Doing Hard Things | March 23, 2025 | Pastor Jon Zondervan
Join us for the final installment of our series, "Doing Hard Things," as we delve into one of the most challenging yet transformative aspects of Christian life: biblical forgiveness. In this sermon, we explore Ephesians 4 and the profound call to forgive others as God has forgiven us. Discover how forgiveness is not about minimizing the hurt or trusting again without boundaries, but about releasing a debt and finding freedom in Christ. Through powerful biblical insights and real-life stories, we learn that forgiveness is not a sign of weakness but a testament to the strength and grace we receive from God. Whether you're struggling with past hurts or seeking to understand the depth of God's mercy, this message offers hope and healing. Join us as we uncover the path to true freedom and the power of releasing others from the debts they owe us, just as we have been released by the love of Christ.
Doing Hard Things | March 16, 2025 | Pastor Jon Zondervan
As we continue our Doing Hard Things series in this weeks message we focus on Parenting. Pastor Jon explores the challenges and responsibilities of Christian parenting in today's culture, emphasizing that following Jesus does not equate to an easy life. The message delves into the complexities of raising children amidst cultural pressures and technological influences. Drawing from Deuteronomy 6, Pastor Jon highlights the importance of modeling a Christ-centered life, making God a normal part of daily conversations, and trusting in God's faithfulness. With a focus on creating environments that foster a love for Jesus, the message encourages parents to integrate faith into everyday life, pray prophetically for their children, and trust in God's enduring love and guidance. Join us as we explore how to navigate the hard but rewarding journey of parenting with faith and grace.
Doing Hard Things | March 9, 2025 | Pastor Jon Zondervan
In this weeks message titled "Myth Busting Marriage," we explore the challenging yet rewarding journey of marriage through the lens of biblical truth. As part of our "Doing Hard Things" series, this message delves into the common myths and lies surrounding marriage, such as the belief that marriage is merely a piece of paper or that one can change their spouse. Drawing from Ephesians 5 and Genesis 2, we reaffirm that marriage is a divine covenant instituted by God, not just a human contract. The message encourages couples to give 100% to their marriage, emphasizing the importance of prayer, selflessness, and spiritual leadership within the home. Whether you're single, married, divorced, or widowed, this message offers hope and practical wisdom for all, reminding us that with God, all things are possible. Join us as we seek to strengthen our relationships and align them with God's perfect design.
Doing Hard Things | March 2, 2025 | Pastor Jon Zondervan
In this impactful sermon from our "Doing Hard Things" series, we explore the challenging yet rewarding call to live a life of generosity. Drawing from 1 Timothy 6:17-19, the message emphasizes that following Jesus involves doing hard things, including being generous with our time, talents, and treasures. The sermon highlights that true generosity is countercultural and counterintuitive to our sin nature, urging us to hold loosely to worldly possessions and instead invest in eternal treasures. Through practical insights and biblical wisdom, we are encouraged to give God our first, use our gifts for His glory, and remember that this life is not all there is. Join us as we learn to live generously, reflecting the heart of God, who gave His best for us.
Doing Hard Things | February 23, 2025 | Pastor Jon Zondervan
In the second week of our series "Doing Hard Things," we explore the profound call of Jesus to love not only our neighbors but also our enemies. Drawing from John 13 and Matthew 5, the message emphasizes that love is the true trademark of Christianity. Jesus' command to love others, even those who persecute us, challenges us to rise above societal norms and reflect the unconditional, sacrificial love He demonstrated. Through prayer and forgiveness, we are encouraged to align our hearts with God's will, allowing His love to transform us and those around us. Join us as we delve into the heart of what it means to follow Jesus and embody His love in a world that desperately needs it.
Doing Hard Things | February 16, 2025 | Pastor Jon Zondervan
This week we start a new series called "Doing Hard Things". In this first message Pastor Jon begins by laying the ground work, exploring the profound call to follow Jesus beyond mere cultural Christianity. Drawing from 2 Timothy 3 and Luke 9, the message challenges us to embrace the true essence of discipleship, which involves denying ourselves, taking up our cross daily, and making Jesus the Lord of our entire lives. The message emphasizes that while following Christ may not make life easier, it brings unparalleled fulfillment, joy, and purpose. As we navigate the challenges of living counter-culturally, we are reminded that salvation is a free gift, but true discipleship requires a daily commitment to surrender and transformation. Join us as we delve into what it truly means to be a follower of Jesus and how we can live out our faith with authenticity and courage.
Got Faith | February 9, 2025 | Guest Pastor Zach Dillon
In this powerful message from guest Pastor Zach Dillon from Radiant Kalamazoo, we as believers are invited to delve deeper into the true essence of our faith, moving beyond mere religious familiarity and routine. Pastor Zach challenges us to examine our hearts for any signs of a religious spirit that might prioritize outward appearances over genuine, heartfelt faith. Through biblical narratives such as those of Martha and Mary, the church of Laodicea, and the father seeking healing for his son, we are reminded of the importance of a sincere, desperate pursuit of God. Pastor Zach encourages us to move beyond theological certainty and embrace a faith that reaches for God amidst life's messiness and challenges. This message calls us to seek a deeper, more authentic relationship with God, characterized by humility, hunger, and a willingness to believe for more in every area of our lives. Join us as we explore what it means to have true faith and experience the transformative power of God in our lives.
The Seeker’s Reward: January 26, 2025 | Pastor Jon Zondervan
Join us for the concluding message of our series, "The Seeker's Reward," as we dive into Romans Chapter 4 to explore "The Seeker's Journey of Faith." Pastor Jon reveals the profound truth that God rewards those who earnestly seek Him, not through their works, but through faith, as demonstrated by Abraham. A life of faith is a dynamic journey of discovery, growth, and deepening friendship with God. Pastor Jon illuminates Abraham's path from a pagan land to becoming the father of faith, showcasing the transformative power of trusting in God's promises. No matter where we find ourselves on this journey, as believers, we are encouraged to uncover God's faithfulness, deepen our relationship with Him, and nurture an intimacy that leads to true friendship with God. Ultimately, every follower is called to continually seek God, understanding that faith is not a singular event but a lifelong journey of growth and relationship with the Lord.
The Seeker’s Reward: January 19, 2025 | Pastor Jon Zondervan
Join us for week 3 of our sermon series titled "The Seeker's Reward," where we explore the profound journey of seeking God and the transformative power it brings to our lives. In this week's message, we delve into 2 Corinthians 3 and the concept of transformation as a reward for those who earnestly seek God. Discover how the new covenant in Christ frees us from the limitations of the old law and invites us into a life of ever-increasing glory. Learn about the two aspects of transformation: the initial conversion moment and the ongoing process of becoming more like Christ. Through practical keys such as proximity to God, reliance on His power, consistent practice, prayer, and patience, we can experience true transformation. Embrace your new identity in Christ and overcome life's challenges with the power of the Holy Spirit.
The Seeker’s Reward: January 12, 2025 | Pastor Jon Zondervan
Join us for the second message in our "Seeker's Reward" series, where we delve into the profound encounter between Jesus and the Samaritan woman in John 4. As part of our annual "Seek" season, this message explores the theme "God Is Also Seeking," highlighting how God desires true worshipers who balance spirit and truth. Discover how spiritual hunger and passion for God's presence can transform our lives and lead us to become ambassadors of His love. Through the lens of this powerful biblical narrative, we are reminded that God is not seeking the most talented or qualified, but those with hearts devoted to Him. Be encouraged to pursue a deeper relationship with God, fueled by gratitude for His eternal gifts and a zeal for His kingdom. Join us as we align our hearts with God's purpose and seek to be true worshipers in spirit and truth.
The Seeker’s Reward: January 5, 2025 | Pastor Jon Zondervan
This weekend as we begin a new year, we also start a new series called "Seek". Pastor Jon highlights the importance of intentionally pursuing the heart of God at the start of the new year, and emphasizes that seeking God brings rewards, not in material terms but in the deeper knowledge and intimacy with Him. The process of seeking requires spiritual hunger and a willingness to develop that appetite through prayer, scripture, and communal worship. Pastor Jon elaborates on the differences between being a seeker and a wanderer, defining seekers as those driven by spiritual hunger and thirst. Seeking God is not about legalism but rather a genuine desire to know Him, as He is always available and waiting to draw closer to those who seek Him. Together lets embrace this opportunity for deeper communion as we embark on this journey over the next 21 days!
The Gift: December 22, 2024 | Pastor Jon Zondervan
As we conclude the Gift Series, this weekends message focuses on the "Gift of His Peace," drawing from Luke 2 and Isaiah 9, where Jesus is referred to as the "Prince of Peace." Pastor Jon delves into the concept of biblical peace, explaining that true peace is not the absence of troubles but the presence of God in our lives, even during difficult times. We are reminded how to experience this peace through vulnerable prayer, thanksgiving, and focusing on God's promises.
The Gift: December 15, 2024 | Pastor Jon Zondervan
This weekend in the second message of “The Gift” series Pastor Jon focused on the themes of waiting for Jesus' arrival and the meaning of Emmanuel, which translates to "God with us." He emphasized the importance of recognizing that God is always present with us, never leaving or forsaking us, regardless of our shortcomings or struggles. We are reminded of the need for intentionality in our relationship with God, and the importance of creating space for His presence in our lives. Ultimately through faith in Jesus, we can experience a deep and abiding relationship with God, filled with grace and freedom from shame.
The Gift: December 8, 2024 | Pastor Jon Zondervan
This weekend we begin a new Christmas series titled "The Gift," focusing on the significance of Jesus' incarnation and the promises associated with his coming. Pastor Jon emphasizes the importance of waiting on God during the Advent season, illustrating this with the biblical accounts of figures like Joseph and Simeon, who waited patiently, watchfully, and trustfully for the fulfillment of God's promises. We are reminded and encouraged that while waiting can be difficult, it is a time for spiritual growth and preparation and a time to renew our confidence in God's faithfulness, trusting that even in seasons of waiting, God is at work for our good.
The Battle You’re In: December 1, 2024 | Pastor Tim Matthews
This weekend was the final week of the series, and Pastor Tim Matthews delivered a powerful sermon emphasizing that Jesus ultimately wins over evil and the devil. He explored biblical passages, highlighting God's promise of victory through Jesus, who was sent to destroy the works of the enemy. The message reminds us to engage in spiritual warfare with faith, repentance, and unity within the church as a supportive family. Ultimately, Pastor Tim encouraged us as believers to embrace our victory in Christ and seek His strength in our battles.
The Battle You’re In: November 24, 2024 | Pastor Jon Zondervan
In this weekends sermon we focus on Intercession and what it means to stand in the gap. Pastor Jon emphasizes the importance of prayer as a spiritual weapon in the ongoing battle of spiritual warfare, particularly focusing on intercessory prayer. He urges us to pray for all people, including those in authority, as God desires everyone to come to the knowledge of the truth and be saved. Prayer not only impacts others but also transforms the hearts of those who pray and ultimatley we as believers are called to be active in interceding for others while recognizing the profound significance of our prayers and role in God's kingdom.
The Battle You’re In: November 17, 2024 | Pastor Jon Zondervan
This weekend we learned the significance of worship as both a lifestyle and an activity, and the reality that everyone worships something. Worship is a powerful weapon against the attacks of the enemy, Pastor Jon highlighted the at biblical examples of Paul and Silas as well as King Jehoshaphat to illustrate how worship can lead to deliverance and victory. Pastor Jon defined worship as an offering to God, stressing the importance of humility and focus on Him rather than personal preferences. Ultimately, we are encouraged to recognize the battle for our worship and to confidently use it as a weapon in our spiritual lives.
The Battle You’re In: November 10, 2024| Pastor Jon Zondervan
In this week’s message Pastor Jon discusses spiritual warfare and the importance of prayer as a weapon for Christians. He emphasizes that true strength comes not from ourselves but from the Lord, highlighting the necessity of putting on God’s armor to stand against the enemy's schemes. As believers we are encouraged to approach God with childlike dependence, understanding that prayer is the language of the Kingdom and should be our first response in all situations. Through prayer, we connect with God’s power and align ourselves with His will, which leads to true victories in our lives.
The Battle You’re In: November 3, 2024| Pastor Jon Zondervan
This week we continue the Battle You’re in series and the focus of putting on the full armor of God including the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, shoes of the gospel, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and notably, the sword of the Spirit, which is God's Word. This week Pastor Jon stresses the importance of understanding and internalizing Scripture, indicating that it's vital for effectively navigating life's challenges and combating the enemy’s lies. We are encouraged to build our own spiritual "sword" through diligent study and application of the Scriptures, reinforcing that knowledge of God's truth sets us free and equips us for the battles ahead.