United Church Podcast

Have you ever felt like your pain was too deep for anyone to understand, even in church? In today’s message from our Jesus Too series, Pastor Leonce shares his story as a survivor of abuse and reminds us that scars don't make us weak. They are a testimony of strength, healing, and God's presence in our pain. This sermon invites you to begin the healing journey, find safe community, and discover that Jesus not only knows your wounds but offers hope, restoration, and resurrection. You are not alone. Healing is possible. And Jesus is closer than you think. If you or someone you know needs support, don't stay silent: ➡️ Talk to a pastor. ➡️ We partner with Cumberland Counseling Centers to provide trusted, faith-based counseling. ➡️ Need prayer? Click here. __________ Thank you for listening to United Church's podcast! Sermon Guide 5-Day Devotional Subscribe to our podcast for more messages of hope.

On this Easter Sunday, we launch our brand-new series "Jesus Too" with a sermon that speaks directly to the heart of human pain. In this message, Pastor Leonce reminds us that we are never truly alone because Jesus, too, has felt what we feel. And through His resurrection, He offers us hope, healing, and a new beginning. If you’ve ever wondered if God understands what you’re going through, this message is for you. It’s an invitation to lay down your burdens and discover the life-changing truth that Jesus not only empathizes—but overcomes. What part of Jesus’s story resonates most with yours? __________ Thank you for listening to United Church's podcast! Sermon Guide 5 Day Devotional New here? We’d love to connect with you! Visit https://united.online/ to learn more about us. Subscribe to our podcast for weekly sermons that will inspire and challenge you.

Has the word "Evangelical" lost its meaning? In this powerful message, Pastor Leonce calls out the growing confusion between political allegiance and spiritual identity. With raw honesty and biblical insight, he challenges the Church to wake up to a crisis: when 71% of believers prioritize party over pastors, what does that say about our faith? Drawing from Acts 6:8-15 and the bold stand of Stephen, this sermon is a call to return to a faith rooted in Jesus—not politics. It’s time to reclaim the word Evangelical and live out a Gospel that reflects love, truth, and courage. Listen now and ask yourself: Am I following Jesus… or something else? __________ Renovation Church is now UNITED CHURCH! New here? We’d love to connect with you! Visit https://united.online/ to learn more about us. Sermon Guide 5-Day Devotional Subscribe to our podcast for weekly sermons that will inspire and challenge you.

Is your church truly welcoming everyone? In this message from "The Jesus Revolution" series, Pastor Leonce dives into Acts 6:1–7 to reveal how the early Church faced division, cultural tension, and exclusion—and how they responded with unity, strategy, and Spirit-led leadership. Whether you’re a church leader, a believer longing for unity, or someone exploring faith, this message will inspire you to be part of the Jesus Revolution happening now. __________ Renovation Church is now UNITED CHURCH! New here? We’d love to connect with you! Visit https://united.online/ to learn more about us. Sermon Guide 5-Day Devotional Subscribe to our podcast for weekly sermons that will inspire and challenge you.

What happens when obeying God means going against human authority? In this sermon from "The Jesus Revolution" series, Pastor Leonce unpacks how the early church (Acts 5:17-42) faced persecution for preaching the Gospel—and why their bold faith still speaks to us today. If you’ve ever felt the tension between following Jesus and facing opposition, this message is for you. It’s time to embrace "good trouble"—the kind that honors God, stands against injustice, and boldly proclaims the truth. __________ Renovation Church is now UNITED CHURCH! New here? We’d love to connect with you! Visit https://united.online/ to learn more about us. Click here to dive deeper into Sunday's message with our 5-Day Devotional. Subscribe to our podcast for weekly sermons that will inspire and challenge you.

We all long to see healing and restoration in our communities, but the overwhelming need can make us feel powerless. Pastor Leonce kicks off The Jesus Revolution series with a reminder that we are created in God’s image—designed to bring hope, healing, and change to those around us. This Compassion Sunday, take a step of faith and change a child’s life through sponsorship. Your simple “yes” could be the miracle someone is praying for. 💙 Sponsor a child today: https://www.compassion.com/renovationchurch __________ Click here to dive deeper into Sunday's message with our 5-Day Devotional. Subscribe to our podcast for weekly sermons that will inspire and challenge you. Visit https://renovationchurch.com for more information.

Evangelism doesn’t have to be awkward or intimidating! This is evangelism for the rest of us—simple, natural, and powerful. In this message, Pastor Matt shares the Good-God-Gospel framework—a simple, biblical way to share Jesus. You don’t have to be a theologian or an expert—just someone willing to let your life speak and your words follow. __________ Dive deeper into Sunday's message with our 5-Day Devotional: https://renovationchurch.com/sermon-deep-dive/salt-and-light Subscribe to our podcast for weekly sermons that will inspire and challenge you. Visit https://renovationchurch.com for more information.

No one plans to ruin their marriage, but many fall into temptation without realizing it. In this final message of our "Vows" series, Pastor Leonce reveals the subtle dangers that can slowly erode relationships. He shares how small compromises lead to major regrets and why guarding your heart is essential in a world filled with temptation. Drawing from Jesus’ teachings in Matthew, this sermon unpacks practical steps to protect your heart, set healthy boundaries, and live with integrity—whether you’re married or single. Don’t let this mistake cost you your future. Listen in and take a stand for a stronger, God-honoring relationship. ___________ If you or someone you know is having marriage struggles or battling sexual addiction, there is hope. Our church partners with Cumberland Counseling Centers to offer Christ-centered support for couples facing challenges and individuals struggling with sexual addiction. Hope and healing is possible. Click here to learn more: https://renovationchurch.com/cumberland-counseling Dive deeper into this message with our 5-Day Devotional: https://renovationchurch.com/sermon-deep-dive/the-vow-of-purity Subscribe to our podcast for weekly sermons that will inspire and challenge you. Visit https://renovationchurch.com for more information.

Is marriage just a contract based on emotions and convenience? Or is it something deeper—something sacred? In this sermon, Pastor Leonce and Breanna dive into the profound difference between a contract and a covenant, challenging the modern view of marriage. If you’re married, single, or hoping to be married one day, this message will challenge and encourage you to build a relationship that stands the test of time. Don’t miss this word that can transform your marriage! ___________ Dive deeper into this message with our 5-Day Devotional: https://renovationchurch.com/sermon-deep-dive/the-vow-of-partnership Subscribe to our podcast for weekly sermons that will inspire and challenge you. Visit https://renovationchurch.com for more information.

Why do so many marriages start with passion but lose their spark over time? In this must-hear message from our "Vows" series, Pastor Leonce and Breanna share how to reignite love and intimacy in your marriage through the Vow of Pursuit. Learn why intentionality is key, how to keep pursuing your spouse like you did in the beginning, and what the Bible says about lasting love. Whether you're married, engaged, or hoping for a strong relationship one day, this message will equip you with biblical wisdom to build a thriving, God-centered marriage. Don’t let your marriage grow cold! Listen now and discover how to cultivate a love that lasts. ___________ Dive deeper into this message with our 5-Day Devotional: https://renovationchurch.com/sermon-deep-dive/the-vow-of-pursuit Subscribe to our podcast for weekly sermons that will inspire and challenge you. Visit https://renovationchurch.com for more information.

Is your marriage struggling? Are you looking for a way to build a stronger, healthier relationship? In this message, Pastor Leonce kicks off our Vows series with the Vow of Priority—a critical commitment to putting God first in your marriage and life. Listen in to uncover how shifting priorities can transform your relationship and bring lasting fulfillment. ___________ Dive deeper into this message with our 5-Day Devotional: https://renovationchurch.com/sermon-deep-dive/the-vow-of-priority Subscribe to our podcast for weekly sermons that will inspire and challenge you. Visit https://renovationchurch.com for more information.

Are you feeling lonely, even in a crowded world? In this message, Pastor Leonce reveals why we were created for connection and how true friendships and community impact our happiness, health, and faith. Discover the key to building deep, meaningful relationships that bring life and purpose. Don’t settle for surface-level connections—step into the community God designed for you! ___________ Dive deeper into this message with our 5-Day Devotional: https://renovationchurch.com/sermon-deep-dive/find-your-people Subscribe to our podcast for weekly sermons that will inspire and challenge you. Visit https://renovationchurch.com for more information.

No one plans to wreck their life, but small, repeated choices can lead to destruction. In this last sermon from our Habits series, Pastor Leonce unpacks the story of Samson and how his unchecked habits led to his downfall. What habits are shaping your future? Are they drawing you closer to God or pulling you away? Discover how to break free from destructive patterns, surrender your struggles to Jesus, and step into the new beginning God has for you. ___________ Dive deeper into Sunday's message each week with our 5-Day Devotionals: https://renovationchurch.com/sermon-deep-dive Subscribe to our podcast for weekly sermons that will inspire and challenge you. Visit https://renovationchurch.com for more information.

Are your habits shaping the person God wants you to be? In this powerful message, Pastor Leonce unpacks the secret behind Daniel’s keystone habit. Learn how starting small can lead to profound transformation and hear practical tips and inspiring anecdotes to help you build habits that align with God’s purpose for your life. Whether you're looking to grow spiritually, thrive in your daily life, or take a step closer to Jesus, this message offers a roadmap for meaningful change. Ready to take the first step? Listen now and discover the power of habits in shaping your identity and deepening your walk with Jesus. ___________ Dive deeper into Sunday's message each week with our 5-Day Devotionals: https://renovationchurch.com/sermon-deep-dive Subscribe to our podcast for weekly sermons that will inspire and challenge you. Visit https://renovationchurch.com for more information.

Kicking off a brand-new series "Habits", Pastor Leonce unpacks the profound role habits play in shaping our lives. Drawing from the Apostle Paul’s struggles in Romans, this message explores the internal battle between our desires and actions, a frustration we all experience when striving for meaningful change. Listen in as this sermon will help you reframe your understanding of personal growth, build supportive systems, and root your transformation in a relationship with Jesus. Don’t miss this opportunity to realign your habits and unlock a thriving life! ___________ Dive deeper into Sunday's message each week with our 5-Day Devotionals: https://renovationchurch.com/sermon-deep-dive Subscribe to our podcast for weekly sermons that will inspire and challenge you. Visit https://renovationchurch.com for more information.

Pastor Matt kicks off the new year by exploring what it means to be spiritually healthy and why it’s essential for loving like Jesus. Rooted in Matthew 5:48, where Jesus calls His followers to be perfect—complete in love—this sermon challenges us to mature in our ability to love unconditionally, just as God loves all people. As we step into 2025, be encouraged to prioritize spiritual growth, deepen our love for others, and leave a lasting legacy that reflects God’s Kingdom. ___________ Subscribe to our podcast for weekly sermons that will inspire and challenge you. Visit https://renovationchurch.com for more information.

As we step into a new year, Pastor Leonce challenges us to reflect on life’s most profound question: What is the meaning of it all? Drawing from the wisdom of Psalm 90:16-17, he explores the deep human need for purpose and the emptiness that often accompanies modern distractions and worldly pursuits. If you’re searching for purpose or feeling unfulfilled, this sermon will guide you to find meaning in Jesus and live a life that truly matters. Listen now and step into 2024 with clarity and purpose. ___________ Subscribe to our podcast for weekly sermons that will inspire and challenge you. New to Renovation Church? We’d love to connect with you! Visit https://renovationchurch.com/new-to-atl for more information.

Join us on this Christmas Eve as Pastor Leonce shares a message about hope—a gift we all long for, especially during the holiday season. In a world filled with challenges, this "living hope" offers peace, stability, and renewal. Learn how to cultivate a life rooted in faith through prayer, scripture, and worship while embracing the Christmas story’s transformative power. ___________ Subscribe to our podcast for weekly sermons that will inspire and challenge you. New to Renovation Church? We’d love to connect with you! Visit https://renovationchurch.com/new-to-atl for more information.

In this sermon titled "Love", you'll explore how love is at the very heart of the Christmas story—God's love for humanity expressed through the birth of Jesus. Pastor Leonce challenges us to embrace this love in practical ways: by forgiving, serving, showing kindness, and putting others first. Let this message inspire you to practice and receive Jesus’ love this season, creating a ripple effect that can transform your life, your relationships, and your community. ___________ Subscribe to our podcast for weekly sermons that will inspire and challenge you. To learn more about Christmas at Renovation Church, visit renovationchurch.com/christmas

In this sermon "Joy", Pastor Matt explores the true meaning of joy during the Christmas season, drawing from John 15:11. While holiday happiness can often feel fleeting, Pastor Matt reminds us of the unshakable joy found in a relationship with Jesus. This Christmas, apply this practical three-step approach to experiencing this lasting joy. Don’t settle for fleeting moments of happiness. Embrace the unshakable joy that only Jesus offers and discover how the season can become a time of deeper connection with Him. Listen in and invite someone to join you in finding joy that lasts all year long! ___________ Subscribe to our podcast for weekly sermons that will inspire and challenge you. To learn more about Christmas at Renovation Church, visit renovationchurch.com/christmas

Have you lost the sense of wonder that made Christmas magical? In this powerful message, "Peace", Pastor Leonce invites us to rediscover the awe and joy of the season as an antidote to the cynicism that often creeps into adulthood. At the heart of this message is a reminder that Jesus’ peace is more than just the absence of conflict. It’s a holistic, transformative calm that can alleviate anxiety and bring true fulfillment. Listen in to this sermon for practical ways to cultivate this peace. Whether you’re a follower of Christ or exploring faith, this message will inspire you to rediscover wonder and live in harmony with others. ___________ Subscribe to our podcast for weekly sermons that will inspire and challenge you. To learn more about Christmas at Renovation Church, visit renovationchurch.com/christmas

Drawing from Paul’s message in 1 Corinthians, Pastor Leonce challenges us to reflect on what it means to become “all things to all people” for the sake of the Gospel. This sermon "Be All Things" invites us to ask: Are we willing to give up our comforts and preferences to reach others for Jesus? Listen in to be inspired to embrace the call to selfless adaptability for the Kingdom of God. ___________ Subscribe to our podcast for weekly sermons that will inspire and challenge you. Learn more about the Harvest Initiative by visiting https://renovationchurch.com/harvest

Have you ever felt the nudge to share your faith but held back, unsure how to start? In this sermon "Tear the Roof Off", Pastor Leonce shares his powerful testimony of how a friend named Judah’s unwavering dedication to Jesus led him to faith. This sermon will unpack the challenges many believers face in sharing the gospel and the profound openness many non-believers have to hearing about Jesus. This message reminds us that when we’ve experienced the transformative power of Christ, we are compelled to go to great lengths to invite others into His presence. Discover how one invitation can change a life forever and be inspired to step boldly into conversations about faith, knowing the eternal impact of sharing Jesus with others. Scripture Reference: Mark 2:1-5 ___________ Subscribe to our podcast for weekly sermons that will inspire and challenge you. Learn more about the Harvest Initiative by visiting https://renovationchurch.com/harvest

In this Harvest series sermon "Work with Jesus," Pastor Leonce explores Jesus’ vision for humanity, encouraging us to respond with compassion to those who are distressed and dejected. Through Matthew 9:35-38, we’re reminded that our life with Jesus is fulfilled when we embrace His mission—not as a duty, but as a beautiful invitation to help restore the world. In a time when so many face anxiety, fear, and loneliness, this message will challenge you to reach out with hope and connection. Whether you’re a committed believer or exploring faith, you’re invited to experience the love and compassion found in Jesus—a decision that can transform your life. ___________ Subscribe to our podcast for weekly sermons that will inspire and challenge you. Learn more about the Harvest Initiative by visiting https://renovationchurch.com/harvest

In this Sunday's sermon, Pastor Matt Adair dives into the topic of greed and the misconception that life is defined by what we own. Drawing insights from the Gospel of Luke, Pastor Matt examines the societal pressures that drive our constant pursuit of more—whether it's wealth, success, or status—often leaving us feeling empty and dissatisfied. He highlights how the relentless desire for more can trap us, urging us to challenge the idea that success equals accumulation. This sermon will encourage you to embrace a life of simplicity and trust in God’s provision, inspiring us to live generously and prioritize what truly matters. Listen now to discover how shifting our focus from possessions to relationships can lead to a more fulfilled and joyful life. ___________ Subscribe to our podcast for weekly sermons that will inspire and challenge you, including our upcoming Harvest series starting on November 17th. For more information on Renovation Church, visit https://renovationchurch.com/

In the final message of Among Kings, Pastor Leonce draws from Daniel's story in Daniel 6:10-28 to inspire a faith that stands firm, even under pressure. He challenges us to go beyond resisting political pressures, calling for unity, compassion, and a commitment to Jesus' teachings over division. With a call to align our choices with Christ’s love and justice, this message equips us to be agents of peace and strength in a divided world. Don’t miss this powerful conclusion—listen now! __________ Click here for all of our weekly 5-day devotionals for this series: https://renovationchurch.com/sermon-deep-dive Prefer to watch our sermons? Head to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@RenovationChurch For more information on Renovation Church, visit renovationchurch.com

In this powerful sermon, “A Distinguished Life”, Pastor Leonce explores how we can maintain a godly reputation in a world of political division, drawing inspiration from Daniel’s story (Daniel 5:1-6:9) of unwavering faithfulness in a constantly shifting political landscape. By contrasting Daniel’s integrity with that of modern figures, Pastor Leonce urges us to cultivate a reputation that reflects the Spirit of God rather than yielding to societal pressures. This sermon emphasizes how living out our convictions can inspire and influence others deeply. Listen in as we commit to a life that honors God, bringing His love and truth to a divided world. __________ Click here for our weekly 5-day devotionals: https://renovationchurch.com/sermon-deep-dive Prefer to watch our sermons? Head to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@RenovationChurch For more information on Renovation Church, visit renovationchurch.com

In this sermon, "When Sovereignty Isn't Enough," Pastor Leonce explores God's sovereignty in a politically divided world, drawing from Daniel’s experience serving under King Nebuchadnezzar, a ruler he didn’t choose. The message highlights the importance of inviting God's sovereignty into our daily lives to find peace and make confident decisions, even amid external chaos. Tune in to be challenged and encouraged to show compassion toward leaders, even those whose values may conflict with ours, while staying committed to God’s principles. __________ Click here for our weekly 5-day devotionals: https://renovationchurch.com/sermon-deep-dive Prefer to watch our sermons? Head to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@RenovationChurch For more information on Renovation Church, visit renovationchurch.com

In this sermon, we dive into Daniel 3:13-18, the story of Daniel's friends who courageously refused to bow down to King Nebuchadnezzar's statue, standing firm in their faith despite the threat of death. Their unwavering devotion to God reminds us that true worship belongs to Him alone, not to political figures or parties. Get ready to be challenged to reflect on how misplaced worship, or placing anything above God, can lead to conflict and personal struggles. Listen in as we explore how prioritizing our commitment to God above all else brings His presence through every trial. __________ Click here for our weekly 5-day devotionals: https://renovationchurch.com/sermon-deep-dive Prefer to watch our sermons? Head to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@RenovationChurch For more information on Renovation Church, visit renovationchurch.com

As we navigate our politically divided world, the central question is: how do we maintain peace and seek wisdom when circumstances are challenging? The narrative of Daniel interpreting King Nebuchadnezzar’s troubling dream illustrates that wisdom comes from God. In a moment of crisis, Daniel chooses to pray and seek divine guidance rather than succumb to panic or fear. It may be difficult to resist the fear often used by political leaders to manipulate and divide us. We are called, instead, to remain calm, seek God's wisdom through prayer, and keep our focus on His eternal Kingdom. Whether you're navigating political or personal turmoil, tune in to receive practical guidance on how to stay rooted in faith and find peace in troubled times. __________ Click here for our weekly 5-day devotionals: https://renovationchurch.com/sermon-deep-dive Prefer to watch our sermons? Head to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@RenovationChurch For more information on Renovation Church, visit renovationchurch.com

We continue with part two of our seven-week series, Among Kings: How to be a Whole Christian in a Politically Divided World. Pastor Leonce uses the story of Daniel 1:8-21 to highlight the importance of choosing allegiance to God over earthly leaders, even in challenging times. Listen in to explore how Daniel's integrity in Babylon serves as a guide for us today, urging us to resist cultural pressures, trust in God's control, and take practical steps toward deeper faith. Click here for our weekly 5-day devotionals: https://renovationchurch.com/sermon-deep-dive _________________ Prefer to watch our sermons? Head to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@RenovationChurch For more information on Renovation Church, visit renovationchurch.com

We kick off our seven-week sermon series, Among Kings, exploring how to live as a faithful Christian in a politically divided world. Using the biblical story of Daniel (Daniel 1:1-8), who served under four different kings he didn't choose, we examine the tension between faith and politics. Daniel’s life provides a powerful example of maintaining integrity, faithfulness, and trust in God, even under leaders he disagreed with. Listen in to discover how we can navigate life when political leaders are not of our choosing, and how our ultimate loyalty is to God's kingdom.

On Foster Care Sunday, we welcomed WinShape Homes to share about the importance of foster care. We also heard moving testimonies from foster and adoption parents, showing the impact of opening their homes to children in need. James 1:27 reminds us to "look after orphans and widows in their distress," encouraging us to live out this call to care for the vulnerable. Interested in learning more? Join WinShape's informational session on October 13th to explore how you can get involved in foster care or adoption. Sign up today: https://tinyurl.com/d35jwp6h

Hebrews 10:23-25 emphasizes the importance of holding onto hope and encouraging one another in love and good deeds, especially during times of societal upheaval. Unfortunately, the growing trend of isolation among Americans can lead to a loss of community and faith. During challenging times, the solution is to gather more frequently rather than retreat into solitude. Tune in as Pastor Doug reminds us that meeting together fosters hope and resilience in navigating life's difficulties. 2024 Fall Semester Small Group season is now open! Sign up on the Church Center app or click here: https://tinyurl.com/bwams65t For more information on Renovation Church, visit renovationchurch.com

Churches want to grow, to meet people far from God and introduce them to Jesus; to help them take first steps and next steps in practicing Jesus’ way of life; to invite them to participate in our common work of helping each other grow healthy and mature so we can do the work that God has given us to do as his people and his partners. This church wants to grow. You want to grow, healthy and whole. You want to be the person God lovingly made you to be. But when churches want to grow, there's often something that's missing: churches struggle with the strength of their relational connections. Tune in as we explore the fact that growing together is not automatic and provide practical steps on how you can grow through life-giving relationships.

Duplicity is defined as deceptive, double-dealing, funny business, or fraud. At its core, duplicity is failing to be who we say we are. We need to be keenly aware of the dangers of duplicity. Though this may seem aimed more at those of you who follow Jesus, if you are not a Christian, there is something helpful for you, too. You want to be known as a person who is trustworthy and deals honestly with people. I know you do. So whether you are a Christian or not, there is resonance here. We need to be keenly aware of the danger of being duplicitous in our work. We must be keenly aware of the dangers of duplicity in our marriage. We must be keenly aware of the dangers of duplicity in our friendships, parenting and politics. But more than any other area, we need to be keenly aware of the dangers of dealing falsely with God. Listen in as we continue in The Jesus Revolution sermon series and dive into how to live a life of integrity. For more information on Renovation Church, visit renovationchurch.com.

Your heart desires to share your person and possessions and love people freely. After all, Jesus said, “​It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35). If Jesus has changed your life, I believe you aspire to be like Him and live by His words. But here is our reality: Our culture has groomed us to keep instead of release. We intuitively know that there is little satisfaction beyond a certain point of financial comfortability, but my goodness, this hurdle of keeping and collecting keeps getting in the way. I know that can sound nebulous, but it is the best way I can say it. Proximity to Jesus and encounters with the Holy Spirit freed me to move from keeping to sharing, sharing my person and possessions. We see the same in Luke’s record of the early church. The encounters with God’s Spirit motivated the first followers of Jesus to be bold in telling people about Jesus and incredibly open-handed with their person and possessions. The same can happen for all of us. Tune in for the continuation of "The Jesus Revolution" sermon series as Pastor Leonce uncovers three observations about the moment Luke records in Acts 4. If you embrace these observations, you will find the same freedom they did.

Luke tells us that Peter and John showed extraordinary courage under fire during the interrogation in Acts 4:29-31. Boldly, they told the religious leaders that there was no salvation apart from Jesus. Peter sharing Jesus’ resurrection caused issues for the Sadducees. They did not believe in a resurrection of any kind and certainly could not ascribe to a resurrected Messiah, especially that Messiah being Jesus, whom they had just crucified. Here is a question for us to ponder together. What happened the last time you felt that talking about Jesus would cost you? Did you go quiet? Did you retreat? Did you pray for God to get you out of the situation? Tune in as we explore the question of why we should pray for boldness.

We're continuing our sermon series on The Jesus Revolution! The last time we were in Acts, we saw that the tone of Luke’s record shifts. Until this point in Acts four, there had been no resistance to Jesus’ people. Indeed, the picture is of the general acceptance and favor given to them by the people. Yet, in chapter four, the picture changes. The political leaders, posing as religious figures, turn against Jesus’ people, acting oppositional and breathing threats. What do we do when our faith in Jesus meets opposition to Jesus? Is there any threat that should cause us to stop telling people what we have experienced and seen in our relationship with Jesus?

How can we, in our own contexts, prioritise the well-being of others? The question is born of what I believe is your deep desire: to put others before yourself. I believe that beneath many layers of cultural sediment, our deepest desire is to regard others' interests over our own, particularly if we practice the way of Jesus. Our issue in activating that desire is that our host culture taught us to prioritise ourselves. We have been socialised into self-focus. Family, I have been socialised the same way, into the same behaviour. I know that the struggle is real, and very often, I want to put my preferences, interests, and myself above everyone else, even my own family. But when we received Jesus and, by the Holy Spirit, adopted His will and way, we were re-socialised out of our host culture and into Jesus’ culture. In Jesus’ culture, we put others first because others matter.

The vocational calling of all of God’s people is to represent Him in this world as He brings the kingdom fully to fruition. We are integral to God’s plan to reconcile all things to Himself, and get as many people as possible back to Him. If you practise the way of Jesus, I believe you want to accept this mandate. You want to see your one more come to know God’s love. You want to invite them to meet Jesus and His people. But we have an issue. Though we want to see our friends, family, and neighbours know Jesus' love for them, we do not share the good news or invite them to worship. Why? We fear rejection and alienation. I get it. There have been extended periods in my life while I was a pastor, and the only time I invited others to know Jesus’ love and Jesus’ people was when I was speaking publicly. I have had extended seasons where I did not attempt to interpersonally introduce people to Jesus and His people.

Life is simply too busy to serve. Consider a typical week: juggling work deadlines, family responsibilities, and social commitments. By the time the weekend arrives, the thought of adding one more task, like serving at church, can feel overwhelming. It's easy to feel like there's no room left to give And yet an undeniable truth calls to us—Serving is Essential to The Way of Jesus. I understand this challenge personally. Before I was ever on staff at a church, I served. I remember one particular weekend when I had a major project due at work; we had a brand new baby on the way, I was in a Criminal Justice Master's programme, and I was coaching College and High School wrestling. I felt stretched thin and wondered how I could possibly find the energy to serve at church. But I realised that in those moments of exhaustion, serving brought a sense of fulfilment and connection that nothing else could. Despite our busyness and challenges, the Scriptures clearly state that the primary way we can mirror Jesus and make a difference in other people's lives is by activating our gifts and serving. So, how do we overcome these obstacles and create space for service in our lives? Here’s a practical plan to help us do just that: Model Jesus: Follow His example of serving others. Create Margin: Make space in your life by leaning on Jesus. Discover Your Purpose: Understand your unique gifts and calling. Use Your Gifts Well: Serve others with excellence.

As much as I believe you want every guest to feel like your church is alive and they can belong, we have an opposing force to that desire so strong that it is crippling the big “C” Church as a whole—the American way of life. In his article, The Misunderstood Reason Millions of Americans Stopped Going to Church, Jake Meador writes, “Contemporary America simply isn’t set up to promote mutuality, care, or common life.” Simply put the American way conflicts with the way of Jesus. Consider one of the composite characters in the book The Great Dechurching. The character is described as a 30-something woman who grew up in church. She meets a less religiously engaged guy; they get married, and, at some point early in their marriage, after their first or second child is born, they stop going to church. Another case is someone entering early or mid-career, working a high-stress job that they feel demands a 60—or 70-hour workweek. Add to that 15 hours of commute time, and suddenly, about two-thirds of their waking hours in the week are already accounted for. After a few weeks of either scenario, and many others we could examine, the thought of going to church on Sunday and creating a hospitable environment for someone else feels like a burden. The underlying challenge for many of us is that our lives are stretched like a rubber band about to snap, and church attendance and participation end up feeling like an item on a checklist that’s already too long. The merry-go-round of related emotions leaves us feeling guilty but justified. We feel guilty because we know what we should do, but we feel justified because life is what it is. But a vibrant, life-giving church requires more, not less, time and energy from its members. Being a part of a life-giving church invites us to prioritise one another over our careers, prayer and time reading scripture over accomplishment, coming to church and creating hospitable environments over a “slow Sunday.” We host an eternity-changing event every week, and if we follow Jesus' example, we must be good hosts in our homes and not let the American way get in the way of the way of Jesus.

Christianity is fundamentally an outward-facing faith. Based on Jesus' last command on this Earth, I say that we should make disciples of all nations. [Matthew 28:18-20] The beauty of that command is that it is very direct and vague. It tells us what to do. It does not tell us how to do it. This has given the church, at large, the freedom to adapt its local context while simultaneously holding on to the essentials. Because of our context here in the States, most people's journey toward Jesus begins when they meet a Christian who is an active part of a local church. That Christian invites them to come to Sunday worship. They experience Jesus and His people; we hope this becomes the jumping-off point for their spiritual journey with Jesus. So, for those of us who have friends, family, neighbors, and coworkers we love who don’t yet follow Jesus, we want to create a church environment that those we love will want to return.

The American culture is working tirelessly to make your life more siloed, isolated, and disconnected from community so that you will depend on it for your purpose and satisfaction. In this host culture we all live in, there is no greater problem that we face than a siloed, isolated existence. From the rise in depression, the rise in suicide, political polarization, and addiction, to the extreme beliefs that people hold with conviction no matter how it conflicts with reality… I could keep going — it is all amplified by the extreme level of isolation and disconnected lives our culture wants us to live. Here is what I find fascinating; I don’t have to spend any time convincing you about this. Nearly everyone hearing this would go yeah. The truth is we all pretty much resent the way this life is but feel powerless to do anything about it. Short of buying a plot of land in South Dakota and starting a commune with a group of friends, getting out of this way of life feels impossible. So, for most people, the answer is just apathy. I need you to know that what you feel here is not wrong. This way of life that our host culture wants us to live is the opposite of God’s design for us. The Bible, and specifically Jesus, believes that every person should be part of a unified community where they can love and be loved.

You will never be a perfect mother, and you will never be everything your child needs, but you can be faithful to the task of raising your children in the way they should go, loving them in the way that they are, and trusting Jesus with the rest. So today, I invite you to consider three things I learned from my mother and watch in my wife, which I hope bring new joy to your motherhood journey. It goes without saying that I am not pedestooling them as the paragon of motherhood, but they are the two moms I know best!

“Giving is the greatest pleasure in life.” - Julius Rosenwald No matter where you are on your spiritual journey, we all want to live like this. We all want to be people who bless others with that level of impact, joy, and dedication. As we read in proverbs earlier, we want to be a soul of blessing. As inspiring as that story is, and just as much as we might aspire to be that type of person, there is an equal counter-motivator we deal with. Giving feels like losing. Whether we are in touch with the feeling itself or not, I imagine if you did a quick inventory of your heart, you would find resonance there. Giving—for many of us—feels like a loss. We might feel we are losing out on something we want or think we need. We might feel a loss of a greater sense of security. Or perhaps a loss of control. Whatever it is, when faced with the prospect treating our resources the way the Bible describes, our immediate feeling is often... loss. To some extent this is natural, when we go to the store and give our money, we get our bags immediately. We see where the $100 or more went. Giving to God might not immediately yield a return, so it might feel like you didn’t get anything back. Even though God promises that everything we give to Him will be returned in exponentially greater ways, our inability to delay gratification has hamstrung us.

We wonder how we will avoid boredom in eternity because we have been taught to believe eternity is an immaterial realm where we don’t eat, drink, play, create or relate—we just worship all day. Living with those beliefs can leave us feeling confused and unsure about eternity, and no one should have to be unsure of what the hope of eternity is. The Scriptures teach an incredible continuity between this world and the one to come. Discovering this in Scripture has not only strengthened my faith and excitement about eternity, but it has also given me new language to share that hope with those who are far from God, and I believe it will do the same for you. Today, as it has been each week, will not be comprehensive enough to answer every question you might have about life after life after death or, more simply, life after Heaven.

The problem of Hell in our time is twofold: 1. The Bible is less clear on the nature of Hell than on its existence. 2. The word Hell conjures up images in our mind gained more from medieval imagery than from the Scriptures and the earliest Christian writings. Just as many were brought up to think of God as a bearded old man or the “big guy in the sky” stopped believing in that image and so stopped believing in God, there are many who were taught to think of Hell as a literal underground location full of worms and fire, or as a “torture chamber” and so decided that when they stopped believing in that, they stopped believing in Hell. However, if we are indeed Christians, we do not have the choice to reject believing in something captured throughout Scripture. Even Evangelical Universalists believe in the existence of Hell and that people will go there. So we are left with one choice—search the Scriptures to try and discern the most biblical understanding of Hell’s nature. I believe most everyone wants that understanding to some degree or another. I would imagine, most of all, we want to be relieved of anything that doesn't line up with the Scriptures, like rage-filled preaching about medieval imagery and calling it hell.

In the previous section of John’s Gospel, Jesus spoke directly to Peter. Now, he broadens his focus to include the other disciples, for they, too, are troubled—not because they rush toward pain, disgrace, shame, or crucifixion but because they are confused and uncertain of what Jesus means about His imminent departure. Jesus’ talk about departure and denial disturbed them greatly. It is no wonder the Eleven are profoundly upset. The way the disciples are to calm their hearts, Jesus spells out for them—Believe in God; believe also in me. Another way to say it is to trust God and trust me. They can only find real hope and confidence by focusing on God rather than themselves. The reason He gives for leaving them is a promise—He is leaving to prepare a place for them. His departure is to their advantage. Yes, He is going away, but He is going away to make a home for them. The language Jesus employs here—Father’s house and rooms—is used in many Jewish sources when speaking of Heaven. Since Heaven is pictured here as the Father’s house, it is more natural to think of ‘dwelling places’ within a home such as rooms or suites in a large resort, not individual mansions. The point, of course, is not the extravagance of each suite but the fact that Jesus is making such ample provision that there is more than enough space for every one of Jesus’ friends to join Him in his Father’s home. Interestingly, this begins to answer our question: What is Heaven?