Meeting with God Radio

Picking back up in Philippians 1:27-30, this message urges believers to live lives worthy of the gospel, marked by courage and steadfast faith--a challenge to stand firm in the face of opposition, to be united in spirit, and to boldly advance the message of Christ. As Pastor Luke emphasizes the importance of suffering for the sake of the gospel, he reminds us that our greatest joy comes from seeing others grow in faith and glorify God. This is a calling for Christians to live with unwavering commitment, no matter the cost.

Pastor Luke Ahrens calls believers to a life fully surrendered to Christ in this powerful message from Philippians 1:18-26. He challenges us to honor Christ with every part of our earthly existence, to deepen our desire for His presence, and to live in such a way that others are inspired to glorify Him. With a heart of prayer and faith, Pastor Luke paints a vision of living with eternal purpose, embracing both life and death as opportunities to bring glory to God. This sermon stirs the soul to a Christ-centered passion that shapes every moment.

In the second part, Pastor Luke Ahrens dives deeper into the implications of Philippians 1:19-30, focusing on how our response to suffering and hardship reflects our trust in God’s plan. He underscores the peace that comes from knowing our lives are in God's hands, and how our willingness to live for Christ, even in difficult circumstances, brings glory to Him. Pastor Luke challenges listeners to consider how their own lives can advance the gospel, living boldly and faithfully, no matter the cost. Ultimately, he encourages believers to rejoice in the privilege of sharing in Christ's work.

Pastor Luke Ahrens reflects on Philippians 1:12-18, highlighting the joy that comes from God’s sovereignty in all circumstances. He emphasizes how God can turn even difficult situations into opportunities for advancing the gospel, using imperfect people with mixed motives to proclaim Christ. Pastor Luke also celebrates the gift of loving, sincere partners in ministry and God's unwavering commitment to spreading the message of Christ. In the end, despite challenges and opposition, God’s ultimate purpose is always fulfilled.

In the second part, Pastor Luke Ahrens builds on Philippians 1:3-11 to remind listeners that God's work in them is ongoing and steadfast. He highlights that God's work is sustained by prayer, shaped by love, and ultimately leads to righteousness and the glory of Christ. Paul’s confidence in God's faithfulness encourages believers to live in light of the coming Day of Christ, as they grow in love and knowledge. This episode reinforces the hope and assurance that God's transforming work will never be abandoned.

Pastor Luke Ahrens encourages believers with the truth that God is at work in them, using Philippians 1:3-11 as the foundation. He emphasizes that God’s work is accelerated through prayer, driven by affection, focused on the return of Christ, and empowered by Christ Himself. With joy and love, Paul’s message to the Philippians reminds us that God will complete the good work He began in us. This episode inspires believers to trust that God's faithful work in their lives will come to fruition.

Pastor Luke Ahrens continues to reflect on Philippians 1:1-6, further exploring the theme of being "Alive in Christ" and its profound impact on our lives. He challenges us to embrace the work God is doing in us, trusting that He is faithful to complete it. Through our partnership in the gospel, we are called to live with joy, confidence, and a deep gratitude for the work God is doing both in and through us as His people. This message encourages believers to press on in faith, knowing that God’s promises are sure.

Pastor Luke Ahrens delves into Philippians 1:1-6, highlighting the powerful truth that being "Alive in Christ" transforms every aspect of our lives. Pastor Ahrens emphasizes how our identity, reality, and mindset are shaped by our relationship with Jesus—finding our true identity in Him, living in the reality of our salvation, and cultivating joy and thanksgiving for fellow believers. With a focus on God's faithfulness, this episode reminds us that the good work God starts in us will be brought to completion.

Pastor Luke Ahrens continues his study of 2 Timothy 3:16-17, focusing on the practical ways Scripture equips believers for every good work. He highlights how God uses His Word to refine our character, guide our decisions, and align us with His will. Pastor Luke encourages listeners to commit to applying Scripture daily, embracing its transformative power in every aspect of life. This episode deepens the challenge to let God’s Word fully shape our thoughts, actions, and relationships.

Pastor Luke Ahrens unpacks 2 Timothy 3:16-17, highlighting how Scripture is God-breathed and essential for transformation and equipping in the life of a believer. He examines how Scripture is sufficient to change our beliefs and behavior, addressing where we need this transformation and how God uses His Word to shape us. Pastor Luke challenges listeners to consider if they will pursue God's transformation in every area of their life. This episode sets the stage for a deep dive into the powerful impact of Scripture.

In the second part of this sermon series, Pastor Luke Ahrens delves deeper into the significance of our responsibility to engage with the Bible today. Building on the history of its preservation, Pastor Luke explores how the Bible's availability in multiple languages has made it accessible to believers worldwide. He highlights the ongoing role of the Holy Spirit in illuminating Scripture, helping us understand its truths, and empowering us to live it out. This episode encourages believers to not only value the Bible’s history but to embrace its transformative power in their own lives, fulfilling the command to study, apply, and teach God's Word.

In this first part of a two-part sermon, Pastor Luke Ahrens explores the history of how the Bible was preserved and transmitted to us, highlighting key moments in its journey through history. From Moses writing the Law to Ezra's post-exilic reformation, and from the confirmation of Hebrew Scriptures by Jesus to the work of translators like Jerome and Tyndale, Pastor Ahrens illuminates how Scripture has been faithfully preserved. The episode also covers the role of textual criticism in restoring the Bible to its original form and emphasizes the theological importance of studying, applying, and teaching the Word of God. Ultimately, this episode calls believers to reflect on the importance of engaging with Scripture in our daily lives, just as Ezra was committed to studying and teaching it.

Pastor Luke Ahrens further unpacks the power of biblical inerrancy and its role in strengthening our faith. By reflecting on the consequences of Eve's choice in the Garden of Eden, he highlights how questioning God's Word leads to spiritual breakdown. Pastor ALuke challenges us to build a faith grounded in a deep trust in Scripture, encouraging believers to seek God with both heart and mind for a faith that endures and thrives. A robust faith comes from a firm foundation in the truth of God's Word.

Pastor Luke Ahrens emphasizes the importance of biblical inerrancy, asserting that Scripture is entirely truthful in its original manuscripts. Using Genesis 3:1-7 and Matthew 22:37, he challenges listeners to address alleged errors in the Bible and confront the consequences of a low view of Scripture. Pastor Luke also argues that a robust faith is built on a thinking faith, which requires loving God with our heart, soul, and mind. A high view of Scripture leads to a deeper, more transformative relationship with God.

In part two of this powerful sermon, Pastor Luke Ahrens further examines how embracing biblical authority transforms our spiritual walk. By fully submitting to the word of God, believers gain the clarity and confidence needed to face life’s obstacles with unwavering faith. Pastor Ahrens also warns about the subtle ways that worldly influences can undermine biblical authority, leaving believers vulnerable. Ultimately, it is through a deep commitment to God’s truth that we find the strength to stand firm in our faith.

Pastor Luke Ahrens dives into the importance of embracing biblical authority for spiritual clarity and confidence, drawing from Matthew 7:28-29 and Matthew 4:4. Jesus is revealed as the center of all biblical authority, and understanding this truth helps believers navigate life's challenges with certainty. However, the sermon also highlights the enemies that challenge this authority, leading to confusion and doubt. Ultimately, embracing God’s word is key to finding spiritual clarity and strength.

Pastor Luke Ahrens further highlights the life-transforming power of God’s Word, showing how Scripture not only guides us but shapes our hearts and minds. He examines the role of the Holy Spirit in applying the truth of the Bible to our daily lives and the importance of living under its authority. Pastor Luke challenges believers to fully engage with God’s Word, allowing it to produce lasting spiritual growth and deepen their relationship with Him.

In this first part of a two-part sermon, Pastor Luke Ahrens unpacks the profound truth that Scripture is God's Word, given to us for teaching, correction, and transformation. Drawing from 2 Timothy 3:16, 2 Peter 1:21, and Matthew 4:4, he discusses how the Bible was inspired by God, the process through which the canon of Scripture was recognized, and the life-changing power of submitting to God's Word. By embracing the authority of Scripture, believers can experience true personal transformation and grow in righteousness.

In this second part of the sermon on Romans 15:13, Pastor Luke Ahrens continues to highlight how God’s hope can transform lives. He emphasizes that hope isn’t just a feeling but a powerful, active force that sustains us through challenges. Pastor Luke challenges listeners to trust in God’s promises, deepen their prayer life, and allow the Holy Spirit to overflow hope in their hearts, bringing them peace and joy even in difficult times.

In this episode of Meeting With God, Pastor Luke Ahrens begins a two-part sermon on Romans 15:13, unpacking how God is the ultimate source of hope. He shares how God desires to fill believers with joy and peace, empowering them to abound in hope through the Holy Spirit. Pastor Luke encourages listeners to reach out to God in prayer, just as the apostle Paul did, to receive the fullness of His hope.

Expanding on the message of joy from Luke 2:8-20, Pastor Luke Ahrens focuses on the shepherds' response to the good news of Christ’s birth. Building on the six glorious gifts, he highlights how the shepherds' encounter with Jesus leads to worship, praise, and a life changed by the gospel. He challenges listeners to reflect on their own response to the Savior's birth and how the joy of Christ should compel them to share the message with others. This episode deepens our understanding of how the true joy of Christmas transforms lives.

Pastor Luke Ahrens unpacks the profound message of joy from Luke 2:8-20, where the shepherds encounter the glory of God and the birth of Jesus Christ. Through six glorious gifts, Pastor Ahrens highlights the joy of experiencing God’s presence, hearing the good news of a personal Savior, and personally encountering Christ. Listeners are invited to reflect on the peaceful purposes of God, the call to share the gospel, and the overflowing joy that results from encountering Jesus. Join us for a powerful reminder of the great joy available to all who receive the good news.

Pastor Luke Ahrens continues unpacking the transformative power of God's glory in Joseph’s response to the angel’s message. Drawing from Matthew 1:18-25, he shows how Joseph’s obedience to God’s call led to the fulfillment of prophecy and the coming of Jesus, Emmanuel—God with us. Pastor Luke encourages us to follow Joseph's example of faith, even when it means stepping into the unknown, because true peace comes when we align our lives with God's redemptive plan. Discover how embracing the interruption of God’s glory brings lasting change and purpose.

Pastor Luke Ahrens explores the powerful moment when Joseph's life was interrupted by an angelic visitation in a dream, revealing God's plan for the birth of Jesus (Matthew 1:18-25). Through this divine interruption, Pastor Luke challenges us to embrace the idea that we need our dreams interrupted by God's glory. True joy and peace, he teaches, come when our lives are shaped and redirected by the overwhelming presence of God. Tune in to hear how God's glory can change everything.

In the second part of this sermon, Pastor Luke Ahrens highlights the importance of trusting God's plan, even when it’s difficult to comprehend. He reflects on how Jesus, though divine, chose to submit to His parents and grow in wisdom, setting an example of humility and obedience. Pastor Ahrens challenges believers to live with faith, embracing God's guidance even when the path is unclear. This message encourages us to rest in God's timing and trust that He is at work, even when we don’t see the whole picture.

Pastor Luke Ahrens reflects on the challenges of living by faith during times of confusion, drawing from the story of Jesus at twelve years old in the temple (Luke 2:39-52). He highlights how even Mary and Joseph, despite their deep faith, struggled to understand God's ways when faced with unexpected circumstances. Pastor Luke encourages believers to trust in God's timing and purpose, even when His plans are unclear. This episode challenges us to respond with faith, even in moments of uncertainty.

Pastor Luke Ahrens delves deeper into the prophetic words spoken by Simeon and Anna upon meeting Jesus in the temple. Drawing from Luke 2:29-38, he reflects on how their long-awaited encounter with the Messiah revealed God’s faithfulness and the universal scope of His salvation. Pastor Luke encourages listeners to examine their own anticipation of Christ’s return, challenging them to live with renewed hope and a deeper understanding of God’s promises fulfilled in Jesus.

In this first part of this sermon, Pastor Luke Ahrens reflects on the anticipation surrounding the arrival of Jesus as seen through the eyes of Simeon and Anna in the temple. Drawing from Luke 2:21-38, he examines their fervent waiting and unwavering hope for the promised Messiah. As they encounter the infant Jesus, their profound recognition of God’s salvation challenges us to consider the depth of our own longing for Christ’s return. This episode invites listeners to reflect on the heart posture of waiting with faith and expectancy.

Pastor Luke Ahrens continues to unpack the significance of Jesus' birth in Luke 2:21-40. He focuses on the faithful responses of Simeon and Anna, who recognized the Messiah and praised God for the fulfillment of His promises. Pastor Luke encourages listeners to reflect on the hope and peace that come through Christ, and how the birth of Jesus still calls us to respond in faith and worship today. This episode highlights the enduring power of God's revelation in Christ and the joy it brings to all who believe.

Pastor Luke Ahrens reflects on the birth of Jesus as described in Luke 2:1-20. He highlights the miraculous arrival of the Savior in Bethlehem, the unexpected announcement to the shepherds, and the joy that followed. Pastor Luke draws attention to the significance of this event, emphasizing God's plan for salvation and the peace it brings to the world. This episode sets the stage for understanding the profound impact of Christ's birth on all who encounter it.

In part two of this sermon, Pastor Luke Ahrens unpacks Zechariah’s prophecy from Luke 1:56-80, focusing on the themes of salvation and peace. He highlights how God’s mercy not only rescues us but also offers forgiveness and guidance toward a righteous life. Pastor Luke encourages listeners to live in the light of God’s mercy, shaping their lives around His redemptive work as we look forward to the fulfillment of His promises. This episode invites us to trust in God's faithfulness and embrace the peace He offers.

Pastor Luke Ahrens brings this message on the birth of John the Baptist, drawing from Luke 1:56-80. He reflects on God’s mercy revealed through the birth of John and Zechariah’s prophetic blessing. As Zechariah praises God's faithfulness, Pastor Luke challenges listeners to see mercy in their own lives and anticipate God’s greater work to come. This episode invites us to consider how we respond to God’s mercy and prepare for His unfolding plan.

Continuing this study of Luke 1:26-56, diving deeper into Mary’s response to God’s calling and the power of the Holy Spirit in her life. Pastor Luke highlights how the gifts of God—grace, favor, and the promise of eternal life—are meant to bear lasting fruit in the lives of believers. Pastor Luke challenges listeners to consider how they can actively cultivate spiritual fruitfulness in their own journeys. Are you living in a way that reflects the great things God has done for you?

Pastor Luke Ahrens unpacks the profound message found in Luke 1:26-56, highlighting nine incredible gifts from God to humanity. Focusing on Mary’s obedience and the miraculous conception of Jesus, he emphasizes how fruitfulness in the life of a disciple matters deeply to God. Pastor Luke also ties together the relationship between prayer and fruitfulness, encouraging listeners to reflect on whether their own lives are bearing "much fruit" for God’s kingdom. What could that fruitfulness look like in your own walk with Christ?

Pastor Luke Ahrens delves deeper into the significance of God's unexpected grace in Zechariah and Elizabeth's story. He examines how Zechariah’s doubt and subsequent silence serve as a reminder of the importance of trusting God's promises, even when they seem impossible. Through this narrative, Pastor Luke encourages listeners to embrace faith in God's perfect timing, as He works in ways beyond our understanding to fulfill His plans.

Explore the powerful story of Zechariah and Elizabeth in Luke 1:5-25, highlighting God's unexpected grace. Despite their years of barrenness and advanced age, God answers their prayer in a miraculous way, sending an angel to announce the birth of their son, John. Through this encounter, Pastor Luke reflects on how God's timing and faithfulness often defy human expectations, bringing joy and hope in the most unlikely circumstances.

In the second part of this sermon, Pastor Luke Ahrens delves deeper into the transformative power of abiding in Christ and the impact it has on a believer’s life. He emphasizes the importance of obedience to Jesus’ commands and how love for one another is the ultimate expression of fruitful discipleship. Pastor Luke encourages listeners to reflect on how their relationship with Jesus can lead to lasting fruit that glorifies God, strengthens their faith, and bears witness to the world. This episode challenges us to live out the calling to be disciples who love as Christ loves.

In this first part of a two-part series, Pastor Luke Ahrens examines Jesus' teachings from John 15 on abiding in Him as the key to a flourishing faith. He explains that fruitfulness matters deeply to God, and how prayer is intricately linked to producing spiritual fruit. Pastor Luke challenges listeners to examine their lives and consider whether they are truly bearing fruit as disciples of Jesus, while inviting reflection on what "much fruit" could look like in each believer’s life. This episode sets the foundation for a life that glorifies God through abundant fruitfulness.

In the second part of this sermon, Pastor Luke continues his exploration of John 15, focusing on the deeper implications of abiding in Christ. He explains that a flourishing faith not only transforms us internally but also compels us to love others as Christ has loved us. By maintaining our connection with the true vine, believers bear lasting fruit that glorifies God. Pastor Luke further emphasizes the importance of daily practices like meditating on God’s Word, persistent prayer, and being led by the Holy Spirit, all of which sustain and grow our relationship with God and strengthen our ability to love and serve others.

Pastor Luke Ahrens explores John 15, where Jesus teaches about the vital connection between the vine and its branches. He emphasizes that a flourishing faith is rooted in an ongoing, life-giving relationship with God through Christ and the Holy Spirit. A flourishing faith prioritizes internal transformation over external fruitfulness, requiring continual focus, repetition, and nurturing. Pastor Luke highlights three key daily practices for cultivating such a faith: delighting in and obeying God's Word, relentless prayer, and being filled with and following the Holy Spirit.

Pastor Luke dives deeper into the transformative power of faith. Focusing on the official’s journey from desperation to belief, Luke highlights how Jesus' words can bring about life-changing results when we trust in Him fully. By examining the official’s newfound faith, we are reminded that Jesus is not only capable of changing our circumstances, but also our hearts. This message encourages believers to bring their burdens to Jesus, trusting that He will work in ways that exceed our expectations and bring about true healing.

In this sermon, "Bring It To Jesus," Pastor Luke Ahrens explores the powerful story of the official whose son was healed by Jesus in John 4:46-53. As the man seeks a quick fix for his son’s illness, Jesus challenges him to believe beyond signs and wonders, revealing His true identity as the Savior who can change both our situations and our hearts. Pastor Luke emphasizes the importance of bringing everything to God in prayer, recognizing that while we may seek a solution, God desires to transform us in the process. This message reminds us that Jesus is not just a "fix it" solution, but the one who offers life and healing through faith.

In the second part of his sermon on uncommon community, Pastor Luke Ahrens continues exploring Ephesians 4:30-5:2, focusing on how the Holy Spirit empowers believers to live out grace-filled relationships. He delves deeper into what it means to "walk in love" as Christ did—sacrificially and intentionally—transforming our interactions with others. Pastor Ahrens challenges listeners to reflect on how the Spirit is working in their own hearts to foster a community that mirrors God's love and forgiveness. The message concludes with practical steps for cultivating this uncommon community in everyday life.

Uncommon community doesn’t happen by accident, but requires a surrender to God’s transformative work in our lives and relationships. While grace may come easily with some, it’s often challenging with others, and in these moments, we must rely on the Holy Spirit’s help to cultivate kindness, forgiveness, and love. Pastor Ahrens highlights the Spirit’s essential role in building faithful, grace-filled connections within the body of Christ, a sermon based on Ephesians 4:30-5:2.

In the second part of this sermon, Pastor Luke Ahrens continues his teaching from Ephesians 4:30-32, highlighting the transformative power of grace in fostering unity and forgiveness within the body of Christ. He encourages believers to let go of bitterness, wrath, and malice, and instead be kind, tenderhearted, and forgiving—just as God in Christ has forgiven us. Pastor Luke challenges us to reflect on how embracing God's grace not only heals relationships but also strengthens the community, making it a true reflection of God's love and mercy to the world.

Ephesians 4:25-29 unpacks four transformative gifts that can reshape our communities: truth-telling, controlled anger, honest work, and edifying speech. By embracing these gifts, rooted in God's grace, we create a faithful community where relationships are marked by love, integrity, and mutual support. Pastor Luke challenges us to reflect on how our words and actions can build up those around us and invite grace into our everyday interactions. This episode sets the foundation for a deeper, more authentic community life in Christ.

Continuing his exploration of Ephesians 4, Pastor Luke Ahrens shares how believers are called to live out their new identity in Christ within the community of faith. He challenges us to put on the qualities of compassion, kindness, and forgiveness, reflecting the love and grace we've received from God. As disciples of Jesus, we are not only transformed individually but are called to help one another grow in unity and maturity, building each other up in truth and love. This episode underscores the vital role of grace-driven relationships in fostering a strong, thriving church community.

In today's message, Pastor Luke explores Ephesians 4:17-24, urging believers to leave behind their old selves and embrace the new life in Christ. He emphasizes the importance of growing together as a community of disciples, marked by grace and mutual transformation. As followers of Jesus, we are called to reject the futility of worldly thinking and walk in the righteousness and holiness that God empowers us to live. This episode highlights the transformative power of God's grace in shaping faithful, Christ-centered relationships within the body of believers.

In the second part of this message, Pastor Luke continues to unpack Ephesians 4:7-16, emphasizing the practical outworking of spiritual growth within the church community. He highlights how, as each believer matures in faith, they contribute to the body’s health and unity, standing firm against false teachings and growing together in Christlikeness. Pastor Luke challenges us to embrace our roles within the body, fostering a loving, truth-centered community that reflects God's grace and leads to deeper spiritual transformation.

This message focuses on how Christ has gifted the church to grow together in unity and maturity. Through the grace He extends to each believer, God provides His Word, leaders, and spiritual gifts to equip the body of Christ for service and strengthen relationships within the community. Pastor Luke highlights the importance of building one another up in love and truth, so that the church may reflect Christ’s fullness and grow in harmony.