Calvary Church

This message explores the idea that words are incredibly powerful. They don’t just describe things, they do things. Christians as prophets have been equipped with this power to speak God’s words to people who desperately need to hear what He has to say. Understanding this power, we pray that the Lord may touch our lips and put His words in our mouths. Jim Samra | Minister & Senior Pastor This was recorded live in Grand Rapids, MI on September 20, 2026

In Jeremiah babies are central to the plans and purposes of God. In this message we look together at how babies represent both the problems and the blessings that God wants to address today. Please note: This message discusses the issue of abortion, both the sin that it is and the hope that Jesus offers. If abortion – or a pregnancy in difficult circumstances – is part of your story, we want to walk with you in this. For prayer and counsel as you process this sermon, contact Christie Thompson, Calvary Care Ministry Assistant at (616)956-5628 to make an appointment. We have staff and congregants who understand difficult journeys and want to come alongside you. For men and women who have abortion as part of their story, you can find more information and support at Garden of Hope. For women facing a pregnancy in the midst of difficult circumstances, consider joining Flourish – our Bible study for single moms of small children. This group will help you connect with other resources of the church as well. Contact Sheri at (616)956-5524 to learn more. You can also find support and resources through Calvary’s community partner, Alpha Grand Rapids. For those grieving a miscarriage or the loss of an infant, Hannah’s Heart is a Calvary ministry provides comfort and support for women, couples, and families. They would be so honored to walk with you and encourage you on this incredibly difficult journey. Contact [email protected]. Jim Samra | Minister & Senior Pastor This was recorded live in Grand Rapids, MI on September 20, 2026

This message introduces our new series for 2026-2027, studying the Old Testament book of Jeremiah. To lay the foundation for why God has led us to this book for this season, we are looking at the role of the church within society. Through this time, we will see how God will use Jeremiah to help us be the people who can live out that role. Jim Samra | Minister & Senior Pastor This was recorded live in Grand Rapids, MI on September 13, 2026

Joseph is a fitting end to our Abundant Lives series because in many ways the whole series is about some of the lesser known, behind the scenes characters of the Bible, if you will. But as I have said from the beginning, they are lesser known to us not to God. And the principle from Joseph’s life and really from the whole series is, if you choose to be a righteous person, if you obey God and if you are willing to accept that most of us get assigned “behind the scenes” type roles God will accomplish great things through you and you will live an abundant life. Jim Samra | Minister & Senior Pastor This was recorded live in Grand Rapids, MI on September 6, 2026

In this message we see that just as God chose Mary Magdalene to receive the truth of Jesus and to share it with others, God is choosing us to receive that truth and to share it with others. Yes, we are not the first, she is. But our story looks like her story because Jesus is the same in our story as he is in her story. May we be inspired and encouraged as examine Mary more closely. Jim Samra | Minister & Senior Pastor This was recorded live in Grand Rapids, MI on August 30, 2026

This message, looking at a difficult story in Genesis 38, is an encouragement to all who are going through unjust and unprovoked suffering. Abundant life and abundant blessings come when we faithfully endure. And, while we know Tamar’s deception is not from God, her faithfulness to submit to her situation and to make the best of some really hard situations was. Jim Samra | Minister & Senior Pastor This was recorded live in Grand Rapids, MI on August 23, 2026

Jim Samra | Minister & Senior Pastor This was recorded live in Grand Rapids, MI on August 9, 2026

Don Hancock | Minister & Director, Senior Adult Ministry This was recorded live in Grand Rapids, MI on August 9, 2026

Minister & Senior Pastor, Jim Samra This was recorded live in Grand Rapids, MI on August 2, 2026

This message looks at the life of Tabitha, a beloved disciple known for all she did for the poor. As we examine her life and resurrection, we see the key for those of us who long to feel alive and full of life. Minister & Senior Pastor, Jim Samra This was recorded live in Grand Rapids, MI on July 26, 2026

In this message, we are reminded that the sufferings of this life are not worthy to be compared to the glory that will be revealed when Christ returns. As we look at the life of James, we see his desire was to have a great place in the kingdom of God. And while it looks different than expected, Jesus has granted that to him and to all who are willing to join him in being sons and daughters of thunder. Minister & Senior Pastor, Jim Samra This was recorded live in Grand Rapids, MI on July 19, 2026

The Bible tells us that without faith it is impossible to please God and so, in this message, we have the opportunity to examine another life in ourAbundant Lives series. So far we have looked at a king, a judge, two skilled workers, a widow, a prophetess, a tribal leader, a government official, a citizen of Sodom, and more. In Joshua 2, we meet a prostitute, Rahab, who turns out to be one of the Bible’s foremost examples of what it means to have faith. Minister & Senior Pastor, Jim Samra This was recorded live in Grand Rapids, MI on July 12, 2026

Minister & Lead Pastor, Tom Olsson This was recorded live in Grand Rapids, MI on July 5, 2026

One of the blessings of this Abundant Lives series is that we get to see how the life of Jesus plays itself out in all sorts of different lives. So far we have looked at a tribal leader, a female prophet, a king, a government official, a widow, and a citizen living in Sodom and Gomorrah. In this message, we have the opportunity to meet two men that we might call the patron saints of working professionals. They demonstrate how skilled craftsman, artists, business professionals, educators, and workers everywhere can be filled with God’s Spirit and used for great things. Minister & Senior Pastor, Jim Samra This was recorded live in Grand Rapids, MI on June 28, 2026

In looking at the life of Caleb, we find that one of the keys to an abundant life is seeing today’s giants through the lens of yesterday’s faithfulness. Pastoral Resident, Gabriel Jorden This was recorded live in Grand Rapids, MI on June 21, 2026

For this message, we are looking at the Huldah, a prophet from the time of King Josiah. This message considers the truth of Scripture about God’s role for women, especially as prophets, through the lens of Huldah’s life. It is an encouragement that, as God tells us in Joel, he does and will continue to pour out His Spirit on women that they would prophesy. It also includes a warning against treating prophecy with contempt, or treating women who prophesy with contempt, because then we are treating the Spirit with contempt. Minister & Senior Pastor, Jim Samra This was recorded live in Grand Rapids, MI on June 14, 2026

It is amazing how often in life we come to points where we are faced with our own mistakes and we have the chance to admit that we are wrong and turn from what we are doing or be defensive, double down and dig in. In this message, we look at a tragic character from the Bible who after a great start in life ends up at a critical moment when everything rides on admitting that he’s wrong. Sadly, he stands as a stark warning of what not to do. Minister & Senior Pastor, Jim Samra This was recorded live in Grand Rapids, MI on June 7, 2026

In examining the life of Jotham, King of Judah, we have the opportunity to look at what makes a person steadfast. Jotham is revered as a leader because instead of focusing internally, bowing to what people want or how people will perceive his decisions, he keeps his focus on God. May this be a lesson to all of us to turn from the temptations of pride and people pleasing and keep our eyes on the Lord. Minister & Senior Pastor, Jim Samra This was recorded live in Grand Rapids, MI on May 31, 2026

Calvary Church, Grand Rapids, MI Senior Pastor Dr. Jim Samra (616)956-9377

Calvary Church, Grand Rapids, MI Senior Pastor Dr. Jim Samra (616)956-9377

In this message, we’ll explore Anna, a prophet and a widow who had a special connection to baby Jesus. As we learn more about her life, we have the opportunity to examine our own stories and decide whether we will look at them through the lens of the world, or through the lens of Scripture. An encouraging word for each of us on what is also Mother’s Day. Minister & Senior Pastor, Jim Samra Passage: Luke 2:36-38 This was recorded live in Grand Rapids, MI on May 10, 2026

As we conclude our look at the Risen Christ, we’ll examine the ways in which God provides for us. As we see Jesus provide for the disciples in John 21, we’ll find that He cares in the same way about our needs and provides abundantly for them. Minister & Lead Pastor, Tom Olsson Passage: John 21:1-14 This was recorded live in Grand Rapids, MI on May 3, 2026

With this message we are continuing our series on The Risen Christ by again looking at Jesus’ first interaction with his disciples following his resurrection from the dead. The first words out his mouth were a proclamation of peace. Then he gave them their purpose. Now, he assures them that they will not be alone. And with this assurance comes the next gift we receive, power. Let’s explore that together. The Holy Spirit: Convicts (John 16:8) Regenerates (John 3:5-8) Enables (1 Corinthians 12:3) Justifies (1 Corinthians 6:11) Adopts (Romans 8:15) Indwells (Romans 8:11) Illuminates (John 16:13) Intercedes (Romans 8:26) Leads (Acts 16:6-7) Fills (Ephesians 5:18) Empowers (Acts 1:8) Sanctifies (2 Corinthians 3:18) Speaks (Acts 13:2) Unifies (Ephesians 4:1-3) Cultivates intimacy (John 14:23) Glorifies Christ (John 16:14) Gifts (1 Corinthians 12:7) The disciples and their travels: Peter (Simon Peter) – Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, Pontus, Galatia, Cappodocia, Rome Andrew – Scythia, Thrace, Greece (Achaia, Patras) James (son of Zebedee) – Jerusalem, Judea John – Jerusalem, Ephesus, Asia Minor, Patmos Philip – Phrygia (Hierapolis), Greek-speaking communities Bartholomew (Nathanael) – Armenia, India, Ethiopia, Mesopotamia Thomas (Didymus) – Parthia, India, Ethiopia, Mesopotamia Matthew (Levi) – Judea, Persia, Parthia, Ethiopia James (son of Alphaeus) – Judea, Edessa, Syria, Egypt Jude (Thaddeus/Lebbaeus) – Mesopotamia, Armenia, Persia, Syria Simon the Zealot – Persia, Armenia, Egypt, North Africa (varied traditions) Matthias – Judea, Cappadocia, Caspian Sea coasts, Colchis (Georgia) Speaker: Minister & Lead Pastor, Tom Olsson Passage: John 20:22 This was recorded live in Grand Rapids, MI on April 26, 2026

In this message, we see that just like Jesus provided for his disciples, God has a great purpose for our lives. God has a mission of reconciliation for each of us who choose to follow Him. Whether you are living as an ambassador for Christ, or simply a tourist, there is a word for you as we continue examining the risen Christ. Speaker: Minister & Lead Pastor, Tom Olsson Passage: John 20:21 This was recorded live in Grand Rapids, MI on April 19, 2026

Most of us recognize the turmoil in our lives, and the turmoil all around us, and we simply wish for peace to take hold. With this message, we are starting a four-week series on The Risen Christ with a focus on the peace that Jesus gives. Together we’ll see what that peace is and how we can experience it personally. Speaker: Minister & Lead Pastor, Tom Olsson Passage: John 20:19-21 This was recorded live in Grand Rapids, MI on April 12, 2026

As we close out our series in the Epistles of John, we are shown one of the final keys to experiencing a life of abundance. Throughout this series, we have seen that the true “good life” comes from loving and obeying Jesus. Looking at the story of Palm Sunday, we see how that obedience and love often looks like putting the needs of others above our own. May you be encouraged to examine where you are putting yourself before others and see how you can reorder your love to truly experience the abundant life. Speaker: Minister & Lead Pastor, Tom Olsson Passage: 3 John 1:9-12 This was recorded live in Grand Rapids, MI on March 29, 2026

Speaker: Lead Pastor, The Local Church, Toran Scott Passage: Exodus 19 This was recorded live in Grand Rapids, MI on March 22, 2026

In this message, we look at the role of the church in addressing political issues. As this passage in 3 John highlights immigrants, refugees and foreigners it’s a good opportunity to look at the difference in how government is tasked with approaching these groups of people versus how God has tasked the church to do so. Together, we will see how we as the church have been asked to love immigrants, be compassionate toward refugees, and come alongside of those who are foreigners among us. Speaker: Minister & Lead Pastor, Jim Samra Passage: 3 John 1:1-8 This was recorded live in Grand Rapids, MI on March 15, 2026

Speaker: Minister & Lead Pastor, Jim Samra Passage: 2 John 7-13 This was recorded live in Grand Rapids, MI on March 1, 2026

Speaker: Minister & Lead Pastor, Jim Samra Passage: 2 John 1-6 This was recorded live in Grand Rapids, MI on February 22, 2026

Throughout this series, we have talked about the blessings and benefits that come from having Jesus in our lives. In this message we are reminded that we are forgiven through Jesus, we experience the fact that God is love through Jesus, and now we find out that we are safe from ultimate harm and given true understanding because of Jesus. As we move from here, shouldn’t we tell others about this? Speaker: Minister & Lead Pastor, Jim Samra Passage: 1 John 5:18-21 This was recorded live in Grand Rapids, MI on February 15, 2026

In this message, we are talking about approaching our Father in heaven in prayer. As we have been going through the book of 1 John we have been focused on recognizing the benefits of receiving Jesus in our lives. One of the great benefits is that Jesus enables us to pray effectively to God. As we look at 1 John 5:13-17, we’ll think together about the confidence we have in prayer as well as the content of our prayers. Speaker: Minister & Lead Pastor, Jim Samra Passage: 1 John 5:13-17 This was recorded live in Grand Rapids, MI on February 8, 2026

Speaker: Pastor, Sanctuary Church, Lenski Llorens Passage: Jeremiah 29:1-14 This was recorded live in Grand Rapids, MI on February 1, 2026

This message covers an important passage for affirming that Jesus is both human and divine. We will look at why this truth is essential to our faith as Christians. And we’ll talk about the practicalities of how we live this out. Speaker: Minister & Lead Pastor, Jim Samra Passage: 1 John 5:5-12 This was recorded live in Grand Rapids, MI on January 25, 2026

In this message, we see that the commands of God are not burdensome. They are just what we need in the moment we need them. They introduce us to the kingdom of God, they let us show God that we are serious about our relationship with Him and they are clear straightforward ways of loving God and loving others. Speaker: Minister & Lead Pastor, Jim Samra Passage: 1 John 5:1-4

Speaker: Pastor, Indwelling Community Church, Clarence Stamps Passage: Psalm 107 This was recorded live in Grand Rapids, MI on January 11, 2026

Speaker: Minister & Lead Pastor, Tom Olsson Passage: 1 John 4:15-19 This was recorded live in Grand Rapids, MI on January 4, 2026

In this message, we look at how we should respond to the great gift of love God has lavished on us. Speaker: Minister & Senior Pastor, Jim Samra Passage: 1 John 4:7-21 This was recorded live in Grand Rapids, MI on December 28, 2025

We look for the second week at the most momentous statement in the Bible: God is love. In this message, we come to understand a little more of what that means. There is no love without cost. As we delve into this reality, we will see what it cost God to love us. The hope is that this Christmas you will truly understand how loved you are by Him. Speaker: Minister & Senior Pastor, Jim Samra Passage: 1 John 4:9-10 This was recorded live in Grand Rapids, MI on December 21, 2025

This message looks at the most momentous statement in all the Bible. Which is a big claim because the Bible has lots of powerful and important affirmations! As we explore this statement, we’ll learn more about who God is and how we benefit when we receive Jesus. Speaker: Minister & Senior Pastor, Jim Samra Passage: 1 John 4:7-21 This was recorded live in Grand Rapids, MI on December 14, 2025

This message looks at what John means in chapter 4 when he says that children of God have overcome the world. We see that in Jesus’ life, death, resurrection, and ascension, He has overcome. Therefore, when we accept Him we are given His Spirit and through His Spirit we have already overcome the world. As we then partake in communion, we are reminded that our job is not then to reform the cultures, technologies and systems of this world, but to speak the Word of God to those who are trapped in those systems and invite them to receive Jesus, the Word of Life, so they can overcome. Speaker: Minister & Senior Pastor, Jim Samra Passage: 1 John 4:4-6 This was recorded live in Grand Rapids, MI on December 7, 2025

This Sunday is the beginning of Advent, a season of preparation in the church calendar before we celebrate the birth of Jesus at Christmas. Each week of this season follows a theme, and for this Sunday it is hope. Biblical hope is anchored in a God who does not change, who keeps His promises, and who is coming again to rule and redeem. On this cold, snowy night we are reminded that the light of Christ has come to be with us and break through the darkness. While we cannot be together this Sunday to acknowledge that light and proclaim our hope in Christ as a body, we are grateful for the technology that allows us to share an abbreviated worship experience with each of you. The service includes song, prayer, and a word from 1 John 4 delivered by Young Adults Minister & Director, Jon Nuenke. May the Lord graciously be with you in the midst of these unique circumstances. Speaker: Minister & Director of Young Adult Ministry, Jon Nuenke Passage: 1 John 4:1-3 This was recorded live in Grand Rapids, MI on November 29, 2025

This Sunday is the beginning of Advent, a season of preparation in the church calendar before we celebrate the birth of Jesus at Christmas. Each week of this season follows a theme, and for this Sunday it is hope. Biblical hope is anchored in a God who does not change, who keeps His promises, and who is coming again to rule and redeem. On this cold, snowy night we are reminded that the light of Christ has come to be with us and break through the darkness. While we cannot be together this Sunday to acknowledge that light and proclaim our hope in Christ as a body, we are grateful for the technology that allows us to share an abbreviated worship experience with each of you. The service includes song, prayer, and a word from 1 John 4 delivered by Young Adults Minister & Director, Jon Nuenke. May the Lord graciously be with you in the midst of these unique circumstances. Speaker: Minister & Director of Young Adult Ministry, Jon Nuenke Passage: 1 John 4:1-3 This was recorded live in Grand Rapids, MI on November 29, 2025

In this message we see that God gave us His Spirit to help us discern His voice from the others that enter our heart. Whether you struggle with an inner critic, a guilt complex, impostor syndrome, or crippling insecurity, know that this is not from God. God has given us His Spirit so that we might learn not to listen to the voice from our hearts that condemns us but to listen to His voice, the voice that loves us enough to make us His children. Speaker: Minister & Senior Pastor, Jim Samra Passage: 1 John 3:19-24 This was recorded live in Grand Rapids, MI on November 23, 2025

There have been times in all of our lives when we have wondered about our purpose. But for those who have Jesus, you are a child of God and that gives you purpose. Your purpose is to love others! We’ll explore the implications of this purpose more in this message. Speaker: Minister & Lead Pastor, Tom Olsson Passage: 1 John 3:11-18 This was recorded live in Grand Rapids, MI on November 16, 2025

Calvary Church, Grand Rapids, MI Senior Pastor Dr. Jim Samra (616)956-9377

Calvary Church, Grand Rapids, MI Senior Pastor Dr. Jim Samra (616)956-9377

God has written a great story, and we are right in the middle of it. The middle is not an easy place to be. There are antichrists all around us and the spirit of antichrist is at work in this world. And even more, an Antichrist is coming. In this sermon we are encouraged to remember, it’s still God’s story and He is the author. Rescue is coming! Jesus is going to return! The question is are we ready for that return? Speaker: Minister & Lead Pastor, Tom Olsson Passage: 1 John 2:28-29 This was recorded live in Grand Rapids, MI on October 26, 2025

In this message, we see that the Bible makes it clear there is an end-time Antichrist figure coming. We don’t know when, but it is already decreed and there is no stopping it. The far bigger concern for us today though is that the spirit of antichrist is rampant in our culture and in our world. This message tells the story of the Antichrist and helps us recognize that spirit of antichrist at work in this world. As we listen, we’ll learn to embrace the Spirit of the real Christ, the Spirit of the True Messiah so we are not led astray. Speaker: Minister & Senior Pastor, Jim Samra Passage: 1 John 2:18-27 This was recorded live in Grand Rapids, MI on October 19, 2025

We all enjoy the things of this world, and this enjoyment is from God. However there is always a danger that good stuff lapses into a love that is unhealthy. In this sermon we look at discerning if we are loving the things of this world too much and how God can help us stop. May God give us the humility to hear this from him and accept it. Speaker: Minister & Senior Pastor, Jim Samra Passage: 1 John 2:15-17 This was recorded live in Grand Rapids, MI on October 12, 2025