Episodios

  • Simon Says wk3

    Simon Says wk3
    Jan 20 2026
    Simon Says: Lessons from Peter's Faith Journey In the third installment of our series, Simon Says, we delve deeper into the life of Simon Peter, a disciple known for his bold yet flawed faith. This week's sermon focuses on the theme of maintaining focus on Jesus, even amidst life's storms. The Scene on the Sea of Galilee Our journey begins with Matthew 14:22-33, where Peter experiences both triumph and failure while walking on water. After Jesus feeds the 5,000, He sends the disciples ahead on a boat while He prays alone. As a storm brews, Jesus walks on water towards the struggling disciples. Mistaking Him for a ghost, they are terrified until Jesus reassures them. Peter, ever eager, asks Jesus to command him to walk on water too. With Jesus' invitation, Peter steps out of the boat, initially walking towards Jesus. However, the moment he shifts his focus from Jesus to the wind and waves, doubt creeps in, and he begins to sink. Jesus saves him, but not without pointing out his "little faith" and questioning his doubt. Insights into Faith Saving Faith vs. Living Faith The sermon distinguishes between two types of faith: Saving Faith: This is the initial trust in Jesus that justifies us and connects us with God. It is the root of our salvation, a gift of grace that requires nothing from us but belief in Jesus' sacrifice. Living Faith: Unlike saving faith, living faith requires action. It is the faith we live by, animating our lives and guiding us to walk by faith, not by sight. Living faith is about obedience, trust, and sacrifice, leading to our transformation and sanctification. Lessons from Peter's Experience Peter's water-walking adventure teaches us about the nuances of living faith. Despite his initial boldness, Peter's faith falters when he diverts his gaze from Jesus. This moment illustrates how living faith can ebb and flow, influenced by our focus and external distractions. Focus on Jesus: Peter's failure came when he focused on the waves instead of Jesus. This shift led to doubt and fear, which are antithetical to living faith. To maintain our living faith, we must keep our eyes on Jesus, especially when stepping out of our comfort zones. Common Pitfalls: The sermon identifies three reasons why Peter might have taken his eyes off Jesus: Self-reliance: Attempting to navigate the waves on his own strength. Overthinking: Second-guessing his decision to walk on water. Pride: Seeking approval from others instead of focusing on Jesus. Each of these pitfalls centers around a shift in focus from Jesus to self, leading to a weakened faith. Conclusion The story of Peter walking on water is a powerful reminder of the importance of living faith. We are called to step out in faith, but we must remain focused on Jesus to sustain that faith. As believers, we should examine our lives to ensure that our faith is active and alive, rooted in Jesus and bearing the fruit of transformation. In closing, the sermon invites us to reflect on our faith journey. Do we possess saving faith, trusting in Jesus for salvation? Are we walking by living faith, keeping our gaze fixed on Him despite life's challenges? As we ponder these questions, let us strive to keep our eyes on Jesus, ensuring that our faith remains vibrant and steadfast.
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    38 m
  • Simon Says wk2

    Simon Says wk2
    Jan 13 2026
    Simon Says: Lessons from Simon Peter In this week's sermon, titled "Simon Says," we continued our exploration of the life and lessons of Simon Peter, the disciple who was both deeply flawed and profoundly faithful. This week, we focused on the event when Simon Peter walked on water, a story that offers profound insights into faith, courage, and obedience. The Story of Walking on Water The sermon draws from Matthew 14:22-33, where Jesus walks on water and invites Peter to join Him. This miraculous event occurs after a long day of ministry, where Jesus had just fed the 5,000. Seeking solitude and prayer, Jesus sends His disciples ahead across the Sea of Galilee. As a storm arises, Jesus walks on the water to meet them, prompting fear among the disciples. Simon Peter's Boldness Peter’s response to Jesus walking on the water is a pivotal moment. Unlike the other disciples, who were paralyzed by fear, Peter boldly asks Jesus to invite him onto the water. When Jesus says, "Come," Peter steps out of the boat and walks toward Him. This act of faith is a testament to Peter’s desire to follow Jesus, even into the unknown. Lessons on Faith and Fear Pastor Chris emphasized that Peter’s initial success in walking on water was due to his faith and focus on Jesus. However, when Peter notices the wind and waves, fear overtakes him, and he begins to sink. This illustrates a powerful lesson: faith requires focus on Jesus, not on the surrounding storms. Fear distorts perspective: Fear can choke out faith, making us lose sight of Jesus' power and presence. Obedience may lead to storms: The disciples were in the storm because they obeyed Jesus, reminding us that obedience does not always lead to smooth sailing. God’s presence in the storm: Jesus comes to the disciples in their time of need, showing that God may not calm every storm but will always calm His children with His presence. Practical Applications Pray Bold Prayers Following Peter’s example, believers are encouraged to pray big, bold prayers. Like Peter, we should ask for opportunities to join God in His work. This involves stepping out in faith when God calls, trusting that He will provide the strength and means to accomplish His purposes. Get Out of the Boat The "boat" symbolizes safety and comfort. Peter’s willingness to leave the boat represents a call to leave our comfort zones to experience the fullness of life with God. It’s a reminder that true faith sometimes requires taking risks and stepping into the unknown. Overcoming Fear By focusing on Jesus and His call, believers can overcome fear. The sermon highlights that fear often prevents us from experiencing the adventure of faith. Yet, when we trust in Jesus and step out in faith, we can experience His power and presence in profound ways. Conclusion The message concludes with a challenge to live out our faith boldly, praying for God’s guidance and stepping out in obedience when He calls. For those who do not yet follow Jesus, the invitation is open to trust in Him, who left His heavenly comfort to walk on water and ultimately to the cross for our salvation. Let us be inspired by Peter’s example to live courageously, trusting in the One who is always with us, even in the storm.
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    46 m
  • Simon Says Wk1

    Simon Says Wk1
    Jan 6 2026
    Simon Says: Lessons from Simon Peter As we step into the New Year, we embark on an exciting journey through a new sermon series titled Simon Says, focusing on the life and lessons of Simon Peter, one of Jesus’ most prominent disciples. This series explores how Simon Peter’s experiences and responses can guide us toward spiritual transformation. Introduction to Simon Peter Simon Peter, a fisherman by trade, was introduced to Jesus by his brother Andrew. This pivotal moment is captured in John 1:40–42, where Andrew, convinced that Jesus is the Messiah, brings Simon to Him. Jesus immediately sees Simon’s potential and declares that he will be called Peter, meaning “rock,” pointing to a future transformation. The Call to Obedience One of the key themes in Simon Peter’s life is obedience. In Luke 5:1–11, we witness a miraculous event that underscores the importance of obeying Jesus, even when it feels inconvenient or illogical. After a fruitless night of fishing, Simon follows Jesus’ instruction to cast the nets again. The result is an overwhelming catch. This act of obedience, despite doubt, leads to a deeper revelation of Jesus’ authority and becomes a defining moment in Simon’s life. Lessons in Obedience Obey in the Little Things Simon’s willingness to let Jesus use his boat, though inconvenient, set the stage for a greater miracle. Small acts of obedience often open the door to significant spiritual growth. Obey When It Doesn’t Make Sense Simon’s decision to fish again, despite his professional experience telling him otherwise, highlights the need to trust Jesus even when His instructions defy logic. Obedience, even when mixed with uncertainty, can lead to clearer vision and deeper faith. Spiritual Transformation The result of Simon’s obedience was not just a miraculous catch of fish, but a shift in how he understood Jesus and himself. He moves from calling Jesus “Master” to recognizing Him as “Lord,” signaling a deeper awareness of Jesus’ true identity and authority. Application for Today Embrace Obedience Whether the task is small and inconvenient or large and challenging, obedience matters. Consistent obedience aligns us with God’s purpose. Seek Transformation Like Simon, our journey with Jesus is ongoing. It begins with relationship, grows through obedience, and leads to a life shaped by God’s calling. Conclusion The story of Simon Peter reminds us that transformation is a process that requires active participation through obedience. As we walk through this series, let us remain open to the lessons from Simon Peter’s life and apply them personally. Whether you are new to faith or have followed Jesus for years, every step of obedience moves you closer to the life God intends for you. If you are interested in beginning or deepening your relationship with Jesus, consider joining our upcoming baptism service or participating in our Bible reading plan for the year. Let’s commit to a year of growth and transformation, inspired by the life of Simon Peter.
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    45 m
  • The Church As... Week 1

    The Church As... Week 1
    Dec 30 2025
    The Church As… Week 1 Understanding the Church: Community and Connection In the first part of the series “The Church As…”, we explore the vital role of the church in creating both community and connection among believers. The sermon emphasizes that while social media platforms like Facebook excel at connecting people, they often fall short in fostering genuine community. The church, in contrast, is divinely designed to excel at both. The Church Defined The sermon challenges traditional perceptions of the church as merely a building or an event. Instead, it underscores the New Testament’s portrayal of the church as a living body of people—a community to which believers belong. This understanding is rooted in the truth that the church is not simply a place or an organization, but a community of believers united in Christ. Four Pictures of the Church The sermon draws on four powerful biblical metaphors to describe the church: The Body of Christ The Family of God The Bride of Christ The Temple of God These images reveal essential aspects of our identity and calling as members of the church, emphasizing that belonging is not something we achieve but something we receive in Christ. The Body of Christ Romans 12:4–5 and 1 Corinthians 12:12, 27 illustrate the church as the Body of Christ. This metaphor highlights the interconnectedness of believers, where each member plays a crucial role. It challenges the consumer mentality prevalent in modern church culture, urging believers to move from being spectators to active participants. The body metaphor teaches that every believer is vital, and the church thrives when all members are engaged and contributing their unique gifts. The Family of God The family metaphor, seen in Ephesians 2:19 and Romans 8:15, emphasizes belonging. In Christ, believers are adopted into God’s family—no longer outsiders, but members of His household. This relationship fosters unity, not uniformity, and encourages believers to love and serve across differences. The sermon highlights that a healthy church family produces spiritual growth and resilience, even amid misunderstandings and disagreements. Moving Forward Together The sermon concludes with a call to action for believers to deepen their connection to the church. It encourages participation in community life, whether through serving, joining a connection group, or simply sharing life with other believers. The church is not a spiritual theater, but a training ground for spiritual growth and transformation. A Call to Belong For those who have not yet trusted in Jesus, the sermon extends an invitation to join God’s family through faith in Christ. For believers, it is a call to embrace their role within the body and family of God, recognizing that their presence, prayers, and service truly matter. In summary, the church is a living, dynamic community where believers are called to belong, participate, and grow together in Christ. As we step into this new year, let us commit to being active and engaged members of the body and family of God, living out our faith in unity and love.
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    43 m
  • Christmas Cards from God - Joy

    Christmas Cards from God - Joy
    Dec 23 2025
    Christmas Cards from God: Joy A Message of Joy from the Angels The heart of the Christmas story, as told in the Gospel of Luke, centers on the shepherds who were visited by an angel proclaiming, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all people” (Luke 2:10). This message of joy is not just historical. It is a Christmas card from God to us today, inviting us to live a life filled with joy. What Is True Joy? The sermon explores a direct question: Do you live with joy? True joy, as depicted in the Bible, is not mere happiness or a fleeting emotional state. It is strength that comes from God. This joy is a lifeline. It is a divine gift that empowers believers to navigate life’s challenges and temptations. Jesus’ Prayer for Joy In John 17:13, Jesus prays that His followers would have the “full measure of my joy within them.” This prayer highlights joy as a vital source of spiritual strength, even as Jesus faced His greatest trials. Joy is not superficial. It is deep-rooted strength that enables perseverance. The Joy of the Lord as Strength The sermon references Nehemiah 8:10, where Nehemiah tells the people, “Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” This moment came after the walls of Jerusalem were rebuilt. The people were reminded to celebrate God’s deliverance instead of mourning past failures. Joy here means moving forward with strength and purpose. The Example of Jesus Jesus modeled this joy as He endured the cross “for the joy set before him” (Hebrews 12:2). His anticipation of returning to the Father and securing salvation for humanity gave Him strength. Joy sustained Him through unimaginable suffering and kept Him faithful to His mission. Applying Joy in Our Lives 1. Return to the joy of salvation. Psalm 51:12 urges us to seek the joy of God’s salvation continually, remembering the grace that saved us and the mercy that forgives us daily. 2. Joy in obedience. Joy comes from knowing what to do and actually doing it. Obedience to God’s Word produces joy, as Psalm 19:8 says, “The precepts of the Lord are right, giving joy to the heart.” 3. Anticipating eternal joy. Joy is rooted in the hope of eternity with God. Psalm 16:11 promises, “You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.” Conclusion This Christmas season, the message is clear. Embrace the joy God offers through Christ. This joy is not just a feeling. It is strength. It sustains us. As we reflect on the birth of Jesus, remember His prayer for our joy. Live in that strength. The best is still ahead.
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    33 m
  • Christmas Cards From God: Week 2 - Peace

    Christmas Cards From God: Week 2 - Peace
    Dec 16 2025
    Christmas Cards from God: Peace In the latest sermon, we explored the profound theme of peace as a divine gift, focusing on Jesus as the Prince of Peace. This theme is deeply connected to the Christmas story, which celebrates a time when God gave us what we could never achieve on our own: peace in the midst of chaos. The Gift of Peace The sermon began by highlighting the incredible generosity of the congregation, which raised significant funds for clean water projects. These acts of kindness symbolize how generosity contributes to peace in the world. This giving parallels the peace God offers us through Jesus. Understanding Peace The concept of peace was broken down into two key ideas: Being at Peace: An internal state of calm and acceptance, regardless of external circumstances. Being in Peace: A state dependent on external conditions aligning perfectly, which is often beyond our control. God desires both forms of peace for us. This truth is echoed in Jesus’ words: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:27) Jesus, the Prince of Peace The title Prince of Peace carries deep meaning. As the ruler and keeper of peace, Jesus offers a peace that cannot be found anywhere else. This peace is not earned or bought; it is a divine gift, inseparably tied to His presence. Isaiah 9:6 foretells the coming of the Prince of Peace, emphasizing that Jesus’ birth is God’s gift of peace to humanity. His reign means He governs a kingdom of peace, offering citizenship through spiritual rebirth. Entering the Kingdom of Peace To enter this kingdom, a person must be “born again,” as explained in John 3:5–7. This spiritual rebirth is necessary because sin separates us from God. Through Jesus’ sacrifice, peace with God becomes possible. Colossians 1:20 reminds us that peace comes through the blood Jesus shed on the cross. Living in Peace The sermon also acknowledged a hard truth: while we can experience peace in this world, complete and lasting peace will only be fully realized in eternity. Ephesians 2:14–19 shows how Jesus has broken down walls of hostility, reconciling us to God and offering true peace. The Pathway, Presence, and Promise of Peace The Pathway of Peace: Walking in God’s wisdom and commands leads to peace (Proverbs 3:13, 17; Psalm 119:165). The Presence of Peace: Even in hardship, the Holy Spirit provides peace that surpasses understanding. The Promise of Eternal Peace: Believers ultimately look forward to eternal rest and peace with God (Isaiah 57:2). Conclusion The sermon closed with a call to embrace the peace Jesus offers. It challenged listeners to reflect on their spiritual condition and to share this peace with others. As we celebrate Christmas, we are reminded that the Prince of Peace has opened the kingdom of peace to all who believe—offering peace for today and peace for eternity.
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    1 h y 2 m
  • Christmas Cards From God: Week 1

    Christmas Cards From God: Week 1
    Dec 9 2025
    Letters from God: A Message of Hope As we step into the Christmas season, it is a time of reflection and reconnection, much like the old tradition of sending Christmas cards with letters to friends and family. In this sermon, we are reminded that God also sends us messages, and this Christmas these messages are filled with hope. Jeremiah 29:11 – A Message of Assurance The sermon begins with a powerful reminder from Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” This verse was originally for the Israelites during a time of despair, but it resonates through time, offering assurance that God is always thinking of us, even when we feel distant. The Power of Hope Hope is a recurring theme throughout the sermon, emphasizing its importance in various aspects of life: Health: Hope is linked to better health outcomes, and a study cited shows that hopeful individuals had a significantly lower risk of death after a heart attack than their pessimistic counterparts. Success: Hope is crucial for success, as it fosters resilience and perseverance in the face of challenges. Relationships: Hope breathes life into relationships, making them more positive and fulfilling. Hope in Christ While hope in general is beneficial, the sermon underscores that hope in Christ is unparalleled. It is a hope that shines light into the darkest corners of our lives. The story of Simeon in Luke 2 exemplifies this hope. Simeon, a devout man, awaited the Messiah with hope, and upon seeing Jesus, he knew his prayers were answered. This encounter illustrates the transformative power of hope in Jesus. The Parable of the Hidden Treasure Matthew 13:44 provides a vivid illustration of the value of hope in God's kingdom. The kingdom of heaven is likened to a treasure hidden in a field which, once discovered, prompts a man to sell everything he owns to possess it. This parable teaches that: True hope is unseen: Often our hopes are tied to visible, material things, but true hope is found in the unseen treasures of God’s kingdom. Hope gives direction: Like the man who discovered the treasure, hope in Christ gives our lives direction and purpose, guiding us toward a future aligned with God’s vision. Embracing God’s Hope The sermon concludes with a call to embrace the hope offered through Jesus Christ. This hope is the foundation for a life of peace and purpose, transcending the temporary and visible to provide eternal assurance. As we celebrate Christmas, let us remember that the hope we have in Christ is like a treasure, offering us a future filled with God’s promises. Whether you are already living in this hope or seeking it, the message is clear: God has plans for you—plans for hope and a future. For those seeking prayer or guidance, the church offers support to help individuals move from despair to the hope found in God. May this season be one where God’s light and hope shine brightly in your life.
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    34 m
  • Stoke The Fire

    Stoke The Fire
    Dec 2 2025
    Stoke The Fire: A Call to Spiritual Awakening In the sermon “Stoke The Fire,” the message calls believers to rekindle their spiritual fervor and live fully committed to Christ. Drawing from Romans 12:6–8, it emphasizes the diverse spiritual gifts God gives His people and how those gifts should be used to glorify Him and serve others. Key Themes 1. Spiritual Gifts and Their Purpose The sermon stresses the need to recognize and develop the spiritual gifts God has given each believer. Romans 12:6–8 lists gifts such as prophecy, service, teaching, encouragement, giving, leadership, and mercy. Each gift reflects God’s grace and is meant to build up the body of Christ with diligence and joy. Romans 12:6–8: “We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us…” 2. The Importance of Fellowship with Jesus A recurring theme is the necessity of maintaining a close relationship with Jesus. Fellowship fuels spiritual growth and effective ministry. Luke 5:16 highlights Jesus’ habit of withdrawing to pray, modeling the need for believers to seek regular solitude and communion with God. Luke 5:16: “But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.” 3. Living with Expectancy and Boldness Believers are encouraged to live expecting God to use them. Preparation happens through prayer, study, and active service. Acts 1:8 reminds us that the Holy Spirit empowers us to be witnesses for Christ. Acts 1:8: “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses…” 4. The Transformative Power of the Holy Spirit The sermon urges believers to allow the Holy Spirit to shape them into new creations. 2 Timothy 1:6 encourages Christians to “fan into flame” the gifts within them, staying proactive in their spiritual growth. 2 Timothy 1:6: “For this reason, I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God…” 5. Being the Church Beyond the Building The message calls believers to be the church outside the walls. The church is not a building—it’s the people of God. We are challenged to use our gifts in our communities, reaching the lost and serving others. Conclusion “Stoke The Fire” is a call to awaken spiritual gifts and live intentionally for Christ. It challenges believers to deepen their walk with Jesus, step boldly into their gifts, and engage expectantly in God’s mission. When believers live this way, they become a light to the world, drawing others to the transforming power of the Gospel. For further reflection, read Romans 12, Luke 5, and Acts 1 to explore these themes more deeply.
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    35 m