’s authority is not only real—it’s redemptive. Jesus breaks through spiritual darkness to bring healing, truth, and lasting freedom. When we trust His authority, we discover the freedom our souls were made for.

In the first part of this sermon from Luke 4:31–37, Jesus enters the synagogue and confronts darkness with unmistakable authority and power. Pastor Luke Ahrens shows how Jesus delivers us from religious confusion into the truth of the Good News, and from spiritual oppression into healing and freedom. His word doesn’t just teach, it commands, liberates and restores. Freedom is found not in striving, but in submitting to the authority of Christ.

As the message of grace confronts hardened expectations, the crowd in Nazareth turns from admiration to rage. In this second half of the sermon from Luke 4:14–30, Pastor Luke Ahrens shows how Jesus remained resolute in God’s will, even when met with rejection and danger. The invitation of grace still stands—but it demands a response. We are called to receive God’s favor by faith, not on our terms, but on His.

In the first part of this sermon from Luke 4:14–30, Jesus stands in His hometown synagogue and boldly declares that the long-awaited favor of the Lord has arrived. Pastor Luke Ahrens shows how Jesus refused to be sidetracked—whether by praise, pressure, or hostility—and remained fully committed to God’s mission. Jesus unveiled a season of grace for all who would receive it, but not everyone welcomed the message. We will either embrace this grace by faith or reject it in unbelief.

As the confrontation in the wilderness reaches its conclusion, Pastor Luke Ahrens shows how Jesus defeats every temptation by standing firmly in God’s truth. In this second half of the sermon from Luke 4:1–13, we’re called to live with the same Spirit-empowered clarity and conviction. Will we walk in trust-driven authority or settle for the illusion of control? Real authority begins where surrender to God is complete.

In the first part of this sermon from Luke 4:1–13, Jesus faces the enemy not with spectacle or power, but with Spirit-filled obedience and the Word of God. Pastor Luke Ahrens challenges us to consider whether we will live under God-centered authority or with self-centered ambition, whether our worship will be empowered by the cross or empty of its power, and whether our trust will be grounded in faith or consumed by fear. This message calls us to reject the shortcuts of the enemy and embrace the path of true spiritual authority.

Pastor Luke Ahrens continues exploring the rich genealogy of Jesus in Luke 3:23–38, moving from a list of names to a profound declaration of identity and purpose. Tracing Jesus' line all the way back to Adam—and ultimately to God Himself—Luke reminds us that Jesus isn’t just the culmination of a promise to Abraham or David, but the answer to the hopes of all humanity. In Jesus, the true Son of God, we see both divine origin and human connection. Pastor Luke highlights how this lineage affirms God’s unwavering commitment to redeem creation, and how every generation, every name, every step, was part of His sovereign plan. God keeps His promises, not only to individuals but to the world.

Pastor Luke Ahrens takes us through the genealogy of Jesus in Luke 3:23–38, revealing a powerful thread of God’s faithfulness from Adam to Christ. Every name tells a story of promise, patience, and providence, culminating in the arrival of the true Son of God. Pastor Luke reminds us that God's promises never fail and that Jesus stands as the fulfillment of every one.

In the conclusion of this sermon, Pastor Luke Ahrens continues to reflect on the powerful scene of Jesus’ baptism in Luke 3:21–22, drawing out its deep significance for our faith today. As the Father’s voice thunders His love and approval, we are reminded of the unshakable identity and authority of Christ. Pastor Luke calls us to respond with worship, obedience, and a renewed confidence in the One who stands both fully God and fully man.

Pastor Luke Ahrens draws us into the stunning moment of Jesus’ baptism, where heaven opens and the majesty of the Trinity is unveiled. As Jesus stands in humble obedience, the Spirit descends and the Father declares His pleasure. Pastor Luke helps us see how this sacred scene affirms Christ’s identity and launches His public mission with divine power and purpose.

Pastor Luke Ahrens continues through Luke 3:15–20, focusing on John the Baptist’s unwavering commitment to truth, even in the face of personal loss. As John confronts sin boldly and exalts Christ faithfully, Pastor Luke calls the church to a Gospel Advance marked by unity, prayer, disciple-making, and lives transformed by the message of Jesus. This is the witness of the consummate messenger—and the calling for every believer.

In the first part of this sermon, Pastor Luke Ahrens highlights John the Baptist’s powerful clarity in pointing people away from himself and toward the coming Christ. Preaching with conviction and humility, John declares the greatness of Jesus and the refining work He alone can do. Pastor Luke challenges us to embrace the same posture—lifting high Christ, proclaiming truth with courage, and preparing our hearts for Gospel Advance.

In the conclusion of this sermon, Pastor Luke continues through Luke 3:1–14, focusing on the personal and practical nature of true repentance. As the crowds ask, “What then shall we do?” John’s answers cut through pretense and call for real-life change. Pastor Luke presses into the heart of that same question today—urging believers to align their lives with the transforming power of God’s Word.

In the first part of this sermon, Pastor Luke Ahrens opens Luke 3:1–14 with a powerful look at John the Baptist’s bold call to repentance. Set against a backdrop of political and religious power, God’s Word breaks through the wilderness with urgency and grace. Pastor Luke challenges listeners to prepare their hearts for the Lord by turning from empty religion and embracing genuine, fruit-bearing repentance.

In the conclusion of this sermon, Pastor Luke continues unpacking Luke 1:1–4, focusing on the deep assurance God offers through His revealed Word. He highlights how Luke’s careful account strengthens our confidence in the truth of the gospel. With pastoral insight, Pastor Luke challenges listeners to anchor their faith in the reliability of Scripture and the faithfulness of God.

In the first part of this sermon, Pastor Luke Ahrens invites listeners into the rich beginnings of the Gospel of Luke, highlighting the intentionality and trustworthiness of God’s Word. Drawing from Luke 1:1–4, he emphasizes the value of an “orderly account” and the certainty it brings to our faith. This message marks the beginning of a powerful journey through Luke’s Gospel, rooted in eyewitness testimony and divine purpose.

In the conclusion of this sermon, Pastor Luke Ahrens continues to highlight how gospel advance is both a supernatural work of God and a calling for His people. Acts 6:7 shows that when the church removes distractions, pursues unity, and prioritizes prayer, the result is a wave of disciple-making that exalts Christ. Pastor Luke challenges us to consider whether we’re creating space in our lives and church for that kind of movement. The gospel is relentless—and it’s meant to move through us.

In the first part of this sermon, Pastor Luke Ahrens unpacks the power of Acts 6:7, where the gospel continues to move forward—unstoppable and life-changing. As the early church renewed unity, resolved conflict, and stayed devoted to prayer, the Word of God spread and disciples multiplied. Pastor Luke reminds us that gospel advance isn’t accidental; it flows from a church committed to Christ and free from distraction. When the message of Jesus takes root, it transforms both the church and the world around it.

Pastor Luke Ahrens continues to unfold the powerful impact of a church devoted to ministry, as seen in Acts 6:4–7. The apostles’ focus on prayer and the Word resulted in a thriving, Spirit-led movement, with the Word of God multiplying and new disciples added daily. Pastor Luke challenges us to reflect on how our own devotion to Christ-centered ministry can lead to growth in our lives and the church. When we share in the mission of Christ, we participate in His work of transforming lives and advancing the Kingdom.

In the first part of this sermon, Pastor Luke Ahrens highlights the importance of every believer's calling to serve in the local church, as seen in Acts 6:4–7. Through the example of the apostles, we learn that devotion to prayer and the ministry of the Word fuels joy in service to Christ, fellow believers, and those yet to know Him. Pastor Luke challenges us to consider how our personal and corporate commitment to Christ-centered ministry shapes both our church's identity and its impact on the world. True ministry flows from a heart fully devoted to God’s mission.

Pastor Luke Ahrens continues unpacking what it means to live a life filled with the Holy Spirit, as seen in the example of Stephen. Spirit-filled living isn’t just about inner transformation—it’s meant to overflow into bold faith, wisdom, and visible impact. Pastor Luke calls us to seek both the reliable fruit and the surprising movements of the Spirit in our daily walk. When the Holy Spirit is active in us, others will notice—and Christ will be glorified.

In the first part of this sermon, Pastor Luke Ahrens turns to Acts 6 to highlight what set Stephen and the early leaders apart: lives marked by the unmistakable presence of the Holy Spirit. Spirit-filled living isn’t reserved for a few—it’s available to every believer and meant to shape both character and calling. Pastor Luke challenges us to consider whether others can genuinely see the Spirit’s activity in our lives. The filling of the Spirit brings both steady fruit and surprising power—do you carry a reputation for it?

In the conclusion of this sermon, Pastor Luke Ahrens shows how the early church’s commitment to a shared mission led to a powerful multiplication of ministry and disciples. Acts 6:1–7 reveals that when the body of Christ functions in unity—each person owning the mission and stepping into their role—God’s Word advances and lives are transformed. Pastor Luke invites us to evaluate how we’re engaging in Christ’s work, not just occasionally, but consistently. Ministry isn’t just for a few—it’s a shared calling for every follower of Jesus.

Pastor Luke Ahrens walks through Acts 6:1–7, where a moment of church tension becomes a turning point for gospel growth. As needs arise and roles are redefined, the early church stays anchored in its mission while expanding its ministry. Pastor Luke challenges us to consider whether we’ve personally owned Christ’s mission and are actively sharing in His work each week. Missional ministry can be traded, juggled, or neglected; but it’s meant to be shared.

Pastor Luke Ahrens continues unpacking Acts 6, highlighting how the apostles wisely navigated conflict without losing sight of their calling. Rather than avoiding the issue, they addressed it with Spirit-led clarity, raising up new leaders and strengthening the church. Pastor Luke challenges us to see conflict not as a threat, but as a God-given opportunity to grow in faith, unity, and service. When handled with love and truth, even church problems can lead to powerful ministry breakthroughs.

In the first part of this sermon, Pastor Luke Ahrens turns to Acts 6:1–2 to show how early church conflict became a catalyst for deeper growth and gospel-centered ministry. When disappointment surfaces in the body of Christ, it's not a detour—it’s a defining moment. Pastor Luke reminds us that while the church may let us down, Jesus never does, and He often allows tension to test hearts and open doors for greater fruitfulness. How we respond to problems reveals not just our priorities, but our love for Christ and His church.

In the conclusion of this sermon, Pastor Luke Ahrens brings to light the far-reaching impact of God’s redemptive work in Ruth’s story, culminating in the birth of Obed—the grandfather of King David. What begins with personal restoration for Naomi becomes a generational blessing that points directly to Jesus. Pastor Luke unpacks how God’s faithfulness not only heals individual wounds but secures an eternal gospel legacy. This is the beauty God creates when He takes what’s broken and makes it whole.

In the first part of this sermon, Pastor Luke Ahrens walks through Ruth 4:13–22, where sorrow gives way to joy and God’s quiet providence brings beauty out of brokenness. Through the story of Ruth, Boaz, and Naomi, we witness the Lord restoring what was lost and weaving redemption into every thread of their lives. Pastor Luke shows how God shapes our brokenness into a beautiful mosaic of restored life, covenantal love, and gospel legacy. This message reminds us that no part of our story is beyond God’s power to redeem.

In this second part of the sermon, Pastor Luke Ahrens continues to illuminate the depth of Boaz’s redemptive act and how it foreshadows Christ’s ultimate sacrifice for us. As Boaz’s marriage to Ruth secures her future, Pastor Luke draws a parallel to how Jesus, our Redeemer, has secured our eternal inheritance through His death and resurrection. This message challenges us to reflect on the immense love and grace that defines our redemption, reminding us that in Christ, we are promised restoration, hope, and a place in God’s family.

In this sermon, Pastor Luke Ahrens unpacks the powerful act of redemption shown in Ruth 4:1-12, where Boaz steps in to restore both land and legacy for Naomi and Ruth. Through this act, Boaz gives Ruth a selfless advocate, a beloved identity, and a future filled with blessing. Pastor Luke highlights how, just as Boaz redeemed Ruth, Jesus offers us a similar redemption, transforming our lives with His sacrificial love. This episode reminds us that, in Christ, we are no longer defined by brokenness or curse, but by His grace and promise.

In part two of this sermon, Pastor Luke Ahrens continues his reflection on Ruth 3, focusing on the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan through Boaz’s actions. He challenges us to remain patient and faithful, even when the outcome is uncertain, trusting that God will bring about wholeness in His perfect timing. Pastor Luke further reveals how our obedience and trust in God can open doors to blessings we never imagined, reminding us that God’s work is often bigger than we can see or control.