The Leader’s Notebook with Dr. Mark Rutland

In this powerful Memorial Day message, Dr. Mark Rutland explores The Mystery of Communion through the lens of Matthew 26:26-30—the moment Jesus established a new covenant at the Last Supper. With deep reverence, Dr. Rutland unpacks how Holy Communion is far more than a ritual. It is a sacred act where the Holy Spirit meets us with grace, healing, and divine presence. From the Hebrew roots of worship through Psalm 136 to the sobering weight of Christ’s words—“This is My body...This is My blood”—this episode challenges us to approach the Communion table with awe, repentance, and faith. Communion isn’t just symbolic; it is supernatural. As we partake, God ministers grace to the deepest places in our lives. It’s not only remembrance—it’s renewal.

In this powerful sermon from 1 Kings 18, Dr. Mark Rutland explores the dramatic showdown on Mount Carmel. Fire falls from heaven, consuming the soaked altar and proving once and for all who the true God is. But this isn’t just history—it’s a prophetic picture. The fire of God represents the Holy Spirit, who purifies, sanctifies, and calls us to holiness. Then comes the rain—a sign of God’s blessing—but only after the fire has come first. In this message, Dr. Rutland issues a clear challenge: you can’t live with one foot in each camp. It’s time to choose—God or the devil, the Kingdom or the world, but not both.

In Part 2 of God in the Distaff Side, Dr. Mark Rutland turns to the hearts of women in Scripture—the compromised, romantic, and committed heart. From Lot’s wife and Bathsheba to Rizpah and Mary, each reveals how the posture of the heart shaped their destiny. Through these stories, Dr. Rutland reveals how the heart still directs the course of a life—and how God continues to speak through the distaff side.

In this moving two-part series, Dr. Mark Rutland turns our attention to the women of Scripture—how they saw, what they carried, and how God met them in their pain. From Michal’s bitterness to Naomi’s brokenness, from a Gentile mother’s humility to Anna’s faith, their stories reveal how the eyes of women have been shaped by loss, insult, and hope. This message is a love letter from God to the distaff side—a call to see beyond what’s been lost and believe again.

In this powerful message from Acts 1:1–8, Dr. Mark Rutland explores the profound communication struggle between God and humanity. Though God's message is perfect, it is received through our broken, fallen nature—leading to confusion about the very Kingdom Jesus came to reveal. Dr. Rutland illustrates how even the apostles misunderstood Christ's teachings on power, expecting military strength when Jesus offered spiritual authority. Through vivid examples—from the humanity of Jesus to Peter’s sword in Gethsemane—this sermon challenges listeners to rethink what it means to receive true power through the Holy Spirit. Power not to conquer, but to carry the cross.

In this powerful episode, Dr. Mark Rutland unpacks Isaiah 6:1—"In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw also the Lord..." With deep insight and personal storytelling, he reminds us that no matter what happens in our lives or nation, God is still on the throne. Sharing a childhood lesson about depth perception, Dr. Rutland illustrates how the enemy magnifies our pain until it blocks our view of God. But like Isaiah, we can declare: I see that... but I also see the Lord, high and lifted up. This message is a stirring call to reclaim our focus, renew our humility, and refuse to let grief or fear define our year—because this is the year of our Lord.

In this powerful episode, Dr. Mark Rutland explores one of the most profound moments of repentance in all of Scripture. Drawing from 2 Samuel 12 and Psalm 51, he unpacks the story behind King David’s fall with Bathsheba, the prophetic confrontation by Nathan, and David’s heartfelt response. Dr. Rutland dives into the raw honesty of Psalm 51, showing how David’s confession wasn’t about managing consequences—it was about true transformation. A thousand years before Christ, David longed not just for forgiveness, but for a new heart. This message is a sobering reminder that no sin is isolated, but also a beautiful testament to God’s mercy and desire to restore.

In this powerful episode of The Leader’s Notebook, Dr. Mark Rutland unpacks the story of Jezebel from 1 Kings 21—revealing how this ancient narrative exposes a manipulative and destructive spirit still at work today. Jezebel wasn’t just a historical figure; she represents a spirit of control that thrives in secrecy, manipulation, and ultimately, destruction. This episode explores how the Jezebel spirit operates behind the scenes, pulling strings for power without accountability. Dr. Rutland challenges listeners to recognize the signs, understand the pathology, and learn how to confront this spirit by bringing it into the light.

In Acts 13, the Holy Spirit speaks, and the Church is launched into its mission. In this episode, Dr. Mark Rutland unpacks how Acts 13 reveals a responsive, missional, and intentional Church, led by the voice of God. But does God still speak and move like that today? Dr. Rutland shares his own powerful testimony of hearing from God in 1981 and following His call, even when the path seemed impossible. The Holy Spirit is still speaking—are we listening?

Dr. Mark Rutland takes us to Acts 9 and 10, where Peter’s encounter in Joppa becomes a turning point for the gospel. A Roman centurion, a vision of unclean food becoming clean, and a divine command—God was stretching Peter beyond his understanding of the law. Was God telling him to break it? No, He was revealing a greater plan. As Peter wrestled with tradition, the answer came knocking—literally. Joppa wasn’t just a historical moment; it was the gateway to the Gentile world, shaping the future of the Church. Just as Jonah resisted Nineveh, Peter hesitated—but obedience in Joppa changed history. The Holy Spirit is always expanding our faith, challenging our expectations, and leading us into the unknown. Are you ready to follow?

Dr. Mark Rutland takes us to Acts 2, where Simon Peter boldly proclaims, “This is that”—connecting the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost to Joel’s ancient prophecy. What happened in that Upper Room wasn’t just a historical event; it was the future breaking into the present. The early believers couldn’t fulfill their mission without the power of the Holy Spirit, and neither can we. In this episode, Dr. Rutland unpacks the deeper meaning of Pentecost, its connection to prophecy, and why the Holy Spirit remains essential for the Church today.

In this episode of The Leader's Notebook, Dr. Mark Rutland reads from Matthew 13:18-48. Jesus describes the Kingdom of Heaven through parables, like a multifaceted jewel, each parable revealing another glimpse of its splendor. The Kingdom is ruled by God, but in its outward form, it remains a mixture until Christ’s return—imperfect in us, yet divinely orchestrated. And just as a man gives everything for a great treasure, so Jesus gave everything for you. God, the King, is calling you to His table of grace. Will you see yourself as He sees you—worth everything?

In this powerful episode, Dr. Mark Rutland explores the story of four leprous men at the gate of Samaria during an Aramean siege, with the city trapped in famine and desperation (2 Kings 7:3). These outcasts unknowingly stumble upon abundance where they expected death, and their next decision holds a powerful lesson for us today. Don’t miss this thought-provoking message!

In the Book of Judges, God used unexpected, inanimate objects—an ox goad, a tent peg, a pitcher, a torch, a trumpet, a millstone, and a jawbone—to bring victory to His people. These objects had no power of their own, yet in the hands of a higher power, they played a crucial role in God’s divine plan. In this episode, Dr. Mark Rutland explores how these unconventional instruments teach us about availability, surrender, and the supernatural power of God. Like Paul in Corinth, we must determine to know nothing but Jesus Christ and Him crucified—saying “yes” to be used as His instrument, for His purpose, no matter how ordinary we may seem.

In this powerful message from 2 Kings 4, Dr. Mark Rutland explores a mother’s unwavering faith in the face of tragedy. Her story challenges us to reflect on our own faith—do we have a heart for the lost and dying? Through personal testimony and biblical insight, Dr. Rutland calls us to embrace God’s mission and allow Him to work through us in our communities.

In this special two-part series, Dr. Mark Rutland speaks to pastors and guests at the Appalachian Ministry Network Conference 2024, held at Life Church Roanoke, Virginia. He explores the divine nature of communication, reflecting on all that Jesus began to do and teach until the day He was taken up. Examining the role of the Holy Spirit and the gifts bestowed upon the apostles, Dr. Rutland offers personal insights into the blessing and danger of power—how, when misused, it can lead people astray, even to the point of committing harm in the name of Jesus. This episode is a compelling call to steward power with wisdom and humility in the service of the gospel.

In this special two-part series, Dr. Mark Rutland speaks to pastors and guests at the Appalachian Ministry Network Conference 2024, held at Life Church Roanoke, Virginia. Drawing from the writings of Paul and his own journey, Dr. Rutland explores the call to preach the gospel, emphasizing the importance of delivering the right message, to the right people, in the right way, at the right time. Through personal stories of early hardships on the road, he encourages and equips pastors to boldly proclaim the Word of God.

In this episode of The Leader's Notebook, Dr. Mark Rutland unpacks the spiritual lessons from Joshua leading the Israelites across the Jordan River. Learn how sanctification, faith, and obedience became their keys to conquest—and how these principles can help you overcome obstacles and experience God’s purpose in your life.

Unlock the secrets to thriving relationships with Dr. Mark Rutland on "The Leader's Notebook." Originally part of Free Chapel's 2024 series "Better Together," Dr. Rutland offers practical, godly wisdom for everyone—whether you're married, engaged, dating, or single—to help you and your loved ones grow stronger and healthier together.

In this episode of The Leader's Notebook, Dr. Mark Rutland discusses the transformative power of forgiveness in our lives. Discover how letting go of past hurts can bring healing, freedom, and renewed peace.

Join Dr. Mark Rutland on this week's episode of The Leader's Notebook as he shares his impactful 2019 sermon, 'Grace To The Mountain.' Discover timeless insights on facing life's challenges with grace and faith.

In this reflective episode, Dr. Mark Rutland explores the Sunday between Christmas and New Year's. After the joy of Christmas and, subsequently, New Year's fades, how do we navigate the emptiness that often follows? Drawing inspiration from Mary’s faith after the angel departed, Dr. Rutland shares how to remain steadfast and hopeful in the in-between moments. A timely message to keep believing and stay faithful when the festivities are over.

In this powerful Christmas Eve episode, Dr. Mark Rutland unpacks the extraordinary truth of the Incarnation. What does it mean that God became man? How does this miracle transform everything? Don’t miss this unforgettable perspective on the greatest gift ever given.

Join Dr. Mark Rutland as he journeys through the book of Genesis in this 14-part series, uncovering the foundational stories that shape our faith and understanding of God’s plan. In each episode, Dr. Rutland delves into the rich narratives of creation, covenant, and the lives of the patriarchs, offering profound insights and practical applications for your spiritual journey. Whether you're new to the Bible or seeking a deeper understanding of its earliest chapters, this series provides an engaging exploration of the timeless truths found in Genesis.

Join Dr. Mark Rutland as he journeys through the book of Genesis in this 14-part series, uncovering the foundational stories that shape our faith and understanding of God’s plan. In each episode, Dr. Rutland delves into the rich narratives of creation, covenant, and the lives of the patriarchs, offering profound insights and practical applications for your spiritual journey. Whether you're new to the Bible or seeking a deeper understanding of its earliest chapters, this series provides an engaging exploration of the timeless truths found in Genesis.

Join Dr. Mark Rutland as he journeys through the book of Genesis in this 14-part series, uncovering the foundational stories that shape our faith and understanding of God’s plan. In each episode, Dr. Rutland delves into the rich narratives of creation, covenant, and the lives of the patriarchs, offering profound insights and practical applications for your spiritual journey. Whether you're new to the Bible or seeking a deeper understanding of its earliest chapters, this series provides an engaging exploration of the timeless truths found in Genesis.

Join Dr. Mark Rutland as he journeys through the book of Genesis in this 14-part series, uncovering the foundational stories that shape our faith and understanding of God’s plan. In each episode, Dr. Rutland delves into the rich narratives of creation, covenant, and the lives of the patriarchs, offering profound insights and practical applications for your spiritual journey. Whether you're new to the Bible or seeking a deeper understanding of its earliest chapters, this series provides an engaging exploration of the timeless truths found in Genesis.

Join Dr. Mark Rutland as he journeys through the book of Genesis in this 14-part series, uncovering the foundational stories that shape our faith and understanding of God’s plan. In each episode, Dr. Rutland delves into the rich narratives of creation, covenant, and the lives of the patriarchs, offering profound insights and practical applications for your spiritual journey. Whether you're new to the Bible or seeking a deeper understanding of its earliest chapters, this series provides an engaging exploration of the timeless truths found in Genesis.

Join us for an exclusive look into Keep On Keeping On: How to Die Young...as Old as Possible, Dr. Mark Rutland’s laugh-out-loud guide to embracing aging with wit and resilience. Dr. Rutland takes readers on a humorous journey through the aches, quirks, and grocery store adventures that come with growing older, inviting us all to face life’s inevitable changes with humor and heart. Plus, don’t miss the National Book Premiere event on November 18th, 2024 at Mt. Paran Church in Atlanta, GA. Come and celebrate the fun and exciting launch of this one-of-a-kind handbook on aging with style.

Join us for an exclusive look into Keep On Keeping On: How to Die Young...as Old as Possible, Dr. Mark Rutland’s laugh-out-loud guide to embracing aging with wit and resilience. Dr. Rutland takes readers on a humorous journey through the aches, quirks, and grocery store adventures that come with growing older, inviting us all to face life’s inevitable changes with humor and heart. Plus, don’t miss the National Book Premiere event on November 18th, 2024 at Mt. Paran Church in Atlanta, GA. Come and celebrate the fun and exciting launch of this one-of-a-kind handbook on aging with style.

Join us for an exclusive look into Keep On Keeping On: How to Die Young...as Old as Possible, Dr. Mark Rutland’s laugh-out-loud guide to embracing aging with wit and resilience. Dr. Rutland takes readers on a humorous journey through the aches, quirks, and grocery store adventures that come with growing older, inviting us all to face life’s inevitable changes with humor and heart. Plus, don’t miss the National Book Premiere event on November 18th, 2024 at Mt. Paran Church in Atlanta, GA. Come and celebrate the fun and exciting launch of this one-of-a-kind handbook on aging with style.

Join Dr. Mark Rutland as he journeys through the book of Genesis in this 14-part series, uncovering the foundational stories that shape our faith and understanding of God’s plan. In each episode, Dr. Rutland delves into the rich narratives of creation, covenant, and the lives of the patriarchs, offering profound insights and practical applications for your spiritual journey. Whether you're new to the Bible or seeking a deeper understanding of its earliest chapters, this series provides an engaging exploration of the timeless truths found in Genesis.

Join Dr. Mark Rutland as he journeys through the book of Genesis in this 14-part series, uncovering the foundational stories that shape our faith and understanding of God’s plan. In each episode, Dr. Rutland delves into the rich narratives of creation, covenant, and the lives of the patriarchs, offering profound insights and practical applications for your spiritual journey. Whether you're new to the Bible or seeking a deeper understanding of its earliest chapters, this series provides an engaging exploration of the timeless truths found in Genesis.

Join Dr. Mark Rutland as he journeys through the book of Genesis in this 14-part series, uncovering the foundational stories that shape our faith and understanding of God’s plan. In each episode, Dr. Rutland delves into the rich narratives of creation, covenant, and the lives of the patriarchs, offering profound insights and practical applications for your spiritual journey. Whether you're new to the Bible or seeking a deeper understanding of its earliest chapters, this series provides an engaging exploration of the timeless truths found in Genesis.

Join Dr. Mark Rutland as he journeys through the book of Genesis in this 14-part series, uncovering the foundational stories that shape our faith and understanding of God’s plan. In each episode, Dr. Rutland delves into the rich narratives of creation, covenant, and the lives of the patriarchs, offering profound insights and practical applications for your spiritual journey. Whether you're new to the Bible or seeking a deeper understanding of its earliest chapters, this series provides an engaging exploration of the timeless truths found in Genesis.

Join Dr. Mark Rutland as he journeys through the book of Genesis in this 14-part series, uncovering the foundational stories that shape our faith and understanding of God’s plan. In each episode, Dr. Rutland delves into the rich narratives of creation, covenant, and the lives of the patriarchs, offering profound insights and practical applications for your spiritual journey. Whether you're new to the Bible or seeking a deeper understanding of its earliest chapters, this series provides an engaging exploration of the timeless truths found in Genesis.

Join Dr. Mark Rutland as he journeys through the book of Genesis in this 14-part series, uncovering the foundational stories that shape our faith and understanding of God’s plan. In each episode, Dr. Rutland delves into the rich narratives of creation, covenant, and the lives of the patriarchs, offering profound insights and practical applications for your spiritual journey. Whether you're new to the Bible or seeking a deeper understanding of its earliest chapters, this series provides an engaging exploration of the timeless truths found in Genesis.

Join Dr. Mark Rutland as he journeys through the book of Genesis in this 14-part series, uncovering the foundational stories that shape our faith and understanding of God’s plan. In each episode, Dr. Rutland delves into the rich narratives of creation, covenant, and the lives of the patriarchs, offering profound insights and practical applications for your spiritual journey. Whether you're new to the Bible or seeking a deeper understanding of its earliest chapters, this series provides an engaging exploration of the timeless truths found in Genesis.

Join Dr. Mark Rutland as he journeys through the book of Genesis in this 14-part series, uncovering the foundational stories that shape our faith and understanding of God’s plan. In each episode, Dr. Rutland delves into the rich narratives of creation, covenant, and the lives of the patriarchs, offering profound insights and practical applications for your spiritual journey. Whether you're new to the Bible or seeking a deeper understanding of its earliest chapters, this series provides an engaging exploration of the timeless truths found in Genesis.

Join Dr. Mark Rutland as he journeys through the book of Genesis in this 14-part series, uncovering the foundational stories that shape our faith and understanding of God’s plan. In each episode, Dr. Rutland delves into the rich narratives of creation, covenant, and the lives of the patriarchs, offering profound insights and practical applications for your spiritual journey. Whether you're new to the Bible or seeking a deeper understanding of its earliest chapters, this series provides an engaging exploration of the timeless truths found in Genesis.

In this nine-part series, Dr. Mark Rutland shares with us what Spirit-empowered living looks like in our everyday lives. We will learn of the person, work, and ministry of the Holy Spirit and how the Holy Spirit operates in and through us to impact our world.

In this nine-part series, Dr. Mark Rutland shares with us what Spirit-empowered living looks like in our everyday lives. We will learn of the person, work, and ministry of the Holy Spirit and how the Holy Spirit operates in and through us to impact our world.

In this nine-part series, Dr. Mark Rutland shares with us what Spirit-empowered living looks like in our everyday lives. We will learn of the person, work, and ministry of the Holy Spirit and how the Holy Spirit operates in and through us to impact our world.

In this nine-part series, Dr. Mark Rutland shares with us what Spirit-empowered living looks like in our everyday lives. We will learn of the person, work, and ministry of the Holy Spirit and how the Holy Spirit operates in and through us to impact our world.

In this nine-part series, Dr. Mark Rutland shares with us what Spirit-empowered living looks like in our everyday lives. We will learn of the person, work, and ministry of the Holy Spirit and how the Holy Spirit operates in and through us to impact our world.

In this nine-part series, Dr. Mark Rutland shares with us what Spirit-empowered living looks like in our everyday lives. We will learn of the person, work, and ministry of the Holy Spirit and how the Holy Spirit operates in and through us to impact our world.

In this nine-part series, Dr. Mark Rutland shares with us what Spirit-empowered living looks like in our everyday lives. We will learn of the person, work, and ministry of the Holy Spirit and how the Holy Spirit operates in and through us to impact our world.

In this nine-part series, Dr. Mark Rutland shares with us what Spirit-empowered living looks like in our everyday lives. We will learn of the person, work, and ministry of the Holy Spirit and how the Holy Spirit operates in and through us to impact our world.

In this nine-part series, Dr. Mark Rutland shares with us what Spirit-empowered living looks like in our everyday lives. We will learn of the person, work, and ministry of the Holy Spirit and how the Holy Spirit operates in and through us to impact our world.

In this nine-part series, join Dr. Rutland as he embarks on a deep exploration of the lives, teachings, and legacies of Jesus and Moses. Moving beyond mere comparison and contrast, Dr. Rutland seeks profound insights and wisdom from the Holy Spirit, guiding listeners through a journey of spiritual discovery and transformation. From the foundational principles of faith to the intricacies of divine guidance, this series offers a rich tapestry of insights and lessons drawn from these iconic figures. Prepare to be inspired, challenged, and empowered as we delve into the timeless wisdom and teachings that continue to shape our understanding of spirituality and faith.