Eagles View Church

What are you wrestling with? In this message from The Big Picture, Pastor Bart walks through the life of Jacob, a man who spent years trying to control outcomes, manipulate circumstances, and grab what he wanted for himself. But when Jacob finally wrestled with God, everything changed.Jacob discovered that the blessing he had spent his life chasing could only be received from God. His story points us to the Gospel, where Jesus was wounded so that we could receive by grace what we could never earn. Sometimes God changes our circumstances. Other times, He changes the wrestler.

Twenty-seven years ago, EVC began with nine people gathered in a living room asking, “What would happen if we actually became the kind of church we read about in Acts?” In this State of the Church message, Pastor Bart celebrates what God has done, reaffirms the biblical convictions that continue to shape EVC, and shares where we believe God is leading us next.From reaching the next generation and bringing hope to hurting people to multiplying churches and advancing the Gospel, the future is filled with opportunity. But it all begins where Acts 2 began: ordinary people devoted to Jesus and His mission.

The Church is more than a building we attend. It is a people called by God and built together around Jesus. Looking at Matthew 16 and 1 Peter 2, we discover that every believer is a living stone with a unique place in what Christ is building. We saw this through the stories of Logan, Ella, and Austin, who shared how serving at EVC has helped shape their faith and deepen their relationship with Jesus. As we connect with one another and use our gifts to serve, God works through us to impact others while continuing to transform us into the people He has called us to be.

Pastor Bart follows God's call to Abraham and the promise that would eventually bring blessing to every nation. From leaving everything familiar to waiting years for God's promise to be fulfilled, Abraham's story reminds us that faith means trusting God even when we cannot see the whole road ahead.Through Genesis 15, we also discover that God's promises rest on His faithfulness, not ours. Abraham failed, Israel failed, and we fail too, but Jesus remained faithful and bore the curse our sin deserved. Through Christ, the blessing promised to Abraham has reached the nations, including us.

The Bible isn't a collection of disconnected stories. It's one incredible story pointing to one Savior. In the first message of The Big Picture, Pastor Bart walks through Genesis 1–3 to show how humanity was created for relationship with God, how sin brought separation, and how the promise of Jesus began in the Garden. Discover how every page of Scripture reveals God's plan to pursue and redeem His people.

What are you convinced of? In this message, EVC Elder, John Abendschan, walks through the life of Paul to show how a deep confidence in God's love changes the way we respond to suffering, uncertainty, and hardship. When we are convinced that nothing can separate us from Christ, we can live with faith, hope, and an eternal perspective—no matter what life brings.

Where do we find comfort when life is difficult? In 2 Corinthians 1:3–7, we discover that God is the source of all comfort. As He meets us in our suffering, He also equips us to comfort others with the same grace we've received. Whether through our presence, encouragement, service, or the hope of Christ's return, God uses His people to bring His comfort to a hurting world.

What does true humility look like? In Philippians 2:1–11, Paul points us to Jesus as the ultimate example. Though He is fully God, Jesus willingly humbled Himself by becoming a servant and giving His life for us. As followers of Christ, we are called to set aside pride, consider others above ourselves, and reflect His sacrificial love in every relationship. True greatness in God's Kingdom is found through humble service.

Following Jesus was never meant to be a solo journey. In James 5:13–18, we discover that God calls His people to pray together, confess their struggles, and support one another through every season of life. Healing begins when we step out of isolation and into the light, trusting that God's grace is greater than our shame and that His people were designed to walk alongside us.

Forgiveness is one of the hardest commands Jesus gives us, yet it sits at the very heart of the Gospel. In this message from Colossians 3:12-13, we discover that forgiveness is not simply an action, but evidence of a transformed identity in Christ. As followers of Jesus, we are called to extend the same grace and mercy that we have received through Him. When the cross becomes bigger than our bitterness, healing and freedom begin.

In Galatians 6, Paul reminds believers that following Jesus was never meant to be a solo journey. We are called to lovingly and gently walk alongside one another, helping carry burdens, restoring those who are struggling, and pointing each other back to the Gospel. Rather than approaching others with pride or condemnation, we are called to serve with humility, remembering our own need for God's grace.This message challenges us to move toward people who are hurting, recognizing that healthy Christian community asks not, "What have you done?" but "Where have you been?" As followers of Jesus, we are called to bear one another's burdens and reflect Christ's love by walking together through every season of life.

In this Father's Day message, we continued our One Another series by looking at the biblical call to Serve One Another from Galatians 5:13. Through the stories of Othniel, Ehud, and Shamgar in Judges 3, we discovered that God equips His people to serve by filling them with the Holy Spirit, preparing them through His Word, and using the gifts and opportunities already in their hands.No matter your background, abilities, or season of life, God can use you to make an impact. Christian freedom is not meant for self-centered living but for loving and serving others. As we surrender to the Spirit, apply God's truth to our lives, and faithfully use what He has given us, we become instruments of His grace in the lives of those around us.

This week, Pastor Daniel continued our One Another series by exploring the call to encourage one another from Hebrews 10:24-25. He reminded us that the Christian life was never meant to be lived alone. God designed His people to strengthen, challenge, and support one another so that faith, love, and perseverance can endure through every season of life.Through personal stories and biblical teaching, we were challenged to see encouragement as more than kind words. Encouragement is love in action. It helps guard against spiritual drift, fuels perseverance, and reminds us that God often works through His people to bring hope, healing, and strength. As followers of Jesus, we are called to intentionally move toward one another, speak truth in love, and help each other keep our eyes fixed on Christ.

This week, we looked at Jesus’ command to “love one another” in John 13 and what it means to live as people marked by the love of Christ. Jesus made it clear that love is the defining evidence that we belong to Him, and followers of Jesus are called to reflect something different from the world around them.Through this message, we were reminded that biblical love is more than kindness or good intentions. It is a daily choice to reflect the grace, humility, and sacrificial love of Jesus in the way we treat others.

In John 13, Jesus gathers with His disciples on the night before the cross and does something completely unexpected. While the disciples are focused on status and greatness, Jesus kneels down and begins washing their feet, taking the position of a servant. Even knowing betrayal, denial, and suffering were coming, Jesus responds with humility, grace, and sacrificial love.This message explores what it means to find our identity securely in Christ instead of striving for recognition and approval. Through the washing of feet, Jesus shows that the Gospel is not about self-improvement, but surrender and cleansing that only He can provide. Ultimately, we are challenged to receive His grace deeply and then reflect His heart by humbly serving others with love.

What do you do when Jesus feels late? In John 11, Martha and Mary are grieving the loss of their brother Lazarus, confused why Jesus did not arrive sooner. As Jesus steps into their pain, He reveals that He is not distant from suffering, but deeply moved by it. Through this powerful story, we see both the compassion of Christ and His declaration that He is “the resurrection and the life.”This message explores grief, disappointment, trust, and the difficult questions we wrestle with when God’s timing does not make sense. Ultimately, we are reminded that even when Jesus feels late, He is still loving, still present, and still working in ways we cannot yet fully see.

What do we do when life feels broken and we are left asking “Why?” In John 9, Jesus encounters a man who had been blind from birth, and His disciples assume someone must be to blame for the suffering. But Jesus completely reframes the conversation, revealing that even in brokenness, God can still move powerfully and bring redemption.As the story unfolds, Jesus heals the man in an unexpected way, while the religious leaders grow increasingly resistant to believing what is right in front of them. This message explores suffering, spiritual blindness, surrender, and what it truly means to believe in Jesus. Ultimately, we are reminded that faith is not having every answer, but trusting that Jesus is still bringing light into the darkest places of our lives.

What do you do when life feels stuck? In John 5, Jesus meets a man who had been waiting thirty-eight years for things to change. Surrounded by disappointment and hopelessness, he had begun to believe this was simply the way life would always be. But Jesus steps directly into his pain and asks a powerful question: “Do you want to be healed?”This message reminds us that Jesus still sees people in their waiting, weariness, and struggles today. He invites us to stop settling into hopelessness and trust Him again, even when life feels uncertain. Ultimately, Jesus didn’t just come to offer temporary relief, but lasting healing, restoration, and new life through Him.

What if you’re more thirsty than you realize?In John 4, a Samaritan woman comes to draw water at the hottest part of the day, trying to avoid the weight of her past and the judgment of others. But Jesus meets her there and offers something deeper. Not temporary relief, but living water that satisfies forever.In this message, Pastor Bart shows how Jesus intentionally stepped into uncomfortable, unlikely places to reach one broken person. And the same is true for us. He meets us right where we are and invites us into something new.

In this message, we follow a conversation between Jesus and a highly religious leader named Nicodemus, a man who had spent his life doing all the right things and checking every spiritual box. But Jesus completely flips his understanding upside down.Instead of offering a better list or more rules, Jesus reveals something shocking: it’s not about trying harder or being better, it’s about being made new. Real transformation doesn’t come from external religion, but from an internal change that only God can do.Through powerful illustrations and a look back at the Old Testament, this message shows that salvation isn’t something we achieve, it’s something we receive. Just like people in the wilderness had to look up in faith to be saved, we’re invited to look to Jesus and trust Him for new life.Whether you’ve been around church your whole life or you’re just exploring faith, this message challenges the idea that being “good enough” is the goal and instead points to a relationship with Jesus that changes everything.

Jesus’ first miracle wasn’t flashy or expected. It happened at a wedding where the wine ran out, a moment of deep shame for the family. But instead of ignoring it, Jesus stepped right into their embarrassment and transformed it. This wasn’t just about saving a celebration. It was a sign pointing to something greater. Jesus didn’t come to fix surface problems or promote empty religion. He came to change hearts and bring lasting joy. In this message, we’re reminded that following Jesus isn’t about striving to look right on the outside. It’s about being transformed from the inside out and stepping into a real relationship with Him. Because when Jesus shows up, He doesn’t just meet the need. He saves the best for last.

Jesus sees us even in our searching. In this message from John 1, we follow Nathanael’s journey from skepticism to belief as he encounters Jesus, who knows him deeply and calls him personally. What begins as a search for something to fix what feels broken becomes an invitation to surrender to the One who truly satisfies. This message reminds us that the answer to our searching isn’t found in more things or better circumstances, but in a relationship with Jesus, who sees us, knows us, and invites us to follow Him.

Jesus didn’t just rise from the grave, He still meets people personally today. In this Easter message, we walk through John 20 and Mary Magdalene’s encounter with the risen Jesus. In the middle of her grief, confusion, and searching, Jesus calls her by name and everything changes. This message is a reminder that you don’t have to have it all figured out to come to Him. Whether you’re exploring faith, struggling, or feeling distant, the risen Jesus knows your name and is calling you to believe.

At this year’s Cross Service, we did not just hear about the cross. We experienced it.As Pastor Bart carried and built the cross on stage, we walked through the full story of Scripture, from Adam and the first sacrifice, to Abraham’s faith, to the sacrificial system, all pointing to one moment: Jesus, the perfect Lamb of God.This message brings the weight of the cross up close, showing that Jesus did not just suffer. He took our place. Every nail, every wound, every moment was for us.The cross is not just history. It is personal. And it leaves us with a question: will we receive what Jesus has done, or reject it?

In Mark 15, we see several groups faced with a choice about Jesus.The religious leaders reject Him out of envy.Pilate knows the truth but gives in to pressure.The crowd follows the noise and chooses wrongly.The soldiers mock what they don’t understand.And Barabbas walks free while Jesus takes his place.Each response reveals something about the human heart—and points back to one question:What will you do with Jesus?Even in the shadows of broken choices, God is still working out redemption.

In this message from Mark 14:53–72, we look at the Jewish trial of Jesus and the powerful contrast between Jesus and Peter during one of the most intense moments leading up to the cross.While false accusations are brought against Him, Jesus remains silent until the most important question is asked: “Are you the Messiah?” In that moment, Jesus boldly speaks the truth, fully surrendering to the will of the Father even though it will lead to suffering and the cross.Meanwhile, Peter finds himself in the courtyard below, warming by the fire and facing his own moment of pressure. Afraid and overwhelmed, he denies even knowing Jesus.This passage reminds us that when life falls apart and our plans crumble, we often find ourselves on one of two paths: following our flesh like Peter, or trusting the will of God like Jesus. Yet even in our failures, the story of the cross is ultimately a story of redemption, restoration, and hope.

In Pastor Bart's message, Shadows of Failure, we step into one of the most sobering moments before the cross in Mark 14. Jesus warns His disciples that they will all fall away, yet Peter confidently insists he will never fail. Within hours, overconfidence gives way to fear, and the disciples scatter as Jesus is arrested.This message explores why sincere followers of Jesus can still stumble and what we can learn from their failure. It reminds us that overconfidence can quietly set us up for compromise, while humility, prayer, and wise guardrails help us remain faithful when pressure rises.Most importantly, this passage reveals the hope of the gospel. Even when the disciples failed, Jesus remained faithful to His mission and to them. Our story does not end with failure because Jesus restores, refines, and calls us back to follow Him again.Discover how God can use even our failures to shape us, restore us, and draw us closer to Him.

This week we began our new series Into the Shadows, walking through the final hours leading up to the cross. In Mark 14, the tension surrounding Jesus begins to build as different groups struggle with their expectations of who He should be. In the middle of it all, a woman pours out an extravagant gift of worship, while Judas chooses to walk away because Jesus didn’t fit his plans. The message challenges us to consider our own response: when life doesn’t go the way we hoped, will we hold back from Jesus or pour out our lives in surrender to Him?

In this message, we explore how the grace we receive from God transforms the way we live and give. Looking at Acts 4–5, we see two contrasting examples: Barnabas, whose generosity flowed from a heart surrendered to Christ, and Ananias and Sapphira, who sought the appearance of generosity without true surrender. Through the story of the early church, we’re reminded that when God’s grace fills our hearts, generosity naturally follows. As a church on mission, we’re invited to participate in what God is doing locally and around the world by living with open hands and faithful hearts.

In this message, we’re reminded that following Jesus means joining Him in His work around the world, especially alongside believers who face persecution for their faith. Drawing from Matthew 25 and other scriptures, this message explores practical ways we can participate with the persecuted church: protecting them, praying for them, giving to support the work of the gospel, and identifying with them as partners in Christ. As we hear stories of faith and perseverance, we’re invited to consider how God might call us to stand with and support our brothers and sisters around the world.

What does it really mean to follow Jesus when faith isn’t convenient? In this message, Pastor Bart launches the Relentless series by reminding us that the global Church is one body and when believers suffer anywhere, it matters everywhere. Drawing from Jesus’ words in Matthew 5, we’re challenged to see that persecution is not a failure of faith, but often a sign of faithful living. Following Jesus creates friction, blessing doesn’t always mean comfort, and pressure often comes before persecution. Yet Jesus invites His followers to choose joy, stand firm, and live with conviction rather than comfort. This message calls us to pray with persecuted believers, participate in God’s mission, stay aware, and commit to the way of Jesus even when it costs.

Jesus’ words in Matthew 5:38–48 challenge our natural response to fight back when we are hurt or wronged. He calls us to a different way of living, one that does not mirror the anger, division, and retaliation of the world. Loving our enemies is not about feelings or weakness, and it does not mean enabling harm. It is a choice to refuse bitterness and to stop letting other people control our hearts.When we pray for those who hurt us, we release them from our grip and place them in God’s hands. This is how we reclaim freedom, reflect the heart of the Father, and live the life that truly flourishes.

In this message, Pastor Bart challenges the idea that outward religious activity automatically leads to spiritual transformation. Using Jesus’ encounters with the Pharisees in Mark 2–3, we see how easy it is to confuse routines, traditions, and rule-keeping with a real relationship with God.Jesus reveals that empty religion can actually weigh us down, while true life with Him brings freedom, joy, and renewal. Rather than adding Jesus onto old patterns, He invites us into a new way of living marked by grace, compassion, and closeness with the Father. This message calls us to move from simply doing spiritual things to genuinely walking with Jesus in a living relationship that leads to true flourishing.

Note: Due to a technical issue, the audio is missing at the start of this video. The sound returns shortly. We appreciate your understanding.In this message from the Flourish series, Pastor Bart unpacks Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 5 about anger and relationships. He explains that Jesus is not just warning against murder, but exposing the deeper “root” of simmering contempt that can damage homes and relationships long before anything explodes. The call is to take the keys back from anger, pursue reconciliation quickly, and practice humility by making things right when you have wronged someone.

In this message, Pastor Bart launches the Flourish: Living the Way of Jesus series by unpacking Jesus’ words in Matthew 6. Jesus warns against turning spiritual practices into performances and invites us to examine the why behind what we do.Through the Sermon on the Mount, we see two foundations for life: one built on sand that collapses under pressure, and one built on the solid rock of Jesus’ teaching. The difference is not activity. It is authenticity.Jesus calls us to drop the mask, check our motives, and walk in a real, life giving relationship with the Father who sees everything. When we live for Him instead of human approval, we discover a faith that stands firm and truly flourishes.

Before we talk about what God asks of us, we must first remember who we are to Him. This message invites us to slow down and receive the truth that our identity comes before our activity. God’s love is not something we earn or maintain—it is something He initiates, pours out generously, and invites us to trust fully. As we walk through Scripture today, we’ll see that we are deeply and dearly loved, and that living from this love changes everything.

We are exploring the opening of John’s Gospel and meeting Jesus as the eternal Word who was with God and is God. John invites us to see that God does not remain distant or hidden, but reveals Himself through testimony, light, and relationship.As we walk through John 1:1–18, we will see that truly knowing God is not about gathering information, but about believing and receiving the Word. Those who receive Jesus are welcomed into God’s family as His children, born not by human effort but by God Himself.This passage sets the foundation for the entire Gospel, showing us a Father who gives life, draws near, and invites us to belong through grace and truth.

Have you ever wondered how God could use your messy family story for something beautiful? In this powerful Christmas message, Pastor Bart unveils the surprising truth behind Jesus's family tree—a lineage filled with outsiders, broken people, and complicated relationships. Through the stories of five remarkable women, we discover how God weaves grace through generations of imperfect lives, culminating in Jesus's birth. Whether you're feeling like an outsider or carrying family burdens, this message reveals how God's redemptive love makes room for everyone at His table. Don't miss this transformative reminder that your story, too, can be grafted into God's greater purpose.

This Christmas message invites us to look closely at Mary’s story and what it reveals about the heart of God. Pastor Bart reminds us that Mary was not chosen because she was impressive, prepared, or powerful, but because God’s grace rests on ordinary people who are willing to trust Him. Her life shows us that God’s favor is not earned through performance, but received as a gift.Mary’s simple response, “I am the Lord’s servant,” becomes a model for how we respond to God’s grace today. Even when the path ahead feels uncertain, costly, or unclear, trust opens the door for God to work in extraordinary ways. This message encourages us to consider where God may be inviting us to trust Him more deeply and to remember that His grace meets us right where we are.

This past week, Pastor Bart continued our Christmas series Family Tree by showing that Jesus came from a family line marked by real people and real mess. Matthew’s genealogy is not a polished list of heroes. Instead, it intentionally includes women with complicated stories, highlighting that God does not hide brokenness. He works through it. These names remind us that Jesus did not come from a perfect family, but from one filled with pain, scandal, and grace.Pastor Bart reminded us that this reveals the heart of our Savior. Jesus moves toward the overlooked, seeks out the outsider, and cares deeply for the vulnerable. Our past does not disqualify us from God’s purposes. It becomes the place where His mercy is most clearly seen. The Messiah who came through a messy family came to redeem messy lives, and He invites each of us to find our place in His family tree.

Pastor Bart continues the Family Tree series by showing how Matthew’s genealogy points to Jesus as the Son of David, the promised King Israel waited for. God made a covenant with David that one of his descendants would reign forever. Even when the kingdom fell and hope seemed gone, the prophets pointed toward a coming King who would restore what was broken. Matthew announces that Jesus is that King.Jesus is our Shepherd King who leads and cares for His people, our Warrior King who defeated sin and death through the cross, and our Returning King who will one day make all things new. This week we are invited to trust His leadership, rest in His protection, and surrender what we try to control.

This week, Pastor Bart opened our Christmas series Family Tree by showing why Matthew begins the story of Jesus not with angels or a manger, but with a genealogy. For first-century Jews, this wasn’t boring credits — it was the announcement that God had kept His promise. By calling Jesus the Son of Abraham, Matthew points all the way back to God’s covenant in Genesis 12, where He promised to bless the world through Abraham’s family.Jesus is the fulfillment of that promise. He is God’s blessing in human form — bringing forgiveness, purpose, and hope even in a broken world. And just like Abraham, we’re blessed so we can be a blessing to others. This Christmas, we’re invited to trust God, step out in faith, and help others encounter the One who came for all people.

Pastor Dustin explained that gratitude is far more than a feeling or a seasonal practice—it’s a way of life that has the power to reshape how we see everything. When we fix our attention on what God has given us, complaining becomes harder and our hearts begin to shift. The 25 Days of Gratitude Challenge was designed not as a short-term exercise, but as a catalyst for lasting transformation. Changing our patterns is difficult, but it’s essential if we want to live in the fullness God intends.Just as understanding flight changes the way we see airplanes, encountering Christ changes the way we see our entire lives. Paul experienced this firsthand. Once a Pharisee who valued status and outward achievement, his meeting with Jesus completely reframed his perspective. Writing to a culture obsessed with honor and appearance, Paul reminded the church in Corinth—and us—that Christ came in humility and suffering, not worldly glory.Before Christ, we tend to see our time, talents, and treasures as ours alone. But in Christ, everything becomes a gift to steward. Our time is entrusted to us, our abilities are on loan from God, and our resources become tools for His kingdom. Stories from people in our own church, like Roger and Jason, show how talents and resources can be used to serve others and give glory to God.This matters because we are called to be Christ’s ambassadors—people who carry His message to a world longing for hope. We don’t save anyone; only Christ does. But we are invited to stand in the gap, pointing others back to Him. Generosity, then, isn’t simply an obligation. It’s a privilege and a sign of spiritual maturity.For believers, the invitation is to open our hands and grow in generosity and sanctification. And for those who don’t yet know Christ, the call is to stop searching for peace and belonging apart from Him, and find it in the One who became sin for us so that we might be made right with God.[00:00] - Welcome[00:24] - The Challenge of Gratitude[01:23] - Changing Patterns and Life Transitions[02:22] - Questions About Flight and Learning[03:58] - Discovering How Things Really Work[05:42] - Paul’s Transformation and the Gospel[07:17] - How to Read and Understand Scripture[09:00] - Paul’s Background and Hypocrisy[11:04] - Corinth: Wealth, Honor, and Culture[12:20] - False Teachers and True Apostleship[13:44] - The Way Things Were: Old Perspective[16:24] - The Way Things Are Now: New Life[18:54] - Stories of Stewardship in the Church[22:36] - Treasures and Generosity[23:25] - Why the Change Matters[24:00] - Ambassadors of Reconciliation[27:06] - The Bobsled Analogy: God’s Equipping[32:39] - Challenges for Believers[35:56] - Invitation to Non-Believers[39:29] - Prayer, Response, and Generosity Opportunity[40:47] - Closing and Sending Forth

We all have names that, when mentioned, stir up old wounds and unresolved tension within us. These names are attached to stories—stories of offense, betrayal, or deep hurt. If we don’t learn how to move forward, these wounds can imprison us, affecting our present relationships and even our walk with God. The story of Louis Zamperini, a man who endured unimaginable suffering as a prisoner of war and then found himself trapped in bitterness and hatred, powerfully illustrates the destructive power of unforgiveness. His journey to freedom began not when his circumstances changed, but when he encountered the grace and forgiveness of Jesus Christ. Only then was he able to forgive those who had wronged him, and in doing so, he found true freedom.Forgiveness is not natural; it is supernatural. Our instinct is to seek justice, to make others pay for what they’ve done. But the gospel flips the script. Jesus teaches us that the forgiveness we receive from God is meant to flow outward to others. This is not a suggestion but a command for those who follow Christ. Paul, writing from prison, reminds us in Ephesians that our identity as forgiven people should shape the way we relate to others. We are called to “get rid of all bitterness” and to forgive “just as God through Christ has forgiven you.” This is not about minimizing the pain or pretending the offense didn’t happen. Rather, it’s about recognizing the depth of our own need for forgiveness and the immense cost Jesus paid to cancel our debt.Forgiveness is not forgetting, excusing, or instantly restoring trust. It is not the same as reconciliation, nor does it remove consequences. Forgiveness is a decision—a choice to release the right to collect a debt that is genuinely owed. Sometimes, this is a process that must be repeated as old wounds resurface. At times, wisdom calls us to overlook minor offenses; at other times, we must have hard conversations, always with humility and a desire for restoration, not vindication.Ultimately, forgiveness is about freedom—freedom for the one who forgives. Jesus endured the cross, absorbing the cost of our sin, so that we could be set free. As we grasp the depth of what we’ve been forgiven, we are empowered by the Holy Spirit to extend that same grace to others. This is the path to healthy relationships, spiritual maturity, and true freedom in Christ.Youtube Chapters[00:00] - Welcome[01:30] - The Story of Louis Zamperini[04:54] - Encountering the Gospel and Forgiveness[08:04] - The Challenge of Forgiving the Unrepentant[10:31] - Forgiveness Does Not Erase the Past[13:10] - Jesus’ Teaching on Forgiveness[14:40] - Forgiven People Become Forgiving People[18:05] - Paul’s Letter to the Ephesians: Context[20:21] - Grieving the Holy Spirit with Bitterness[23:48] - Taking Out the Trash: Removing Bitterness[25:15] - Kindness, Compassion, and Forgiveness[28:17] - The Vertical and Horizontal Dimensions of Forgiveness[33:30] - The Cost of Our Forgiveness[35:47] - Jesus’ Suffering and the Depth of Our Need[42:30] - What Forgiveness Is (and Isn’t)[48:41] - Boundaries, Consequences, and Reconciliation[51:18] - Forgiveness Is Not a Feeling or Contingent on Apology[56:26] - Overlooking Offenses and When to Confront[59:58] - The Freedom of Forgiveness and Invitation to Respond[62:42] - Closing Prayer and BlessingSermon Notes:https://www.bible.com/events/49521262

As we continue our journey through Ephesians, we were reminded that the gospel not only saves us—it reshapes every part of our lives, including our closest relationships. We began by honoring our veterans, recognizing their example of selfless service, which reflects the sacrificial love of Christ. As we move forward in our 25 Days of Gratitude, we are invited to keep practicing thankfulness each day: memorizing Scripture, recording daily blessings, and sharing encouragement with others. Gratitude is not seasonal—it’s a discipline that helps reorient our hearts away from grumbling and toward the goodness of God.Paul’s words in Ephesians show us that transformation begins with identity. Before we are called to live differently, we are reminded of who we are in Christ—loved, redeemed, chosen, and secure by grace. From that foundation, the gospel shapes how we treat one another. In a culture built on power and self-interest, Paul calls us instead to mutual submission out of reverence for Christ. This isn’t about hierarchy or superiority, but about a “you first” posture formed in the way of Jesus. In marriage, this looks like sacrificial love, respect, and partnership—not domination or passivity, but a shared calling to reflect Christ’s character.This message also recognized the real struggles many face in marriage and family—hurt, disappointment, and the longing for renewal. The gospel does not shame the hurting; it seeks to heal and restore. Whether single, married, widowed, or somewhere in between, we are all invited to look to the love of Jesus as our truest source of identity and strength. When we are filled with His love, we are freed to love others well. In every relationship, big or small, our calling is the same: to imitate Jesus, who gave Himself for us, so that His love may overflow from our lives into the world around us.[00:00] - Welcome[00:07] - Honoring Veterans and Service[00:30] - 25 Days of Gratitude Introduction[01:15] - Memorizing and Living 1 Thessalonians 5[02:05] - Practicing Daily Thankfulness[03:05] - Sharing Gratitude with Others[04:03] - A Personal Story of Young Love[06:02] - Lessons from Relationship Struggles[09:35] - The Gospel’s Role in Marriage[13:23] - Ephesians: Gospel Identity and Behavior[17:16] - Living a Life Worthy of the Gospel[20:21] - Mutual Submission in Relationships[23:07] - From “Me First” to “You First”[25:02] - The Meaning of Submission (Hupotazo)[34:16] - Spirit-Filled Marriages: Husbands and Wives[42:30] - Headship: Cross, Not Crown[46:16] - The Call to Respect and Support[50:58] - Husbands: Love as Christ Loved[56:20] - Practical Takeaways for Marriage[61:31] - Only Christ Completes Us[62:42] - Invitation to Trust Jesus and Closing PrayerBeyond Sunday Devotional: https://eaglesview.church/devotionalBible App Notes: https://www.bible.com/events/49517054

As we enter this season leading up to Thanksgiving, Pastor Bart invites us into a journey of intentional gratitude—25 days of cultivating a thankful heart. Gratitude is not something that comes naturally to us; it’s a spiritual discipline, a choice we make daily, especially when life is hard. Paul’s words in 1 Thessalonians remind us to “be thankful in all circumstances,” not for all circumstances, but in them. This is God’s will for us in Christ Jesus. Over these next weeks, we invite you to memorize this truth together, practice daily thanksgiving, and share our gratitude with others, both in our homes and as a church family.But gratitude is not just a seasonal exercise; it’s a way of living that transforms how we walk through suffering. We live in a world that is groaning—creation itself is frustrated, our bodies break down, and pain is a reality for all of us. Paul, writing to the suffering believers in Rome, uses the metaphor of childbirth: pain and groaning are real, but they point to a coming joy. The gospel doesn’t promise a pain-free life; in fact, following Jesus often brings its own cost. Yet, the gospel gives us a new perspective on pain. We are not just waiting for heaven as disembodied spirits; we are promised a future of resurrection, new bodies, and a restored creation. This hope is not just for someday, but it shapes how we endure today.In the meantime, we are not left alone. The Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness, intercedes for us when we don’t have words, and walks with us through every groan and sigh. God is at work, even in the mess, redeeming and orchestrating all things for our good—not just for our comfort, but to conform us to the image of Jesus. We have a choice in our suffering: to become bitter or to be transformed into grateful, hope-filled people. Communion is our reminder that even Jesus, facing betrayal and suffering, gave thanks. So, whatever you’re facing, choose gratitude. Trust that God is with you, that your pain is not wasted, and that a day is coming when all things will be made new.Youtube Chapters[00:00] - Welcome[01:57] - The Call to Gratitude: 1 Thessalonians[03:56] - Memorizing Scripture Together[05:25] - Practicing Intentional Gratitude[07:29] - Sharing Gratitude with Others[09:05] - The Gospel and Transformation[10:11] - Childbirth as a Metaphor for Suffering[14:45] - Suffering in the Early Church[19:18] - The Gospel’s Impact on Everyday Life[21:45] - Heirs with Christ: Suffering and Glory[24:18] - Wrestling with Pain as God’s Children[37:08] - Creation’s Groaning and Future Hope[42:21] - The Promise of New Bodies[52:11] - The Holy Spirit’s Help in Weakness[56:20] - God’s Good Purposes in Our Pain[59:01] - Communion: Giving Thanks in Suffering[62:52] - Closing Prayer and Worship

What a joy it is to witness lives transformed by Christ, as we saw in last week’s baptisms. There’s nothing quite like seeing someone profess faith and begin a new journey with Jesus. But as we walk this gospel-centered life, we must be aware of the saboteurs that threaten our faith. Often, we look outward—at the world, the flesh, or the devil—but the greatest saboteur is often the person staring back at us in the mirror. We sabotage our own faith when we add anything to Christ, rely on our religious resume, or allow our past to define us.Paul’s words in Philippians 3 challenge us to examine what we truly value. He counted all his achievements, heritage, and religious credentials as garbage compared to the infinite value of knowing Christ. The language he uses is intentionally strong—everything else is not just less important, but utterly worthless, like refuse, when compared to Jesus. This is a call to radical reorientation: to let go of anything we think commends us to God, and to cling to Christ alone.There are those who would try to add requirements to the gospel—Christ plus baptism, Christ plus tongues, Christ plus church attendance or giving. Paul calls these “dogs,” not as a term of endearment, but as a warning against those who would mutilate the gospel and burden believers with legalism. Salvation is not Christ plus anything; it is Christ alone. Even our best efforts, our spiritual resumes, and our good deeds cannot earn us favor with God. They are, as Isaiah says, like filthy rags.But perhaps you don’t struggle with legalism or spiritual pride. Maybe your saboteur is your past—shame, regret, or a sense of unworthiness. Paul, who persecuted the church and carried deep scars from his past, reminds us that God’s love is greater than our failures. The call is to forget what is behind and press on toward what lies ahead, knowing that our citizenship is in heaven, secured by Christ alone. Our past is not a barrier; it is garbage, discarded in light of the resurrection power of Jesus.In the end, our only passport to heaven is Jesus. Everything else—our achievements, our failures, our attempts to add to the gospel—is worthless. Let go of the garbage, and hold fast to Christ, who alone is of infinite value.Youtube Chapters[00:00] - Welcome[01:07] - Celebrating Baptisms and New Life[01:57] - The Saboteurs of Faith: An Introduction[03:26] - A Story of Sabotaged Projects[06:16] - Who Really Sabotages Our Faith?[07:06] - The Parable of the Soils: The Role of the Heart[09:17] - What Do We Value? Paul’s Radical Reassessment[13:36] - Christ Plus Anything: The Danger of Legalism[16:21] - The Story of Philippi: Paul’s Deep Connection[21:11] - Watch Out for the “Dogs”: False Teachers and Legalists[32:02] - The Trap of Our Religious Resume[40:16] - The Futility of Good Deeds Without Christ[44:10] - The Problem of Our Past[50:14] - Two Sides of Pride[51:33] - Our True Citizenship: Home is Where Jesus Is[54:32] - The Infinite Value of Christ Alone[55:06] - Closing Prayer and InvitationBeyond Sunday Devotional: https://eaglesview.church/devotionalSunday Sermon Notes: https://www.bible.com/events/49509872

Today, we gathered to reflect on what it truly means to be God’s masterpiece. We began by celebrating the ways God is moving among us—through the recent Fields of Faith event, where many students made decisions for Christ, and through the baptisms happening today. These are living reminders that God is still in the business of transforming lives.We explored the idea of a masterpiece, not just in the context of art or music, but as a metaphor for our own lives. Just as a great work of art is crafted with intention, care, and purpose, so too are we—each of us uniquely shaped by God. The Apostle Paul, writing to the Ephesians, used the word “poema” to describe us: God’s workmanship, His handiwork, His masterpiece. This is not a title we earn, but an identity we receive through Christ.But before we can appreciate the beauty of this truth, we must first understand the depth of our need. Paul doesn’t start by telling us we’re masterpieces; he begins by reminding us of our former condition—spiritually dead, trapped in sin, and under God’s just wrath. This is not easy to hear, but it’s essential. We were not just in need of a little help; we were utterly helpless, unable to save ourselves. Only when we grasp the seriousness of our separation from God can we begin to comprehend the magnitude of His grace.Then comes the turning point: “But God.” In His rich mercy and great love, God intervened. He made us alive with Christ, not because of anything we did, but purely by His grace. Salvation is a gift, not a reward for good behavior. Our good works do not earn us God’s favor; rather, they flow out of the new life He has given us. We are saved by grace, through faith, for good works that God prepared in advance for us to do.This truth is meant to reawaken our gratitude, reignite our love for God, and ground us in our identity. Whether you are exploring faith for the first time, feeling spiritually dry, or walking closely with Jesus, the invitation is the same: receive God’s grace, remember who you are in Christ, and live out your purpose as His masterpiece.Youtube Chapters[00:00] - Welcome[01:00] - Holy Land Trip Invitation[02:28] - Fields of Faith Celebration[05:29] - What Is a Masterpiece?[07:18] - Art, Identity, and Transformation[09:31] - Ephesians 2: Context and Background[12:57] - The Culture of Ephesus and Paul’s Message[14:22] - You Are Not an Accident[16:06] - Why We Need to Revisit the Gospel[18:35] - The Bad News: Our Condition Before Christ[27:15] - Dead, Trapped, and in Trouble[36:38] - Understanding God’s Wrath[42:35] - The Depths of Grace: Amazing Grace[47:40] - The Turning Point: But God[52:37] - Salvation by Grace Through Faith[57:09] - Living as God’s Masterpiece[58:05] - Testimony: Kristina’s Story[64:21] - Closing Reflections and Prayer

Today’s focus is on the profound truth of transformation through the gospel of Jesus Christ. Many of us spend our lives climbing ladders—whether in sports, academics, finances, or even spirituality—constantly measuring ourselves against others and wondering if we “measure up.” Yet, when it comes to our relationship with God, the standard is not just being “good” but perfect goodness, the kind embodied by Jesus Himself. If we’re honest, none of us can reach that standard on our own. We all fall short, no matter how hard we try, and our efforts—whether through morality, religious activity, or comparison—cannot bridge the gap between us and God.But the good news is that God, in His love and mercy, did not leave us to climb the ladder alone. Instead, Jesus, who was perfect and sinless, descended to meet us in our brokenness. He lived the life we could not live and died the death we deserved, taking our place. This is the “Great Exchange”—our guilt transferred to Jesus, and His righteousness transferred to us. When we put our faith in Christ, God sees us not in our failures, but clothed in the perfection of Jesus. This is not something we earn; it is a gift of grace, received by faith.This truth is not just theological; it is deeply personal and transformative. For those who are new to faith, or even just exploring, know that God’s love is for you, and He invites you into His family. For those who have followed Jesus for years but feel distant or cold, let this truth reawaken your heart. The gospel is not about striving harder but about surrendering to the love and grace of God, allowing Him to transform us from the inside out. As we receive this grace, it overflows into every area of our lives—our families, our work, our relationships—bringing true and lasting change.⁠Youtube Chapters[00:00] - Welcome[00:12] - Revival Among the Younger Generation[01:07] - Fields of Faith Community Event[02:27] - Supporting Young Leaders: Austin’s Story[03:11] - The Ladder of Comparison[05:04] - Lessons from Athletic Competition[10:11] - Measuring Up: The Spiritual Ladder[14:40] - Two Audiences: Newcomers and Longtime Believers[18:08] - Drifting from Our First Love[20:44] - The Ladder and Our Inability[21:20] - Jesus’ Standard: Love God and Neighbor[25:17] - The Struggle with Sin and Self-Centeredness[28:54] - How Good is Good Enough?[29:30] - Paul’s Diagnosis: No One is Righteous[32:15] - We All Fall Short[34:23] - The Gospel: Jesus Meets Us in Our Mess[35:22] - The Great Exchange: Someone Took My Place[38:10] - Peter’s Testimony: Brought Safely Home[39:29] - The Transfer: Guilt to Jesus, Righteousness to Us[43:23] - Justification: Declared Righteous[45:13] - Ephesians: From Death to Life[47:08] - The “But God” Moment[49:55] - Salvation by Grace Through Faith[52:27] - Transformation: Overflowing Grace[55:30] - The Invitation: Will You Receive Jesus?[58:11] - Closing Prayer and ResponseBible App Notes: https://www.bible.com/events/49503220Beyond Sunday Devotional: https://eaglesview.church/devotional

Today, we explored what it truly means to stand firm in the spiritual battles we face as followers of Jesus. Drawing from the imagery of the Battle of the Bulge in World War II, we recognized that, like those soldiers, we are often caught off guard, facing not just one enemy but multiple adversaries: Satan, our own flesh, and the world’s system that opposes God. Yet, the victory is not something we strive to achieve—it has already been won by Jesus through His death and resurrection. Our calling is not to fight for victory, but to stand firm in the victory Christ has secured for us.We looked at the context of the Ephesian church, a community surrounded by spiritual opposition and false teaching, and saw how Paul, even from prison, urged them to be strong in the Lord and to put on the full armor of God. This armor is not our own; it is God’s, and it is both a gift and a command to take up daily. The battle is not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual forces, and so our preparation must be spiritual as well.The armor begins and ends with truth—God’s Word is the foundation and the weapon. We must saturate ourselves in Scripture, not just for knowledge, but so that we can recognize and refute the enemy’s lies. The breastplate of righteousness reminds us that our right standing with God is a gift, not something we earn, and it guards our hearts against accusation and condemnation. The shoes of the gospel of peace give us stability, reminding us daily of the peace we have with God and the call to bring that peace to others. The shield of faith is not just for individual defense but is most effective in community, as we stand together, supporting one another. Finally, the helmet of salvation protects our minds from despair and doubt, anchoring us in the finished work of Christ.We are not left ill-equipped. God has given us everything we need to stand firm, but we must intentionally put on this armor each day, remembering who we are in Christ, and living out that identity in the power of the Holy Spirit.Youtube Chapters[00:00] - Welcome[00:09] - Series Recap and Introduction[01:11] - The Battle of the Bulge: A Picture of Standing Firm[03:14] - The Surprise Attack and Holding the Line[05:21] - Spiritual Warfare: Our Real Enemies[07:51] - Standing in Christ’s Victory[10:35] - The Spiritual Climate in Ephesus[12:49] - The Sons of Sceva: Authority in Christ[15:03] - Relationship vs. Religion[19:00] - The Armor of God: God’s Equipment, Not Ours[23:41] - Strength Through Surrender[25:13] - Dressing for Battle Daily[28:21] - The Best Equipment: Roman Armor and Spiritual Armor[30:38] - The Belt of Truth: Girding Up for Battle[34:53] - The Sword of the Spirit: Bookending with God’s Word[39:39] - The Breastplate of Righteousness: Guarding the Heart[48:15] - Shoes of Peace: Standing Firm in the Gospel[53:35] - The Shield of Faith: Community and Formation[57:48] - The Helmet of Salvation and Communion[63:23] - Worship and Communion as Spiritual Warfare