Bethany Missionary Church

Prayer is not about having the perfect words — it’s about being with a perfect Savior.In Week 1 of our “All Kinds of Prayer” series, we begin in 1 Timothy 2:1 and explore two simple but powerful truths: prayer and all people. Through the story of Mary and Martha, we discover that prayer is not just another religious task to accomplish, but an invitation into the presence of Jesus.Whether you’ve prayed for years, haven’t prayed in a long time, or don’t even know where to begin, this message is a reminder that through Jesus, you are invited near.Scripture References:1 Timothy 2:1–4If this message encouraged you, make sure to like, subscribe, and share it with someone who may need hope today.Bethany Missionary ChurchElkhart, IndianaSunday Worship Gathering | 10:30amWebsite: https://bethanymissionary.com#Prayer #ChristianSermon #Faith #Jesus #BibleTeaching #ChurchOnline #PrayerLife #BethanyMissionaryChurch

The Church was never meant to be a place we simply attend. The Church is a people sent on mission.In the final week of our We Are The Church series, Pastor Ryan Lutz teaches from Acts 2:47 and reminds us that we don’t just gather—we go. The early Church worshiped together, grew together, and lived on mission together. Their faith wasn’t confined to a room; it became a witness to the world around them.This message challenges us to see our homes, workplaces, schools, neighborhoods, and everyday relationships as mission fields where God has already placed us. Mission is not just for pastors, missionaries, or people with a platform. Every follower of Jesus is called to love like Jesus, live as a witness, and make disciples.Acts 2:47 says, “And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.” The mission of the Church is not about building a brand or filling a building. It is about people meeting Jesus, receiving grace, and finding new life in Him.As we close this series, we are reminded that we gather to be formed, filled, and sent. We do not go in our own strength. We go in the name of Jesus, by the power of the Holy Spirit, for the glory of God.If this message encouraged you, share it with someone who needs the reminder that God can use their ordinary life for an eternal purpose.Join us Sundays at 10:30 AM at Bethany Missionary Church in Elkhart, Indiana.Learn more about Bethany: bethanymissionary.comSermon Title: We Are On MissionSeries: We Are The ChurchSpeaker: Pastor Ryan LutzScripture: Acts 2:47Location: Bethany Missionary Church, Elkhart, Indiana

Have you ever felt alone—even when you’re surrounded by people?In this message, Pastor Ryan Lutz reminds us of a powerful truth: you are not alone… and you were never meant to be. As we continue our We Are The Church series, we look at Acts 2:46 and the example of the early church—a people committed to doing life together with glad and sincere hearts. This sermon explores how God designed us for community from the very beginning. Not only were we created for relationships—we were created from relationship through the Trinity: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. And because of that, we are truly better together.In this episode, you’ll hear:Why loneliness is so real in today’s worldWhat biblical community actually looks likeHow relationships can strengthen your walk with JesusPractical steps to grow with God, grow with a few, and grow with a groupThe hope we have through the presence of the Holy SpiritWhether you’re new to faith, exploring church, or looking to take your next step, this message will challenge and encourage you to move beyond isolation and into the life God designed for you.Because church isn’t just a place you go—it’s a people you belong to.—If this message encouraged you, share it with someone who needs the reminder: you are not alone.Be sure to follow/subscribe so you never miss a message from Bethany Missionary Church.#WeAreTheChurch #BetterTogether #YouAreNotAlone #ChristianPodcast #Faith #Acts2 #Community #Sermon

What does it actually mean to grow in your faith—not just show up?In Week 2 of our We Are The Church series, we dive into Acts 2:42 and discover what it looks like to be a growing church. The early church didn’t just gather—they were devoted. And that devotion shaped everything.This message focuses on one key truth:👉 We don’t just show up… we grow up.👉 We don’t rise to the occasion—we fall to the level of our relationship with God.Through powerful moments in Daniel 3 and Acts 7, we see real people whose deep, consistent relationship with God gave them the strength to stand firm in the hardest moments. Their faith wasn’t built in the fire—it was revealed in it.If you’ve ever felt stuck spiritually, distant from God, or unsure how to take your next step, this message will challenge and encourage you to grow with God in a real, personal way.🔥 In this message, you’ll discover:What biblical devotion really looks like (Acts 2:42)Why spiritual growth is more than just attendanceHow your relationship with God shapes your response in life’s biggest momentsPractical ways to begin (or restart) growing with God today🙏 We close with a clear and personal invitation to turn back to Jesus—because no matter how far you’ve drifted, it’s never too late to come home.—📖 Key Scriptures:Acts 2:42Daniel 3Acts 7—If this message encouraged you, be sure to like, subscribe, and share it with someone who needs to hear it.🔔 Join us live every Sunday at 10:30 AM🌐 Learn more: bethanymissionary.com#WeAreTheChurch #GrowingChurch #Acts242 #SpiritualGrowth #FaithInAction #ChristianSermon #ChurchOnline #GrowWithGod

What does it really mean to be the Church—not just attend it?In Week 1 of our We Are The Church series, we’re discovering that following Jesus was never meant to be passive. The Church isn’t a place we sit—it’s a movement we step into.In this message, we unpack the direction, vision, and mission of the Church and how each of us plays a role in it. From pursuing God personally to building real community and living on mission, this is an invitation to take your next step in faith.Key Scriptures (NIV):Matthew 6:33 — Seek first the KingdomJohn 13:34–35 — Love one anotherMatthew 28:19–20 — The Great CommissionLuke 5:16 — Jesus withdrew to prayMark 3:13–14 — Jesus builds a groupMark 6:34 — Jesus has compassion on the crowdIn this message, you’ll learn:Why clarity and alignment matter in the ChurchThe vision: Pursue God, Pursue People, Pursue PurposeThe mission: Grow with God, with a few, with a group, and with a crowdHow to take your next step in following JesusThe Church isn’t something you attend—it’s something you become.Don’t just sit. Take your step.Next Steps:If this message encouraged you, make sure to like, subscribe, and share it with someone who needs it.Connect With Us:Website: https://bethanymissionary.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/BethanyMissionaryChurch Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bethanymissionary/ #WeAreTheChurch #ChurchOnline #FaithInAction #FollowJesus #ChristianLiving #Sermon #BibleTeaching #Discipleship #GreatCommission #ChurchCommunity

What is Easter really about?It’s more than traditions. More than eggs, chocolate, and a bunny.It comes down to two defining moments:A cross that was full… and a tomb that is empty.In this Easter message, we walk through the powerful truth of Luke 23:46 and the resurrection story to discover:• What Jesus did on the cross• What His resurrection accomplished• What the Gospel means for us todayThis message is a clear and compelling presentation of the Gospel—perfect whether you’re exploring faith, returning to church, or looking to deepen your understanding of Easter.Because of Jesus:The cross proves His love.The empty tomb proves His power.And the invitation is open to you.Scripture References:Luke 23:46Luke 24:5–6John 3:16Romans 10:9If you made a decision to follow Jesus or want to learn more, we’d love to connect with you.🌐 bethanymissionary.com📍 Bethany Missionary Church | Elkhart, IndianaSubscribe for more messages, encouragement, and Bible teaching from Bethany Missionary Church.#EasterMessage #ResurrectionSunday #Jesus #Gospel #ChristianSermon #Luke2346 #EmptyTomb #Faith #ChurchOnline #BibleTeaching

“It is finished.”Three words that changed everything.In Week 6 of our Last Words of Jesus series, we lean into John 19:30 and discover that Jesus’ final declaration wasn’t a cry of defeat—it was a shout of victory. The work is done. The price is paid. Freedom is available.Here’s what that means for us today:1. Jesus completed His assignment.Every prophecy. Every step of obedience. Every moment leading to the cross. From what He declared in John 4 to His prayer in John 17, Jesus faithfully finished what the Father sent Him to do.2. Jesus paid OUR debt.No more striving. No more trying to earn what’s already been given. Because of the cross, grace is fully available—your sin, your past, your shame… paid in full.3. Jesus has set us free.You don’t have to keep carrying what Jesus already conquered. Some of us need to boldly declare “it is finished” over fear, addiction, guilt, and anything holding us back from the life Jesus offers.We closed with a powerful response time, lifting up the name of Jesus and surrendering to what He has already finished on our behalf.If this message speaks to you, share it with someone who needs the reminder: it’s already been finished.Worship Response:“All Hail King Jesus”Copyright Information:“All Hail King Jesus” (CCLI Song #7097216)Writers: Jeremy Riddle, Peter Mattis, Ran Jackson, Steffany Gretzinger© 2014 Bethel Music PublishingUsed with permission under CCLI License.

What if Jesus saying “I thirst” means more than just physical pain?In Week 5 of our Last Words series, we explore John 19:28–29 and discover that these two simple words carry deep meaning throughout the entire Gospel of John. From the woman at the well, to Jesus’ invitation for the thirsty to come to Him, all the way to the cross—there’s a powerful theme unfolding.In this message, we see how Jesus’ thirst reveals His humanity, fulfills Scripture with intentional purpose, and ultimately points to a greater exchange—He became thirsty so that we could be truly satisfied.We also began our time together celebrating and praying over our missions partners, thanking God for the impact happening beyond our church. One exciting highlight was getting to celebrate a new church plant coming to the South Bend / Mishawaka area this year. We’re believing for lives to be changed and the gospel to move in powerful ways across our region.💧 Jesus became thirsty… so you would never have to be again.If this message encouraged you, be sure to like, subscribe, and share it with someone who needs hope today.#LastWords #Jesus #LivingWater #Faith #ChurchOnline

Did you know that even while dying on the cross, Jesus stopped to care for someone in their grief?In this message, “Good Plans,” we continue our series on the Last Words of Jesus by looking at one of the most personal moments at the cross in John 19:25–27. As Jesus looks down and sees His mother Mary standing there in sorrow, He says: “Woman, here is your son… Here is your mother.”Even in the middle of unimaginable suffering, Jesus reveals something profound about the heart of God.This passage reminds us that God does not abandon us in our pain. The same Savior who secured our eternal future on the cross also sees our grief and walks with us through it. Through this moment, Jesus also begins forming a spiritual family—the church—where we belong together and live out the mission of the Great Commission.In this message, we explore:• Jesus sees us — He meets us in our pain and grief and never abandons us.• Even in His suffering, Jesus was still perfect — fulfilling the law and honoring His mother.• Jesus creates a spiritual family — the church is not an exclusive club, but an open invitation to belong and reach the world for Christ.• Jesus is not just the God of the past or the future — He is present with us right here and right now.No matter what season you are walking through, the cross reminds us that God still has good plans for your life, even through loss, hardship, and grief.We close this message with the song “Good Plans / Doxology,” celebrating the faithfulness and goodness of God.

In Week 2 of our “Last Words of Jesus” series, we explore one of the most hope-filled promises ever spoken from the cross: “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.” In Luke 23:35–43, two criminals hang beside Jesus. Both are guilty. Both are dying. Both are just feet away from the Savior. Yet one mocks and the other believes. One dies in his sin, and the other dies to his sin.What made the difference?What you see on the cross determines what you receive from the cross.In this message, we unpack the powerful contrast between pride and humility, mockery and repentance, religion and saving faith. Drawing connections to Luke 18:9–14 and the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector, we see that the distance between hell and paradise is humility. Salvation is not earned through good works, religious effort, or moral improvement. It is received by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone.Jesus’ words from the cross reveal certainty, immediacy, relationship, and restoration. “Today.” Not someday. Not after you clean yourself up. “With Me.” Because heaven is not primarily about a place — it’s about a Person.If you have ever wrestled with doubt, complacency, guilt, or wondered if it’s too late for you, this message is for you. The cross didn’t look like a throne, but it was. And what you see there changes everything.Scripture: Luke 23:35–43Series: Last Words of JesusMessage Title: Paradise PerspectiveIf this message encouraged you, share it with someone who needs hope today and subscribe for more biblical teaching and gospel-centered messages.

What were the final words of Jesus from the cross, and why do they matter for your life today? In this message, “Forgiveness Found on the Cross,” we begin our series The Last Words of Jesus by looking at Jesus’ first statement from the cross: “Father, forgive them.”This sermon explores how forgiveness is found at the cross, how Jesus’ prayer was for you, and what it means to recognize His forgiveness, receive it personally, and replicate it in your relationships. If you are carrying guilt, shame, or unforgiveness, this message will help you discover the freedom and grace that Jesus offers through His sacrifice.Join us as we unpack Luke 23:32–34 and reflect on how Jesus chose forgiveness in His darkest moment—and how that same forgiveness can transform your life today.Subscribe for more sermons, teachings, and resources from Bethany Missionary Church, and share this message with someone who needs hope and healing.

In the final week of our Esther series, Todd Ruth, Executive Director at Bethany Missionary Church, walks us through the final chapters of Esther and shows how God’s hand is at work—even when we can’t see it. From deliverance to celebration, the story of Esther reminds us that God is faithful in every season, and His purposes are always unfolding.Whether you feel overlooked, uncertain, or waiting on God to move, this message will encourage you to trust that He is still writing your story.📖 Scripture: Esther 9–10🎙️ Speaker: Todd Ruth📍 Bethany Missionary Church – Elkhart, Indiana🔔 Subscribe for weekly sermons, leadership content, and faith-based encouragement.👍 Like, share, and comment how this message encouraged you!#EstherSeries #BethanyMissionaryChurch #ToddRuth #BibleTeaching #ChristianSermon #ElkhartChurch #FaithJourney #OldTestament #GodIsWorking #ChurchOnline

What do you do when God gives the fairytale ending you prayed for—and what about when He doesn’t? In Esther 7–8, we see an incredible reversal: the enemy exposed, the faithful rewarded, and God’s people rescued in dramatic fashion. It’s the kind of story we love—the fairytale ending where God shows up and shows off.But faith isn’t only built in the moments of breakthrough. In this message, we also journey to the Garden of Gethsemane and the cross, where Jesus prayed for another way and a thief found eternal hope in his final moments. Sometimes God changes the story. Sometimes He changes the ending. Either way, the Devil never gets the last move.Whether you’re believing God for a miracle or learning to trust Him in the waiting, this sermon will encourage you to keep asking, seeking, and knocking—and to remember that because of Jesus, eternity is secure. Checkmate, Devil.If this message encouraged you, share it with someone who needs hope today, and subscribe for more sermons and resources from Bethany Missionary Church.

What story are you living for—your own, or God’s?In Week 3 of our Esther series, we open Esther chapters 5–6, a turning point in the book where everything begins to shift. At first glance, these chapters feel quiet—banquets, delays, a sleepless night—but behind the scenes, God is moving with perfect timing. What looks ordinary is actually the beginning of a divine reversal.This message explores the contrast between a life centered on “my story” and a life surrendered to “His story.” Haman represents the emptiness of pride, control, and the craving for recognition, while Esther and Mordecai show what it looks like to trust God in the waiting and remain faithful when no one is watching. Even the smallest acts of obedience can become part of something far greater in God’s hands. Ultimately, Esther 5–6 points us to the bigger story of the Gospel—how we overcome not by striving, but through the blood of the Lamb and the power of what Jesus has done in us.Scripture Passage: Esther 5–6Bethany Missionary Church | Elkhart, IndianaIf this message encouraged you, be sure to subscribe and share it with someone who needs renewed perspective today.#Esther #EstherSeries #ChristianSermon #GodsProvidence #Faith #Baptism #Gospel #BethanyMissionaryChurch #ElkhartIndiana #JesusChrist

Are you where you are by accident—or on purpose?In Week 2 of our Esther series, Pastor Ryan walks through Esther chapters 3 and 4, exploring how God is deeply intentional, even when He feels unseen. While God’s name is never mentioned in Esther, His presence is unmistakable—working through timing, courage, and human obedience.This message centers on the powerful phrase “for such a time as this” and challenges us to see how God is intentional not only in His actions, but also in His reactions. Even when God doesn’t cause the circumstances we face, He is faithful to redeem them and turn them for good.You’ll discover:Why your life is not an accidentHow God works behind the scenes in difficult momentsWhat Esther 3–4 teaches us about courage and responsibilityHow intentional obedience creates space for God to moveWhether you’re navigating uncertainty, wrestling with fear, or sensing a moment of calling, this message will encourage you to trust God’s purpose and step forward in faith—right where you are.📖 Scripture Focus: Esther 3–4📍 Series: Esther – The Faithfulness of an Unseen God🎤 Speaker: Pastor Ryan Lutz⛪ Church: Bethany Missionary Church | Elkhart, INIf this message encouraged you, be sure to like, subscribe, and share so others can be reminded that God is always at work—especially when we can’t see Him.

In Week 1 of our teaching series Esther: The Faithfulness of an Unseen God, Pastor Dylan opens the book of Esther by walking through Esther chapters 1 and 2. These opening chapters introduce the setting, key characters, and the tension behind the story—revealing how God is already at work behind the scenes, even when He appears silent.This message explores themes of God’s sovereignty, purpose, identity, and faith in uncertain times, showing how ordinary moments can lead to extraordinary outcomes. If you’ve ever wondered where God is when life feels confusing or out of control, this message is for you.Whether you’re new to church, exploring faith, or a long-time follower of Jesus, this message invites you to see how the faithfulness of God can be present—even when unseen.📖 Passage: Esther 1–2🎙️ Speaker: Pastor Dylan📍 Series: Esther: The Faithfulness of an Unseen God⛪ Church: Bethany Missionary Church👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this message to help others discover hope and purpose through God’s Word.

Love Like Jesus, Live Like Missionaries challenges us to move beyond comfort and step into the calling Jesus has placed on every believer. In this message, we look at John 13:1–17, where Jesus gets up from the table, picks up a towel, and shows us that real love always leads to action.This sermon invites us to ask an honest question: Are we sitting comfortably, or are we living out our commission? Jesus didn’t save us so we could stay comfortable—He sends us to love others intentionally and live as missionaries right where we are.Whether you’re new to faith or have followed Jesus for years, this message will help you see how everyday life is your mission field—and how loving like Jesus changes the way we live, serve, and build space for others.Key Themes in This Message:Loving like Jesus through sacrificial, active faithLiving on mission in everyday lifeComfort vs. calling in the Christian lifeThe Great Commission and practical discipleshipWhat it means to be sent where you already areScripture References:John 13:1–17Matthew 28:19–202 Corinthians 5:14–20Acts 1:8If this message encourages you, consider liking, sharing, or subscribing to stay connected with future sermons and teachings.Subscribe for more biblical teaching, practical discipleship, and messages about living on mission.#LoveLikeJesus #LiveLikeMissionaries #ChristianSermon #John13 #GreatCommission #EverydayMission #Discipleship #FollowingJesus #ChristianFaith

God’s mission has never been limited to a few gifted people—it has always been built through everyday people who say yes to Jesus.In this message, “Everyday People,” Pastor Ryan Lutz teaches that following Jesus means more than attending church—it means stepping into God’s invitation to make a difference. Drawing from Scripture, this message centers on three core truths:1️⃣ Everyone is invited – We are one body with many parts, and every person matters (1 Corinthians 12:12–27).2️⃣ Everyone has a role to play – God equips His people for the work of ministry (Ephesians 4:11–12).3️⃣ The mission is Jesus – We are called to live as ambassadors of Christ in our everyday lives (2 Corinthians 5:17–20; Colossians 4:5–6).This message is for anyone who has ever felt unqualified, overlooked, or unsure of their purpose. You’ll be reminded that the church is not built on spectators, but on participants—and that God invites all of us into the greatest movement in history.📖 Key Scriptures: 1 Corinthians 12:12–27, Ephesians 4:11–12, 2 Corinthians 5:17–20, Colossians 4:5–6📍 Recorded at Bethany Missionary Church🔔 Subscribe for weekly sermons, biblical teaching, and encouragement

What does it really mean to follow Jesus—especially when it costs us something?In this message from Mark 10:17–31, Pastor Dylan walks us through the story of the rich young ruler and Jesus’ challenging words about wealth, surrender, and eternal life. This passage confronts our assumptions about success, security, and what we’re willing to hold onto when Jesus invites us to follow Him fully.You’ll be encouraged and challenged to examine where your trust truly lies—and reminded that what seems impossible for us is always possible with God.📖 Scripture: Mark 10:17–31🎤 Speaker: Pastor Dylan Miller📍 Bethany Missionary Church – Elkhart, INWhether you’re new to faith, exploring Christianity, or have followed Jesus for years, this message invites you to reflect on the call of discipleship and the freedom found in surrender.👉 Next Steps:• Subscribe for weekly messages and encouragement• Like & share this message with someone who needs it• Learn more about Bethany Missionary Church at bethanymissionary.com #Mark10 #FollowJesus #Discipleship #Surrender #ChristianSermon #BibleTeaching #BethanyMissionaryChurch #PastorDylan

👉 What did it look like for Mary to say yes to God before she understood everything?In this message from Candid Christmas – Week 3, we take a deep look at Mary’s perspective in Luke 1 and explore:✨ How Mary was spiritually ready when God interrupted her life✨ What it means to trust God before clarity comes✨ Mary’s encounter with the angel, her connection with Elizabeth, and her song of praise✨ The meaning of Immanuel — God with us✨ Why God’s presence is the greatest gift of ChristmasThis sermon is for anyone who is waiting, wondering, or wrestling with what God is asking of them this season.📖 Key Scriptures:Luke 1:26–55 | Isaiah 7:14 | Matthew 1:23 | Matthew 28:20👇 Explore more► Watch the full Candid Christmas series playlist► Get sermon notes at bethanymissionary.com (or link if you have one)► Follow us for weekly encouragement🙏 We’d love to hear from you:Comment below — What does being ready for God look like in your life right now?👍 Like if this message encouraged you🔔 Subscribe for more weekly sermons and teachings#ChristmasMessage #MarySermon #GodWithUs #Luke1 #Immanuel #ChristianSermon #AdventMessage #BethanyMissionaryChurch

Candid Christmas | Week 2: The Shepherds’ Perspective📖 Luke 2:8–20What if the first people to hear the good news of Jesus’ birth weren’t powerful, polished, or important by the world’s standards? In Week 2 of our Candid Christmas series, we explore the story of the shepherds in Luke 2:8–20 and discover why God chose ordinary, overlooked people to be the first witnesses of the Savior’s arrival.In this message, we unpack the shepherds’ perspective and draw powerful parallels to David the shepherd, who stepped out in faith to slay Goliath. Just as God used David’s faithfulness in the fields, He used the shepherds’ obedience and willingness to respond to the angel’s message. This teaching reminds us that God often works through those who are available, faithful, and willing to trust Him—no matter how unlikely they may seem.Whether you feel unseen, unqualified, or stuck in the “ordinary,” this message will encourage you to see how God can use your obedience to accomplish something extraordinary.👉 Key Scripture: Luke 2:8–20👉 Series: Candid Christmas👉 Message Theme: God uses ordinary people to accomplish His extraordinary purposesIf this message encourages you, be sure to like, subscribe, and share it with someone who needs hope this Christmas season.#CandidChristmas #ChristmasSermon #Shepherds #Luke2 #DavidAndGoliath #ChristmasMessage #BirthOfJesus #Faith #Obedience #JesusIsBorn #BethanyMissionaryChurch

🎄 Candid Christmas – Week 1 | Two Perspectives: Joseph & Herod | Matthew 1–2Welcome to Week 1 of our Candid Christmas series at Bethany Missionary Church! This week, Dylan Miller kicked off the series by exploring two very different responses to the birth of Jesus—Joseph and Herod.In Matthew 1 & 2, we see the contrast clearly:✨ Joseph — faithful, obedient, and chosen to be the earthly father of Christ.⚔️ Herod — fearful, threatened, and known throughout history as a tyrant and murderer.Through these two perspectives, we’re reminded that the arrival of Jesus forces a response. Will we trust God like Joseph… or cling to control like Herod?If you’re looking for:🔹 A deeper look at the Christmas story🔹 Practical and relatable Bible teaching🔹 A fresh perspective on Matthew 1–2…you’re in the right place.Whether you're watching with your family, your Grow Group, or on your own, we pray this message encourages you to embrace the kind of faith that leads to obedience, peace, and purpose.👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to stay connected with future messages!#CandidChristmas #BethanyMissionaryChurch #ChristmasSermon #JosephAndHerod #Matthew1 #Matthew2 #BibleTeaching #Christmas2025 #ElkhartChurch #ChristianMessage

What does it really cost to follow Jesus? In Week 4 of our “Crazy Love” series, Pastor Ryan Lutz unpacks what Jesus meant when He said, “Love one another as I have loved you.” Real, Christ-like love is not cheap. It costs us comfort, convenience, and control—but the cost is always worth it because the cross says we were worth it.In this message, we look at the story of the Rich Young Ruler (Mark 10:17–31) and discover how Jesus calls us into a deeper life of surrender and sacrificial love. We also explore powerful historic examples—Mother Teresa, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Harriet Tubman, and Martin Luther King Jr.—who chose costly love that changed the world.If you're longing for a deeper faith, a bolder obedience, and a love that looks more like Jesus, this message will challenge and encourage you.• What does real Christian love cost?• Following Jesus vs. staying comfortable• Surrendering control to God• Why Jesus challenged the Rich Young Ruler• The difference between belief and discipleship• How costly love reflects the heart of Christ• Why sacrificial love transforms lives• What it means to “love as Jesus loved us”

LOVE THAT BREAKS BARRIERS | Crazy Love (Week 3)John 4:1–30 — Jesus and the Samaritan WomanIn this message, Pastor Ryan explores one of the most powerful moments of Jesus’ ministry: His encounter with the Samaritan woman at the well in John 4:1–30. This story shows us how Jesus breaks through every social, cultural, and personal barrier to reach one hurting person—and how He calls us to do the same.If you’ve ever wondered how to love people who are different, difficult, or distant… this message is for you.In today’s sermon, you’ll discover:✨ How Jesus crossed racial, relational, and religious barriers✨ Why God's love moves toward people, not away✨ What it means to love people who feel unseen or overlooked✨ How to step into conversations that bring healing and hope✨ Practical ways to live out a “Crazy Love” that breaks down wallsThis message is part of our Crazy Love series, where we’re learning what God’s love really looks like—beyond reason, beyond comfort, and beyond barriers.Whether you're exploring faith, new to church, or growing as a disciple of Jesus, we pray this message encourages you to love like Jesus loved.🔔 SUBSCRIBE for more weekly sermons📲 SHARE this with someone who needs encouragement🌐 Website: bethanymissionary.com📍 Elkhart, Indiana📅 Join us Sundays at 10:30 AM

What does it look like when God’s love becomes visible in our lives? In Week 2 of our Crazy Love series, Pastor Ryan Lutz shares how true love leaves a lasting mark—on our families, our neighbors, our community, and our world.Using Jesus’ words in Matthew 5:14–16 (“You are the light of the world”), we explore how love shines brightest when it is lived out in real, practical, sacrificial ways. When love becomes visible, it brings glory to God and hope to the world.In this message we’ll discover:✔ How love meets people right where they are✔ How love invites people into their next step✔ How love points people back to the Father✔ How the Good Samaritan shows us what visible love really looks like✔ How God’s crazy love for us empowers us to love othersLast week, we defined Crazy Love as “the restoration of a relationship that looks broken beyond repair.”This week, we learn how restored people become radiant people.Whether you’re exploring faith or looking to grow deeper as a follower of Jesus, this message will encourage you to let your light shine in a dark world.🔔 Subscribe for more sermons from Bethany Missionary Church📍 Located in Elkhart, Indiana🌐 Visit us online: bethanymissionary.com

God’s love doesn’t make sense — it’s crazy love! 💙 In week 1 of our new series, Executive Director Todd Ruth shares how God’s love for us is so extravagant that He runs toward us, no matter how far we’ve wandered. Drawing from the story of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15), this message reminds us that God’s arms are always open.Join us as we discover how Crazy Love changes everything.📖 Scripture: Luke 15:11–32🙌 Series: Crazy Love – Love That Changes Everything🎥 Speaker: Todd Ruth | Executive Director, Bethany Missionary Church📍 Location: Elkhart, Indiana👇 Watch, Like, Comment, & Subscribe for more messages from Bethany Missionary Church!🌐 Visit bethanymissionary.com for more info.#CrazyLove #BethanyMissionaryChurch #ProdigalSon #ToddRuth #GodsLove #Luke15 #ChristianSermon #Faith #LoveThatChangesEverything

What if the greatest difference you can make is still ahead of you? 💭In Week 5 of our Greater series, Pastor Ryan Lutz shares an inspiring message titled “Greater Difference.” Through the story of Nehemiah and real-life examples from our church family, we’re reminded that God uses ordinary people to make an extraordinary impact. No matter your age, stage, or situation—God’s not done using you to make a difference.📖 Series: Greater🎤 Speaker: Pastor Ryan Lutz🏠 Church: Bethany Missionary Church (Elkhart, IN)💻 Website: https://bethanymissionary.com📅 Service Time: Sundays at 10:30 AM#GreaterSeries #GreaterDifference #PastorRyanLutz #BethanyMissionaryChurch #ElkhartChurch #Faith #Purpose #Nehemiah #MakeADifference #ChristianMotivation #ChurchOnline #SundayMessage

Week 4 of our Greater series brings a powerful message titled “Greater Renewal” from Nehemiah 8. In this passage, the people of God experience deep spiritual renewal as they return to God’s Word, rediscover joy, and rebuild their faith from the inside out.In this message, Todd Ruth unpacks how true renewal begins when we let God’s truth shape our hearts and how the joy of the Lord truly becomes our strength. Whether you’re rebuilding your life, your faith, or your hope — this message will remind you that God is not done with you yet.📖 Scripture: Nehemiah 8🎥 Series: Greater📍 Location: Bethany Missionary Church | Elkhart, IN🌐 Learn more: bethanymissionary.com🔔 Subscribe for weekly messages of hope and encouragement!👍 Like, comment, and share this message to help others experience Greater Renewal in their own lives.#GreaterRenewal #Nehemiah8 #GreaterSeries #BethanyMissionaryChurch #BibleTeaching #ElkhartChurch #Renewal #JoyOfTheLord #SpiritualGrowth #ChristianFaith

What does it really mean to have integrity? In this week’s message, Greater Integrity, Pastor Ryan Lutz takes us to Nehemiah 5–6 to explore how God rebuilds the broken walls of our lives. Like Nehemiah rebuilding Jerusalem’s wall, we face both internal distractions and external pressures that threaten our faith. Yet through humility, community, and identity in Christ, Jesus restores what sin and distraction have torn down.In this practical and powerful sermon from the Greater series, discover how to:✅ Recognize the cracks in your spiritual foundation✅ Resist the internal and external forces that weaken integrity✅ Rebuild your life around the person and presence of Jesus📖 Main Scripture: Nehemiah 5–6🎯 Key Theme: Rebuilding the integrity of your life through Jesus

When you choose to do the work of God, opposition is guaranteed. But in the middle of resistance, God calls us to remain prepared, stay in community, and rely on Him for strength.In Week 2 of our Greater series, Pastoral Resident Dylan Miller shares a powerful message from Nehemiah 4, reminding us that true faith isn’t just about building—it’s about battling with God’s strength.Discover how Nehemiah and his people built with one hand and fought with the other, and learn how you can develop greater resistance against the enemy’s attacks in your everyday life.🧱 Key Points:Remain Prepared — Know the enemy’s tactics and arm yourself with God’s Word.Remain in Community — You weren’t meant to fight alone.Rely on God — The battle belongs to the Lord.📖 Main Scripture: Nehemiah 4:1–23💬 Series: Greater (Week 2 – “Greater Resistance”)🎙️ Speaker: Dylan Miller, Pastoral Resident🏠 Church: Bethany Missionary Church | Elkhart, IN📅 Join us Sundays at 10:30 AM | Learn more at bethanymissionary.com#GreaterSeries #BethanyMissionaryChurch #Nehemiah4 #SpiritualWarfare #Faith #ChristianMotivation #Jesus #BibleTeaching #Sermon

What if God’s vision for your life is greater than what you’ve been settling for? In Week 1 of our new series “Greater,” Pastor Ryan Lutz shares how a greater vision begins with God, relies on God, and points back to God.Through Nehemiah’s story and Jesus’ words in John 14:12, we’re reminded that God wants to do more in us and through us than we could ever imagine. This message will inspire you to see beyond what is—and believe in what could be.

What if you were meant to be more than just a receiver of God’s grace—you were meant to be a source of life to the world around you?In the final week of our series The River, Pastor Ryan Lutz unpacks Ezekiel 47:1–12 and 1 Corinthians 3:16 to show how, through Jesus, we are restored as the temple of God. The Gospel brings us back into right relationship with Him, and from our lives now flow rivers of living water (John 7:38).This message makes the Gospel crystal clear:We were created for God’s presence.Sin separated us from Him.Jesus died and rose again to restore us.By faith, we are forgiven, saved, and filled with His Spirit.And it doesn’t stop there. As restored temples, we are released on mission. The Great Commission (Matthew 28:18–20) is our calling to let the river of living water flow from us into our homes, neighborhoods, and the nations. We are commissioned to share Jesus—not alone, but together, empowered by the Spirit (Acts 1:8).💧 Big Idea: Through Jesus, we are restored as God’s temple, and His Spirit flows from us to bring life to a thirsty world.📖 Key Scriptures: Ezekiel 47:1–12, 1 Corinthians 3:16, Romans 3:23, Romans 6:23, 1 Corinthians 15:3–4, John 3:16, Romans 10:9, Matthew 28:18–20, John 7:38, Acts 1:8🔔 Subscribe to stay connected with weekly messages from Bethany Missionary Church.👍 Like this video if it encouraged you.💬 Comment how God is calling you to let His river flow through your life.📲 Share this message to spread the hope of Jesus.#RestoredAndReleased #TheRiverSeries #BethanyMissionaryChurch #Sermon #LivingWater #GreatCommission #Gospel

We continue into the book of John - reading through John 13:1-5.

We continue into the book of John - reading through John 12:44-50.

We continue into the book of John - reading through John 12:42-43.

We continue into the book of John - reading through John 12:37-41.

We continue into the book of John - reading through John 12:34-36.

Where you stand in the river shapes what you see. In Ezekiel’s vision (Ezekiel 47:1–12), the water begins as a trickle and grows into a rushing river that brings life everywhere it flows. But blind spots and limited perspective can keep us stuck in the shallow end—missing the abundant life God has for us.In this message, we look at the story of the man born blind (John 9), Peter stepping out of the boat (Matthew 14), and the parable of the ten virgins (Matthew 25). Each story challenges us to:Change our perspective.Take our step.Move now.Don’t let blind spots hold you back. The river is flowing—step in today.📖 Scripture References:Ezekiel 47:1–12 | John 9 | Matthew 14:28–29 | Matthew 25:1–13

We continue into the book of John - reading through John 12:27-33.

We continue into the book of John - reading through John 12:20-26.

We continue into the book of John - reading through John 12:12-19.

We continue into the book of John - reading through John 12:9-11.

We continue into the book of John - reading through John 12:1-8.

We continue into the book of John - reading through John 11:55-57.

We continue into the book of John - reading through John 11:49-54.

What if your life was meant for more than just getting by? What if you were created for something far greater — a life of impact, growth, and multiplication? In this message from our series The River, we explore God’s vision for His people and discover how the mission of Jesus is never about maintenance, but always about multiplication.Our anchor passage is Ezekiel 47:1–12, where the prophet sees a river that begins as a trickle and grows into a rushing stream that brings life wherever it flows. This powerful vision sets the stage for us to see how God works through ordinary people to create extraordinary impact.We also look at several teachings and moments from the life of Jesus that reveal His heart for multiplication:The Parable of the Mustard Seed and the Parable of the Leaven remind us that multiplication starts small, right where we are.The Parable of the Talents shows us that multiplication requires risk, stewardship, and intentionality.The Feeding of the 5,000 reveals that multiplication ultimately points to Jesus, because it always goes beyond what we can accomplish in our own strength.This message is for anyone searching for hope, direction, or a deeper sense of purpose. Whether you’re a long-time follower of Jesus or just curious about faith, you’ll be encouraged to see how God can take what you have — no matter how small — and use it to bring life to others.If you’re looking for inspiration, teaching from the Bible, and a vision for living beyond maintenance, this sermon will help you step into the multiplying life God designed you for.

We continue into the book of John - reading through John 11:45-48.

We continue into the book of John - reading through John 11:38-44.

We continue into the book of John - reading through John 11:28-37.

We continue into the book of John - reading through John 11:17-26.