ChurchAliveWC

In our sermon, "The Resurrection Power," we explore the transformative and restorative force of God's power in our lives. Drawing from Isaiah 58:12, we understand that God’s resurrection power is not just about overcoming death but revitalizing and rebuilding our lives. This divine power enables us to raise the foundations of many generations, becoming "repairers of the breach" and "restorers of streets to dwell in." We are called to seek God's best for every aspect of our lives—personal, marital, familial, and ministerial. This involves viewing our circumstances through God's perspective rather than our limited human view. As 1 Peter 2:2 urges, like newborns craving pure spiritual milk, we should desire spiritual growth that leads to salvation. Our sermon also reflects on God’s names, such as Jehovah-Jireh (God who provides), Jehovah-Rophe (God who heals), and Jehovah-Nissi (The Lord my banner). These names remind us of God’s unwavering presence and support, whether we face trials or triumphs. By meditating on Proverbs and Psalms daily, and embracing God’s promises like those found in Romans 6, we are empowered to live a renewed life, free from sin’s grasp. We become active participants in God’s restoration work, equipped to advance His kingdom with resilience and hope.

In this sermon, we will explore the concept of a "Spiritual Boot Camp," drawing parallels from the lives of Daniel, Joseph, and Moses. These biblical figures underwent intense periods of preparation and testing, akin to a spiritual boot camp, where their character, faith, and endurance were refined. Daniel 1:3-5 highlights how Daniel and his peers were chosen for their exceptional qualities and subjected to rigorous training in Babylon, much like how God prepares us for His purposes. Similarly, Joseph's journey from a dreamer to a leader in Genesis 37:2-11 and his perseverance in prison (Genesis 39:23) illustrate the importance of remaining faithful in adversity. We will also examine Moses' early life and calling (Exodus 2:8-11) and how his past was instrumental in shaping his future leadership. This sermon will challenge us to embrace God's training, remain humble, obedient, and faithful, even in the face of conflict, temptation, and trials. Through the examples of these great men of faith, we will learn how to handle our own spiritual boot camps, trusting that God’s refining process is preparing us for greater purposes.

In this week's continuation of the sermon titled "What Matters Most," we delve deeper into the teachings that Pastor Owen introduced last week. Building on the foundation set by Luke 12:6-21, the sermon emphasizes the immense value God places on each of us, reminding us that our worth is not defined by worldly possessions or achievements but by our relationship with God. Galatians 5:6 underscores the idea that faith, when expressed through love, is what truly matters. Without love, as 1 Corinthians 13 explains, nothing we say, know, believe, give, or accomplish has any lasting value. Pastor Owen will explore what it means to live a life of love—love that is commanded by God, chosen by us, reflected in our actions, and committed to for life. Through this lens, we are called to examine our hearts and actions, ensuring that they align with the love that God commands us to pursue. As we journey through these scriptures, we are reminded that the greatest of all is love, which endures beyond all else and is the true measure of a life well-lived.

In the sermon titled "What Matters Most," we explore the heart of Jesus' teaching on life's true priorities. Drawing from Luke 12:6-21, Jesus reminds us of our immense value to God, warning against the dangers of greed and misplaced trust in material wealth. He tells the parable of a rich man who, focused on his possessions, neglected the reality of his soul’s condition, showing us that life is about far more than earthly treasures. Galatians 5:6 underscores that what truly matters in the Christian life is not external rituals, but a faith that expresses itself in love. Without love, as 1 Corinthians 13 explains, nothing we say, know, believe, give, or accomplish has any eternal significance. Love is central to our calling as followers of Christ—it is a command, a choice, a conduct, and a commitment. Ultimately, this sermon challenges us to evaluate what truly matters in our lives. We are called to live out love in everything we do, for in God’s eyes, love is the only thing that gives meaning to all else. As 1 Corinthians 13:13 says, "The greatest of these is love."

In the sermon titled "Taking God Seriously," we delve into the story of Samson, whose journey began with a divine promise and a sacred vow. Judges 13-16 outlines how God intervened in Israel’s distress, announcing Samson's birth to his barren mother and setting him apart as a Nazirite. The message challenges us to consider the weight of God's instructions and the consequences of neglecting them. Samson's life, filled with remarkable strength and tragic flaws, reveals the dangers of disregarding God's commands and the importance of wholehearted obedience. We’ll explore how taking God seriously affects our decisions, relationships, and destiny, and how even when we falter, God's grace is still at work in our lives. Join us as we learn from Samson’s story and strive to live with reverence and commitment to God's calling.

Last week, we began a powerful exploration of Hebrews 11:24-29, focusing on the faith-driven decisions of Moses. We delved into the first point: knowing who you are. We saw how Moses, by faith, refused to be identified as the son of Pharaoh’s daughter, embracing his true identity with God’s people (Hebrews 11:24). This week, we will continue our study, diving into the remaining three points that shaped Moses’ journey and can transform ours. First, we will discuss the significance of personal responsibility, as Moses chose to endure suffering with God’s people rather than indulge in fleeting pleasures (Hebrews 11:25). We’ll see how our choices matter in our walk with God. Next, we’ll explore how Moses determined his priorities, valuing the eternal reward over Egypt’s treasures (Hebrews 11:26). This teaches us the importance of seeking God’s kingdom first. Finally, we will consider Moses’ perseverance in difficulties, as he courageously left Egypt, trusting in the unseen God (Hebrews 11:27). His endurance inspires us to remain steadfast in our trials, knowing that faith will carry us through. Join us as we continue this faith-filled journey, drawing wisdom and strength from Moses’ example.

In our sermon, "Blessing vs. Burden," we explore Hebrews 11:24-29 to uncover how Moses navigated life's trials and triumphs through faith. By refusing the luxury of Pharaoh’s palace and embracing the suffering of God's people, Moses exemplifies choosing divine blessing over temporal burden. We will delve into four key lessons from his story: Know Who You Are - Understanding your true identity in Christ helps in resisting the allure of earthly titles and pleasures (Hebrews 11:24, Romans 15:7). Personal Responsibility Matters - Embracing our personal responsibility in faith means prioritizing spiritual growth over fleeting temptations (Hebrews 11:25, Philippians 2:12). Determine Proper Priorities - Setting our sights on eternal rewards rather than earthly treasures shapes our path (Hebrews 11:26, Matthew 6:33). Persevere in Your Difficulties - Enduring through trials with faith in the unseen promises strengthens our character and hope (Hebrews 11:27, James 1:12). Join us as we learn from Moses’s journey and discover how to align our lives with God's blessings amidst our burdens.

Join us as we continue the sermon "Overcoming Depression," a profound journey through Psalm 77:1-20 and 1 Kings 19:2. Pastor Owen began this sermon two weeks ago, addressing the first two points: facing emotional battles and understanding the triggers of depression. Now, we delve deeper into God's Word to find solace and strength. In Psalm 77, the psalmist's raw cry to God echoes our own struggles, reminding us that in our darkest nights, we can seek the Lord. Elijah's story in 1 Kings 19:3-5, 10 illustrates how even the mightiest prophets faced despair. Yet, through the renewal of our minds (Romans 12:2) and embracing God's truth (John 8:32), we can filter our thoughts and find freedom. This week, we will explore practical steps to become overcomers: tending to our physical needs (1 Kings 19:5-6), releasing our frustrations to Jesus, and gaining awareness of the Holy Spirit (1 Kings 19:11-13). We will seek Jesus for new direction (1 Kings 19:15), finding hope and purpose in His steadfast love (Lamentations 3:21-25). Let's come together to discover the path to overcoming depression.

Join us for a special sermon featuring guest speaker Cory Miller from Ratio Christi, an organization dedicated to equipping university students and faculty with historical, scientific, and philosophical reasons to believe Christianity is true. Ratio Christi exists to strengthen students' faith, enabling them to withstand challenges as they venture into the world. 1. Equip Students With Reasons to Follow Christ Ratio Christi brings faith and logic together, providing students with well-thought-out reasons to follow Jesus Christ. The organization aims to help Christians work through their doubts and ultimately share Christ with their peers. 2. Equip Professors with Tools to Share Their Faith With the right resources, encouragement, and platform, professors can share their faith with students and be a beacon of light in their spheres of influence. Ratio Christi provides these essential tools to serve and equip professors. 3. Plant University Clubs Nationwide University students often question purpose, faith, and identity. Ratio Christi's nationwide clubs offer a safe space for students to ask apologetics questions and equip leaders with the confidence to address them. Come and be inspired by Cory Miller's message on how Ratio Christi is transforming university campuses for Christ!

In the sermon "Overcoming Depression," we delve into Psalm 77:1-20 and 1 Kings 19:2-15 to explore the emotional battles we all face. The psalmist's cry for help and Elijah's despair remind us that even the faithful can struggle deeply. We'll discuss the causes of depression, such as overwhelming stress and spiritual isolation, and how to "Father filter" our thoughts, as encouraged in Romans 12:2 and John 8:32. Practical steps to overcome depression include taking care of our physical needs, releasing frustrations to Jesus, and becoming aware of the Holy Spirit’s presence, as demonstrated in 1 Kings 19. By seeking Jesus for new direction and embracing His truth, we can find hope and renewal, as promised in Lamentations 3:21-25 and John 8:32. Join us to learn how God's steadfast love and faithfulness can lead us through the darkest valleys and into the light of His peace.

In this week's sermon, "Choose to Forgive," we will explore the transformative power of forgiveness through the story of Jacob and Esau, as depicted in Genesis 32 and 33. Jacob, burdened by fear and guilt, prepares to meet his estranged brother Esau, sending messengers ahead with gifts and seeking reconciliation (Genesis 32:3-5). When Jacob learns that Esau is approaching with 400 men, he is terrified, prompting a strategic division of his camp in hopes of survival (Genesis 32:6-8). Left alone, Jacob wrestles with a divine being, an encounter that leaves him physically altered and spiritually renewed (Genesis 32:24-32). Are you carrying conflicts within yourself? Like Jacob, we must confront our struggles honestly before God (Genesis 32:27). By opening our hearts and venting our conflicts to Him (Genesis 32:28), we can gain a new perspective. Ultimately, this path leads to profound reconciliation, as seen when Esau embraces Jacob, signifying a powerful act of forgiveness (Genesis 33:4-7). Join us as we delve into these lessons, encouraging us all to choose forgiveness and embrace God's perspective in our lives.

In this sermon titled "Overcoming Failures," we delve into the profound lessons from Luke 5:1-11. We all face moments when our best efforts fall short, leaving us feeling defeated and inadequate. Simon Peter experienced this firsthand after a fruitless night of fishing. Yet, Jesus’ presence turned failure into abundance. We learn from Peter's story that when our efforts seem futile, we must invite God’s presence into our lives (Luke 5:3) and cooperate with Jesus’ guidance (Luke 5:4). Peter’s obedience, even when it seemed pointless, resulted in an overwhelming catch (Luke 5:5-7). This narrative teaches us that results follow obedience to Jesus. Moreover, 1 Peter 5:8-9 reminds us to stay vigilant against discouragement, while Psalm 138:8 and Psalm 90:17 assure us of God's enduring purpose and favor in our lives. Let us embrace these truths, allowing God to transform our failures into extraordinary outcomes by His power and grace.

Stress is a universal problem, but through scripture, we can find profound guidance to manage and overcome it. In this sermon titled "The Problem of Stress," we will explore eight essential steps drawn from the life and teachings of Jesus. 1. Know who you are: Reflect on Jesus' self-awareness in John 10:11, 9, and 8:18, as He declares His identity with confidence and purpose. 2. Know who you are trying to please: Discover the importance of seeking God’s approval, as illustrated in Matthew 3:17 and 6:33. 3. Know what you are trying to accomplish: Follow Jesus’ example in John 8:14, understanding His mission and direction. 4. Take one thing at a time: Learn from Jesus’ focused approach in Luke 4:42-43, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing tasks. 5. There are no Lone Rangers: Understand the value of community and teamwork from Mark 3:13. 6. Prayer must become habitual: Embrace the necessity of regular prayer, as seen in Mark 1:35 and Psalm 46:10. 7. Have some rest and recreation in your life: See the balance Jesus modeled in Mark 6:31, Matthew 11:19, and 1 Timothy 6:17. 8. Give your stress to Jesus: Finally, find rest in Jesus' invitation in Matthew 11:28-30, offering a way to ease our burdens. Join us as we delve into these biblical principles to find peace amidst life's pressures.

On this Fathers Day, Pastor Owen will explore the profound responsibility of fatherhood as depicted in the scriptures. Drawing from Matthew 16:25, we understand that salvation is intricately tied to transformation, highlighting the spiritual battle fathers face daily (Ephesians 6:12). We are reminded that our struggle is not against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces of evil (2 Corinthians 10:3-5), emphasizing the need for vigilance against the adversary (1 Peter 5:8). The world relentlessly challenges the role of fathers, seeking to dismantle their significance. However, through prioritizing the kingdom of God (Matthew 6:33) and embracing the truth embodied in Christ (John 1:14), fathers can combat this assault on their identity. Moreover, fathers wield immense power through their words (Ephesians 4:29), recognizing the influence they hold in shaping lives (Proverbs 18:21). As we honor our divine calling, we understand that our words carry the weight of life and death (Psalm 22:3), thus reinforcing the importance of speaking truth and grace into the lives of our loved ones. Join us as we explore the depth and significance of fatherhood, empowering men to embrace their role with courage, wisdom, and love.

In Mark 4:38-40, we witness Jesus calming a fierce storm, rebuking the wind and waves with “Peace! Be still!” His disciples, terrified and questioning His concern for their safety, are reminded of His unwavering power and faithfulness. We begin by exploring who decided to embark on the boat journey and how Jesus, sleeping through the storm, symbolizes trust and faith (Mark 4:38-40). When life's storms arise, does the Lord care? Reflect on Job 9:8, Isaiah 51:15, and Hebrews 12:2 to understand God’s sovereignty and His profound care for us. Moreover, look to the joy that awaits in eternity. Romans 8:18 and Hebrews 12:1-8 emphasize the incomparable glory to be revealed and the endurance we gain from our faith. We are promised new, glorified bodies (Philippians 3:20-21; 1 Corinthians 15:51-55; 1 John 3:2-3), and a future free from sin and suffering (Revelation 21:4; John 14:1-3; Hebrews 11:16). Join us as we delve into these promises, finding strength and hope to weather any storm.

Several members of our Church Alive family participated in a missions trip to South Africa resulting in numerous testimonies of healings, deliverance, and personal growth. The team engaged in power evangelism at various locations, impacting many lives. They learned about praying for the sick and being vessels for God's work. They also witnessed a leg lengthening miracle and multiple healings. The trip concluded with prayer, singing, and imparting faith and boldness. Watch and be moved by their exciting testimonies!

In the second sermon of the "Talking To Jesus" series, we explore the foundational priorities for believers in Jesus. Centered on John 5:30, we understand that aligning with God’s will is paramount. Jesus exemplifies this by seeking not His own will, but the will of the Father who sent Him. We then delve into Jesus’ teachings on prayer, as seen in Luke 11:1-2, where He provides a model prayer that emphasizes reverence for God and the coming of His kingdom. The sermon further reveals the nature of the Father, drawing from Psalm 55:22, Hebrews 1:3, and 1 Peter 4:19, illustrating God as a sustainer, the exact representation of His nature, and a faithful Creator. We learn that God is a treasure, filled with righteousness and steadfast love (Psalm 33:5, Psalm 45:6, Ecclesiastes 2:26). Finally, we recognize God's omnipotence and omnipresence, reflected in Psalm 139:7-12, Isaiah 46:10, and Romans 1:20, affirming that His power and divine nature are evident throughout creation. This sermon guides us in understanding and communicating with our powerful, loving, and just God.

Join us for the first part of our sermon series, "Talking To Jesus," with a focus on "The Lord's Prayer." This sermon will illuminate the vital importance of prayer in a believer's life. Reflecting on John 21:25, we recognize that Jesus' deeds were so numerous that the world could not contain all the books that would be written about them. As followers of Jesus, what should be our priority? John 5:19, 30 shows us that Jesus did nothing on His own but sought to do the Father's will. Luke 5:16 highlights Jesus' habit of withdrawing to desolate places to pray, underscoring the importance of solitude in our prayer life. Hebrews 5:7 portrays Jesus offering prayers with loud cries and tears, demonstrating deep reverence. In John 11:41-42, Jesus prays publicly, affirming His faith that the Father always hears Him. Coupled with the assurance of Isaiah 26:3-4, this sermon will inspire you to prioritize prayer, seek God's will, and find peace in His presence.

Happy Mother's Day! Today we have 2 ladies from our church sharing a special message just for the occasion! Daniella Santillana will be presenting a message titled, "Shake Off the Grave Clothes" which exhorts believers to shed past burdens and embrace God's transformative power. Drawing from Philippians 3:13 and Romans 8:28, it encourages forward focus and trust in divine purpose. Luke 10:38-42 highlights prioritizing spiritual nourishment, while 1 Peter 5:7 and John 8:36 assure freedom through surrender and faith. Angie Catron will be presenting a message titled, "Be A Gatekeeper" which emphasizes spiritual vigilance and discernment, drawing from John 10:3, 7-10 to illustrate Christ as the ultimate gate. Psalm 141:3 underscores the power of words in guarding hearts. Ephesians 6:11 instructs on spiritual armor, while 2 Timothy 3:16-17 and Proverbs 31:26-29 emphasize wisdom and virtuous living.

In a world rife with complexities, the narrative of the wedding at Cana in Galilee offers profound insights into navigating life’s challenges. Drawing from John 2:1-10, we delve into the transformative power of faith amid adversity. When faced with pressure, do we question our capabilities, or do we turn to the divine for guidance? As depicted in John 2:3-4, Jesus responded to pressure with composure, reminding us to trust in divine timing and purpose. Amidst chaos, discerning God’s will amidst our mess is paramount. Like the servants instructed by Jesus' mother in John 2:5, embracing obedience to divine instruction leads to unexpected blessings and fulfillment, echoing Isaiah 43:16 and 2 Timothy 2:13. Ultimately, our trials become opportunities for Jesus to be glorified through us. Just as Jesus revealed his glory at the wedding feast (John 2:10-11), Psalm 45:7 and Isaiah 54:17 remind us of God’s anointing and protection over our lives. Join us as we explore how enduring complications can lead to the manifestation of divine glory and strengthen our faith journey.

Pastor Jeff will delve into the essence of living a truly fulfilling life. Guided by 2 Corinthians 13:5 and Luke 14:25-27, we are challenged to examine the depth of our faith and commitment to Christ. Through scripture like Titus 2:11–13 and 2 Timothy 4:1-5, we confront the allure of worldly desires and the radical exclusivity of discipleship. Jesus' words in John 10:10 remind us of the abundant life found in serving Him and others, echoed in 1 Corinthians 10:23-24 and Philippians 2:3-8. We debunk the misconception that mere attendance at church defines Christianity, emphasizing Galatians 5:13-14's call to love and serve one another. Acts 20:35 serves as a poignant reminder of the blessedness of giving over receiving. Join us as we explore how a life of purpose and service leads to true fulfillment, where good feelings follow good behavior. Don't miss this opportunity to embrace the abundant life Christ offers through selflessness and love.

Join us for a transformative sermon titled "Be Relevant," where we explore timeless wisdom from Proverbs, Exodus, Luke, Ephesians, and more. Through engaging narratives like the parable of the prodigal son and the story of Moses, we'll delve into the relevance of discipleship and its profound impact on our lives. Drawing from biblical teachings, we'll uncover how a lack of discipleship can lead to unforeseen consequences and how embracing our identity in Christ can bring significance to our existence. Additionally, we'll reflect on the importance of nurturing relationships and overcoming anxieties, trusting in God's provision as depicted in Matthew and Philippians. This sermon invites us to reflect on our journey, reevaluate our priorities, and discover the transformative power of living out our faith authentically in today's world. Join us as we embark on a journey of relevance, discipleship, and spiritual growth.

Join us for the compelling continuation of our series, "How Close is His Return?" with Part 2, as we delve into the urgent message conveyed in Matthew 25:1-13. Just as the ten virgins awaited the arrival of the bridegroom, we, too, stand at the threshold of anticipation. This sermon will explore the significance of readiness, drawing from Luke 21:36 and 1 Thessalonians 1:10, reminding us to stay vigilant and prepared for the imminent return of our Lord. But what if we find ourselves amidst tribulation? Revelation paints a vivid picture of the trials that may come upon the earth (Revelation 6:8, 9:18), yet we take solace in 1 Thessalonians 5:9, knowing that God has not destined us for wrath but for salvation. Moreover, we'll examine the signs of the times, recognizing the season of Jesus's return (Joel 3:1-2, Matthew 24:34, Mark 13:3, Luke 21:28). Through these scriptures and more (Revelation 11:5-10, 13:11-18, 14:11; Ezekiel 28:3-6; Jeremiah 49:34-39; Ezekiel 39:13; Revelation 12:14; Revelation 19:15), we'll gain insight into the urgency of our times and the need for steadfast faith. Join us as we navigate these crucial questions and seek a deeper understanding of our role in these prophetic times. Don't miss "Join us for the compelling continuation of our series, "How Close is His Return?" with Part 2, as we delve into the urgent message conveyed in Matthew 25:1-13. Just as the ten virgins awaited the arrival of the bridegroom, we, too, stand at the threshold of anticipation. This sermon will explore the significance of readiness, drawing from Luke 21:36 and 1 Thessalonians 1:10, reminding us to stay vigilant and prepared for the imminent return of our Lord. But what if we find ourselves amidst tribulation? Revelation paints a vivid picture of the trials that may come upon the earth (Revelation 6:8, 9:18), yet we take solace in 1 Thessalonians 5:9, knowing that God has not destined us for wrath but for salvation. Moreover, we'll examine the signs of the times, recognizing the season of Jesus's return (Joel 3:1-2, Matthew 24:34, Mark 13:3, Luke 21:28). Through these scriptures and more (Revelation 11:5-10, 13:11-18, 14:11; Ezekiel 28:3-6; Jeremiah 49:34-39; Ezekiel 39:13; Revelation 12:14; Revelation 19:15), we'll gain insight into the urgency of our times and the need for steadfast faith. Join us as we navigate these crucial questions and seek a deeper understanding of our role in these prophetic times. Don't miss "How Close is the Return of Jesus? Part 2" as we journey together in faith and anticipation.

In Matthew 25:1-13, Jesus shares the parable of the ten virgins, emphasizing readiness for His return. As the bridegroom's arrival is delayed, five virgins, unprepared without oil, miss the celebration. This sermon delves into the urgency of spiritual preparedness and vigilance, echoing Luke 21:36 and 1 Thessalonians 1:10, reassuring believers that they are not destined for wrath but for salvation. Moreover, Revelation vividly portrays the tribulations preceding Christ's return, urging believers to stand firm (Revelation 6:8, 9:18). Drawing from Joel's prophecy and Christ's teachings (Matthew 24:34, Mark 13:3, Luke 21:28), we recognize the signs heralding His imminent return. Additional Scriptures like Revelation 11:5-10 and 13:11-18 provide insights into end-time events, challenging believers to discern the times and remain faithful amidst tribulations. This sermon aims to ignite a sense of urgency and expectancy, urging believers to be spiritually alert and prepared as we await the glorious return of our Lord Jesus Christ.

In this sermon, we delve into the foundational truth of Christianity: the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Drawing from 1 Corinthians 15, we are reminded of the core of the gospel message: Christ died for our sins, was buried, and rose again on the third day. Through the eyewitness accounts of Matthew and John, we witness the tangible reality of Jesus' resurrection, which transformed the lives of His disciples and continues to impact believers today. The resurrection isn't just a historical event; it's a powerful demonstration of God's victory over sin and death, as highlighted in Matthew 28 and Luke 24. As we reflect on the implications of Christ's resurrection, we're called to respond with faith and submission. Just as Jesus commissioned His disciples to spread the gospel to all nations, we are urged to embrace the truth of His resurrection and surrender our lives to Him, as outlined in John 3:16, James 4:7, and 1 Peter 5:7-10. Join us as we explore the “TRUE” Easter story of the transformative power of Jesus's resurrection and its significance for our lives today!