HOTLCAST

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of HOTL's Got Questions, Cyle, Matt, and Ryan tackle one of the most asked — and most avoided — questions in the church today: What does the Bible say about sex before marriage? The answer may be more straightforward than you think. Walking through scripture from 1 Corinthians to Hebrews to the Song of Songs, the guys break down why God's design for sex is reserved for marriage — and why that boundary is a feature, not a flaw. They explore the cultural shift that has monetized and casualized sex, the real-world damage of sexual immorality, and how sex within marriage is actually a form of worship. They also tackle tough real-life scenarios — widows, divorce, legal vs. religious marriage — with honesty and grace. Whether you're young, old, single, or married, this conversation is a reminder that God's plan for sex isn't about restriction — it's about protection, purpose, and beauty.

Send us Fan MailRyan and Mark are back from youth retreat with 41 kids, kickball wars, and splash pad chaos. The crew unpacks the weekend's vision sermon on "going the extra mile" — what it means to stop asking "what's the least I can do?" and start giving maximum effort for Jesus. Mark coins the term "cruise control Christian," Matt reminds us the second mile is where the real growth happens, and everyone agrees: it's not the pastor's job to reach lost people — it's ours. Tune in for retreat stories, honest conviction, and a challenge to get off cruise control and back in the game.

Send us Fan MailPastor Cyle delivers a passionate message at Heart o' the Lakes Church unpacking the church's "Vision 330" — rooted in John 3:30, "He must increase, I must decrease." Drawing from Jesus' Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:41), he challenges the modern church's tendency toward "minimum effort Christianity" and calls believers to go the extra mile in every area of life: relationships, service, generosity, and witness. The sermon explores what an "extra mile church" looks like — one that notices the person standing alone, serves when no one's watching, gives beyond what won't be missed, chooses people over preferences, makes room for the next generation, and invites one more person to know Jesus. Pastor Cyle reframes the Christian life from "I have to" to "I get to," reminding the church that the first mile is what's required, but the second mile is chosen — and it's in that second mile that people see Jesus.

Send us Fan MailWhen is the last time you got upset over something at church — and was it actually worth getting upset about? In this episode of the HOTLCast, Cyle, Ryan, Matt, and Mark unpack the crucial difference between preferences, convictions, and biblical imperatives. From a church member who left over colored Christmas lights to complaints about sandals on stage, the crew shares real-life stories of how easily we confuse what we like with what God actually said. Along the way, Matt gives an update on his recent car accident (his third totaled car since moving to Michigan), Cyle reveals his new stress-management strategy courtesy of Dolly Parton, and the team discusses how to know where to draw the line when Scripture speaks and when it's silent. The bottom line: the only hill worth dying on is the one with a cross.

Send us Fan MailIn part two of the "Spiritual Mutts" series, Pastor Cyle explores what it means to be "dogmatic" as a Christian — and why being dogmatic about the wrong things causes so much damage in the church. Using his Weimaraner Trevie as a humorous and relatable illustration, he breaks down three critical categories every believer needs to understand:Imperatives — Biblical truths God has clearly commanded (love God, love others, forgive, flee immorality). These we hold tightly.Convictions — How the Holy Spirit personally applies those imperatives in our individual lives (drinking, entertainment, speech, Sabbath). These we hold faithfully, recognizing they may differ from person to person.Preferences — What we simply like (worship style, dress, pews vs. chairs, technology). These we hold loosely.Drawing from 2 Timothy 3, Romans 14, 1 Corinthians 10, and the United Brethren tradition of "in essentials unity, in non-essentials liberty, in all things charity," Pastor Cyle challenges the church to stop barking about preferences and start standing firm on what Scripture actually says. The result? Unity without uniformity — loving each other well while being dogmatic only where God is clear.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the HOTLCast, Pastors Matt and Ryan are joined by Carver and Mark to unpack the idea of being a "spiritual mutt" — someone whose faith has been shaped by multiple church backgrounds and denominations. Drawing from a sermon by Pastor Cyle, the team shares their own diverse church experiences, from Baptist and Episcopal to Fellowship of Grace Brethren churches, and discusses how each tradition contributed to their spiritual formation. They explore the United Brethren motto of "In essentials, unity; in non-essentials, liberty; and in all things, charity," and break down the difference between convictions, traditions, and preferences in church life. The conversation challenges listeners to examine what they're holding onto too tightly and to embrace change as a natural — and necessary — part of ministry and growing in faith.

Send us Fan MailIn the opening message of the "Spiritual Mutts" series, Pastor Cyle uses the analogy of dog breeds—purebreds, designer dogs, and mutts—to explore how Christians engage with denominational traditions. Drawing from his own diverse church background (Pentecostal, Nazarene, Baptist, non-denominational, and more), he argues that believers who draw strengths from multiple traditions develop "spiritual vigor"—the theological equivalent of a mutt's hybrid vigor. He highlights what each tradition contributes: Baptists' love for the Word, Pentecostals' expectation of the Spirit, Wesleyans' call to holiness, the Reformed emphasis on God's sovereignty, and liturgical traditions' historical continuity. But he also warns against "selective theology"—the tendency to keep the parts of Scripture we like and discard the parts that challenge us. Citing 1 Corinthians 1, 2 Timothy 4, 1 Thessalonians 5, and Acts 17, the message calls the church to test everything against Scripture, submit to the whole counsel of God, and resist the temptation to create a customized Christianity that suits our own passions. The sermon closes with a pastoral challenge to let God's Word shape our character, forsake sin, and live out an authentic faith in community.

Send us Fan MailThis week on the HOTLCast, Matt, Cody, Ryan, and Mark gather to unpack Sunday's message about choosing God's plan — and what that actually looks like in everyday life. They start by celebrating Next Gen Level Up Sunday and the heart behind investing in kids and students at every phase. Then the conversation shifts to David's unashamed worship, the connection between joy and fun, and a memorable reminder from Cyle: "If you don't think church should be fun, you're going to hate heaven."The guys get real about the daily practice of choosing joy over stress, separating emotions from decisions, and what it means to be a "recovering pessimist." Ryan shares his approach to choosing peace when life gets hard, Matt talks about shifting from "the glass is half empty" to "the glass just isn't full," and Cody reflects on looking back at everything God has already done as the best antidote to worry. Along the way they discuss grace, learning from failure, and the question that ties it all together: How can you let God interrupt your plans today?

Send us Fan MailOn Level Up Sunday, Pastor Cyle celebrates students advancing to the next grade and shares how God is moving in the next generation through baptisms and youth ministry. Drawing from the story of David bringing the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem, the message explores how good intentions can never replace God's directions — and how obedience must come before worship. When David chose God's way over his own, the result was joyful, uninhibited celebration. The sermon challenges us to care more about God's approval than people's opinions, to stop asking God to follow our plan and instead follow His, and to trust that the One who knows the whole plan is worth following — even when it looks foolish to the world. God's plan is simple: know Him and make Him known.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the HOTLCast, Matt, Pastor Ryan, Cyle, and Mark wrap up their Hollywood series with a look at Project Hail Mary — the story of a discredited scientist thrust into saving the universe from extinction. Beneath the sci-fi, they find a story about hope and friendship, and use it to dig into what biblical hope really means.They unpack the difference between hope and optimism: optimism relies on circumstances going your way, while hope holds onto God's goodness no matter what. The conversation touches on despair, the slide from "realist" into pessimism, and why fixing your eyes on eternity changes how you face hard seasons.They also look at Paul, who wrote some of his most joyful letters from prison — proof that hope isn't about good odds, but about a relationship with a living God who is good all the time.

Send us Fan MailIn this closing message of the Hollywood series, the sermon uses the film Project Hail Mary to explore the nature of biblical hope — distinguishing it from good odds and optimism. Through the story of an astronaut throwing a Hail Mary across the universe, and the biblical account of Abraham and Sarah, the message challenges listeners to stop quietly giving up and start hoping again. It emphasizes that real hope is rooted not in circumstances changing, but in a God who never changes — and that hope is ultimately a person: Jesus Christ.

Send us Fan MailPastor Matt, Cyle, and Carver sit down to talk about one of the most fundamental parts of life — family. Inspired by the Mandalorian: Grogu & Dust Bunny film and the church's current "Hollywood" series, the conversation goes deep on what it truly means to be family. From chosen relationships and church community to the sacrifices of ministry life, the guys share personal stories, laugh a lot, and remind listeners that real family is built through intentional time, loyalty, and showing up for each other. Plus, hear about all the ways you can find your people at Heart of Lakes Church.

Send us Fan MailWhat does a Mandalorian, Baby Yoda, and Jabba the Hutt's son have to do with your faith? More than you might think. In this message from our HOTLwood series, Pastor Matt Plott uses The Mandalorian & Grogu to unpack one of the most universal human needs — the need to belong. Whether your family has been a source of strength or a source of pain, this message is for you. We'll explore what it really means to find your people, why choosing the wrong circle can lead you further into bondage, and how a real friend — and a real church — will love you too much to leave you where you are.Scriptures referenced: Proverbs 18:24, Hebrews 12:14-15, Ruth 1:16-18Heart o' the Lakes Church

Send us Fan MailWhat do He-Man, the Sons of Sceva, and a plastic sword have in common? More than you'd think.In this message, Pastor Cyle from Heart o' the Lakes Church digs into one of the most overlooked passages in the book of Acts — the story of the seven sons of Sceva — to expose a danger hiding in plain sight inside the church: counterfeit faith.Using the iconic 80s cartoon He-Man as a launching point, Pastor Cyle explores why simply having the sword of power isn't enough. Just like Adam had to become the person worthy of the sword, we can't access God's real power by imitating someone else's faith, repeating churchy language, or checking religious boxes. Real power — the kind that transforms families, carries you through grief, and makes the enemy take notice — only comes through a genuine, personal relationship with Jesus Christ.Key scripture: Psalm 62:11-12 | Acts 19:11-16 | Matthew 7You'll walk away asking: "But who are you?" — and making sure you have an answer.

Send us Fan MailCyle, Ryan, and Mark tackle one of theology's more provocative questions: Did Jesus actually descend into Hell between His death and resurrection? The guys unpack where this idea comes from — including the Apostles' Creed — and dig into the often-misunderstood biblical concepts of Sheol, Hades, Abraham's bosom, and the lake of fire. Spoiler: the answer is more nuanced (and more fascinating) than most people think. Tune in for a lively conversation about the invisible realm, the complexity of the afterlife, and why your understanding of heaven and hell might be more influenced by movies than Scripture.

Send us Fan MailThis week on HOTLCast, Pastor Matt, Ryan, Cody, Mark, Nick, and the crew dive deep into a conversation sparked by two very different "At the Movies" sermons — K-Pop Demon Hunters and Field of Dreams. Despite preaching at separate campuses with no coordination, both messages independently landed on the same passage: Genesis 3:1, where the serpent asks Eve, "Did God really say that?"From there, the conversation expands into a candid discussion about spiritual warfare — why the American church often avoids the topic, how Satan works through subtle deception rather than dramatic theatrics, and why knowing God's truth is the only way to identify a lie. Ryan shares frontline perspective from his work with Save a Warrior, the guys unpack the difference between avoiding hell and genuinely pursuing Christ, and they reflect on how movies — even controversial ones — can reveal deep biblical truth when viewed through the right lens.Whether you're a longtime believer or just starting out, this episode will challenge you to stop burying your head in the sand and start engaging with the harder, more honest conversations of faith.

Send us Fan MailIn this message, Pastor Cody uses the Netflix film K-Pop Demon Hunters as a jumping-off point to explore one of the most important—and often overlooked—truths of the Christian life: our greatest battles aren't against other people. Drawing from Ephesians 6:12, Genesis 3, and James 5:16, Pastor Cody unpacks how Satan works to twist God's truth, how shame keeps us isolated and in chains, and why confessing our struggles to a trusted, godly friend is one of the most powerful things we can do. If you've ever felt like you're fighting alone—or hiding something you're afraid to say out loud—this message is for you.

Send us Fan MailThe HOTLCast crew tackle one of the most common faith questions they receive: is drinking alcohol a sin? They dig into what the Bible actually says, from Old Testament passages celebrating wine to Jesus' own first miracle at the wedding in Cana, and unpack the key distinction Scripture draws between drinking and drunkenness.The conversation gets personal as Ryan shares his five years of sobriety, Matt reflects on the denomination's evolving standards, and the group discusses why alcohol — even if technically permissible — may not be beneficial for everyone. They also walk through the United Brethren Church's official position and what it means to be "mastered" by anything.Whether you're curious about what Christianity really teaches on this topic or wrestling with it personally, this episode offers an honest, grace-filled conversation grounded in scripture.

Send us Fan MailCyle, Ryan, and Mark record with a literal empty chair — two regulars are out — but it ends up being the perfect backdrop for this episode. They recap a landmark moment for their church: canceling regular Sunday services to gather 700 people (including visitors from as far as California, Virginia, and Pennsylvania) at a beach campground for an outdoor worship service under a big tent. Cyle shares the message he preached — "The Empty Chair" — a challenge to think about the lost people in your life and what you're doing to invite them in. Ryan shares his own story of being someone else's "empty chair" before he was invited to Heart of Lakes, and the guys get into the real, relational side of sharing faith without pressure or fear.

Send us Fan MailIn this powerful outdoor worship service at Somerset Beach Campground, Pastor Cyle brings together multiple churches and campuses for a united Sunday gathering under one tent. Preaching from Luke 14:23, Luke 19:10, and Matthew 9:37-38, Pastor Cyle challenges believers to look beyond their own filled seats and focus on the empty chair — the person in their life who hasn't yet met Jesus. With humor, honesty, and heartfelt conviction, he calls the church to move beyond membership and into mission: inviting the lost, serving their communities, using their God-given talents, and giving generously so that no chair stays empty. Whether at Somerset Beach, in your local church, or across the street from your home, the message is clear — someone is missing, and you have a role in reaching them.

Send us Fan MailOne of the most common questions skeptics ask about the Bible — and one that Christians sometimes struggle to answer. In this episode, we dig into Genesis to tackle the question head-on: If Adam and Eve were the first people, who exactly did Cain marry?We explore what Scripture actually says, the leading theories among Biblical scholars, the genetics behind why God later prohibited close-relative marriage in Leviticus, and why this question isn't as scandalous as it sounds when you understand the full context of creation — and even Noah's ark.Whether you're a longtime believer or just curious about the Bible, this is an honest, thoughtful conversation about a tough question of faith.

Send us Fan MailCyle, Ryan, Matt, and Mark, kick things off with a laugh about Mark's fading pink hair from a recent student challenge, then take a detour into the lost art of chain letters (and whether it's time to bring them back). Cyle shares his excitement over a Kickstarter board game called The Game Makers — a worker-placement game about building iconic board games — sparking a conversation about everyone's board game history and those early-morning sessions with cameraman Nick.The guys also preview the upcoming Pathfinder Camp (July 19–21), talking about the power of early faith experiences and the life change already happening among the 60+ students attending or serving at camp this summer.The main conversation digs into the Sunday message from the Hollywood series, centered on the Angel Studios film Solo Mio. The crew discusses how God's plan rarely looks like the one we mapped out — whether it's being deployed three days after 9/11, an unexpected pivot away from music education, a chance meeting at a funeral, or a calling to pastoral ministry felt on a bus. Drawing on Romans 8:28, Cyle encourages listeners that the unexpected moments — good and bad — are all working together toward something bigger.

Send us Fan MailLife doesn't always go according to plan — and that's okay. In this message, Pastor Cyle uses the movie Solo Mio as a jumping-off point to explore what happens when life's "altar moments" don't go the way we expected. From being stood up at the wedding to the stories of Joseph, Moses, Naomi, and the disciples, we see a pattern: God specializes in rewriting stories.Rooted in Romans 8:28 — "All things work together for good for those who love God" — this sermon challenges us to stop mourning the story we wanted and start trusting the story God is writing. Pain is never wasted when we let God transform it.Whether you're walking through heartbreak, loss, uncertainty, or disappointment, this message is for you.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the HOTLCast, Cyle, Cody, Ryan, and Mark reunite to recap Sunday's sermon from the Holla Woods series, inspired by the movie GOAT. The crew kicks things off with a lively debate about who deserves the Greatest of All Time title — from Michael Jordan and Lionel Messi to the Apostle Paul — before diving into the real heart of the message: dreaming big God's way.The guys explore what it looks like to stop building your own kingdom and start pursuing God's dream for your life, drawing from Ephesians 3 and the idea that God can do "more than we could ever think or ask." They tackle the "unlimited money" question as a spiritual gut-check, challenge the cultural myth that following Jesus means an easy, comfortable life, and talk about what it means to embrace delayed gratification in an instant-gratification world. The episode wraps with a simple but powerful daily practice: before your feet hit the floor, pray "Lord, interrupt my plans with yours today" — and mean it.Also: pink hair updates, Dinner With Friends testimonials, and hidden goats in a church projection.

Send us Fan MailWhat does a basketball-playing goat have to do with your life's purpose?In this week's message from our HOTLWOOD sermon series — where we find God's truth in the movies — we dive into the animated film Goat and discover that the biggest life isn't built by chasing your dreams. It's built by surrendering to God.Will the Goat wasn't supposed to be a roarball star. Nobody thought a goat could compete at that level. But he dared to dream big — and that's exactly what God asks of us. Ephesians 3:20 reminds us that God "is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think." Our dreams are small. His are not.In this sermon, we explore:Why getting what you want often leaves you miserable — and what to chase insteadHow God uses ordinary people(Joseph, Moses, David, Mary — and maybe you) for extraordinary purposesWhy fear is the #1 dream killer — and what God's Word says to do about itThe difference between building your kingdom and building HisA simple daily prayer that can completely change the direction of your lifeWhether you're holding tightly to your own plans or wondering if God has something more for you, this message is an invitation to trade your dream for something far greater.Challenge of the week: Before your feet hit the floor each morning, pray this: "Lord, interrupt my plans with Yours."--- Part of our HOTLWOOD summer series — finding God's truth in the movies.

Send us Fan MailIn this Father's Day message, Pastor Ryan — a Marine combat veteran and new pastor at Heart o' the Lakes Church — delivers a raw and personal sermon on the difference between being good and looking good. Drawing from his own years of brokenness after returning from Iraq, he unpacks how people develop "rackets" — heart-level strategies to manage their image and avoid vulnerability — as a substitute for real transformation. Using Matthew 23:27-28 (the "whitewashed tombs" passage), Proverbs 4:23, and Matthew 12, he challenges the congregation to identify where they're spending their energy on appearances rather than authentic connection with God and others. He closes with a call to yield to God, embrace vulnerability with a safe, godly person, and trust that true peace lives on the other side of "looking bad."

Send us Fan MailIn this week's HOTLCast, Pastor Matt is joined by Pastor Mark and Sarah — the Brooklyn Campus's new secretary — for a special introductory episode. They kick off with exciting campus updates, including major waterproofing work at the Jackson campus that's reclaiming thousands of square feet of basement space, and the nearly-complete restroom renovation at the Brooklyn campus. The conversation then shifts into a rich discussion on faith and the Philippians sermon series, exploring what it looks like to stay committed to Christ through every season of life — the mountaintops and the valleys. Together, they dig into how personal struggles become powerful tools for ministry, the importance of surrounding yourself with the right community, and why remembering "God is good" can anchor you even in the most chaotic moments. Plus, a preview of the upcoming "At the Movies" sermon series and Father's Day weekend events.

Send us Fan MailIn this sermon from Philippians 4, Pastor Cyle explores the biblical antidote to anxiety — a topic more relevant than ever in our screen-saturated, news-saturated world. Drawing on Paul's words written from prison, he unpacks three transformative truths: that joy is not the absence of problems but the presence of Christ; that peace is not the absence of storms but the presence of a Savior; and that contentment is not having more, but needing nothing more than Jesus. With humor, personal vulnerability — including the loss of his own daughter — and practical application, Pastor Cyle challenges the congregation to replace worry with prayer, guard their minds, and discover the freedom that comes from anchoring their souls in Christ rather than circumstances.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the HOTLCast, Pastor Matt sits down with Ryan and Carver to unpack the previous Sunday's sermon on treasure from the Book of Philippians. The conversation digs into what we truly value — from sentimental keepsakes to family and faith — and how the way we spend our time reveals what we actually treasure most. The guys also celebrate the transformative power of summer camp, sharing personal stories from both sides of the counselor/camper experience, and encourage families to get their students connected with Summerset Beach Campground (SBC) this summer. Whether you're wrestling with priorities or looking to pour into the next generation, this episode is a warm and honest conversation you won't want to miss. Find out more at hotlstrong.com

Send us Fan MailIn this message from Philippians 3, Pastor Cyle Young of Heart o' the Lakes Church asks a simple but piercing question: Are you knowing about Christ, or do you actually know Him? Using everything from a $4,000 board game to Michigan championship rings, Pastor Cyle unpacks Paul's radical declaration that all our earthly treasure is rubbish compared to knowing Jesus. He challenges us to stop coasting on a spiritual resume, get out of the parking lot, and press on toward the only prize that matters.Scripture: Philippians 3:7–20

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the HOTLCast, Cyle, Ryan, Matt, and Mark dig into Philippians 2 and the concept of the "mind of Christ" — what it really means to put others first in a culture that constantly tells us to put ourselves first. They get practical about what selfless living looks like day-to-day: guarding your time less, being intentional in your hobbies and communities, and using everything — card games, sports, work, even a Friday night at a game store — as an opportunity to serve and connect with people for the Kingdom.They also tackle the tension between rest and ministry, asking whether "balance" is even a Biblical concept, and how the way most of us rest (doom scrolling, binging Netflix) looks nothing like how Jesus rested. Honest, funny, and grounded in scripture — this one's a challenge to evaluate whose life you're actually living.Key Topics:The mind of Christ and selfless living (Philippians 2)Practical ways to put others first in everyday lifeUsing hobbies and interests as ministry opportunitiesThe myth of "balance" in ministryRest: Biblical vs. American cultureSelf-righteousness vs. others-focused faith

Send us Fan MailIn this message from Heart o' the Lakes Church, we dive into Philippians 2 and the countercultural concept of humility. In a world that constantly tells us to climb higher, earn more, and build our own brand, Jesus modeled a completely different path — going down the ladder to serve. Through Paul's words and the example of Christ, we explore what it truly means to have the "mind of Christ": valuing others above ourselves, choosing obedience over pride, and understanding that real greatness runs through servanthood. Packed with practical, everyday examples and honest self-reflection, this message challenges us to stop chasing the crown and start carrying the cross.

Send us Fan MailIs masturbation a sin? It's one of the most avoided questions in the church — but Cyle, Cody, and Ryan tackle it head-on on this episode of HOTLCast. They walk through what Scripture actually says about lust, self-control, and sexual immorality, and why the "lesser sin" argument doesn't hold up biblically. They also get real about the shame cycle many people are stuck in, share some surprising statistics about how widespread this struggle is in the church, and offer practical encouragement for anyone who wants to break free. If this is your struggle, you're not alone — and this episode is for you.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Cody, Ryan, and Mark talk about Cyle's new series through the book of Philippians — one of the most joyful letters in all of Scripture, written by Paul from prison. The guys explore the difference between joy and happiness, why gratitude is the birthplace of real joy, and what it looks like to choose peace in the middle of chaos. Plus, they celebrate Ryan's official ordination as pastor and share some powerful personal stories along the way. What are you going to focus on — the chains, or the joy?

Send us Fan Mail• In this message from Philippians 1, Pastor Cyle explores one of the most counterintuitive truths in Scripture: the gospel travels well in chains. Writing from house arrest in Rome, Paul didn't just survive hardship — he used it. The guards assigned to watch him heard the gospel. His imprisonment emboldened other believers. What looked like a setback became a setup.• Pastor Cyle walks through the "prisons" we all carry — addiction, bitterness, comparison, shame, depression, unforgiveness, spiritual apathy — and challenges us with a powerful question: What if the very thing you wish God would remove is the very thing He wants to use? • Key takeaway: Mature believers stop making everything about themselves. Joy is possible before the breakthrough comes — because it comes from Christ, not circumstances.

Send us Fan MailWhat does it mean to be clear about what you believe? In this message, Pastor Cyle Young of Heart o' the Lakes Church dives into one small but powerful word — viz. — found in the church's statement of faith. This Latin abbreviation meaning "namely" or "that is to say" leads into a rich conversation about the Christian ordinances of baptism, communion, and foot washing, and why the church must define the essentials while extending grace on everything else.Drawing from Scripture and real-life stories — from hospital-room baptisms to a card game tournament conversation about faith — Pastor Cyle challenges believers to loosen their grip on preferences, stop fighting over methods, and refocus on the mission: loving God, loving people, and pointing the world to Jesus."In essentials, unity. In non-essentials, liberty. And in all else, charity."

Send us Fan MailIs getting a tattoo a sin? Cyle, Cody, and Ryan tackle one of the church's most debated questions on this episode of Faith Questions. From Leviticus 19:28 to Paul's letters on Christian freedom, they dig into what the Old and New Testaments actually say — and what it means to live that out today. Cody shares his personal framework for making thoughtful decisions about tattoos, Ryan opens up about his own ink, and the guys land on a nuanced, grace-filled conclusion: it's not about what you can do, but what honors God and points others to Christ. If you've ever wondered whether body art and faith can coexist, this episode is for you.

Send us Fan MailCyle, Cody, Ryan, and Mark wrap up the Side Quest sermon series by tackling the ultimate Main Quest — knowing Christ and making Him known. After a fun detour into video games, card games, and the future of nursing homes, the crew gets into the real stuff: what it means to pursue Jesus with intention, why so many Christians get lost chasing shiny distractions, and how to bring your side quests back into alignment with the main quest. Cody challenges listeners to not just proclaim Jesus, but to proclaim the right Jesus — one whose character actually matches scripture. Plus, thoughts on discipleship, building real relationships with people outside your comfort zone, and why people should be envious of how Christians live.

Send us Fan MailIn this concluding message of the "Side Quest" series, the speaker uses the world of video games as a lens to examine life's ultimate purpose. Drawing from John 17:3, Matthew 28, Philippians 3:8, and Ephesians 2:8–9, he challenges listeners to move beyond the busyness of everyday "side quests" — achievements, sports, entertainment, and success — and pursue the one thing that truly matters: a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. The message closes with a call to action: start the main quest, walk with Jesus daily, and make Him known to the people around you.

Send us Fan MailDo dogs go to heaven? It's one of the most personal questions people ask about faith — and in this episode of Faith Questions, we dig into what the Bible actually says. We explore the difference between humans and animals in scripture, what Isaiah 11 tells us about the millennial kingdom, and whether your specific pet will be waiting for you in eternity. We give our honest take, even if it's not the answer everyone wants to hear. Got a faith question of your own? Send it our way — we tackle a new one every week.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the HOTLCast, Cyle, Matt, Ryan, and Mark dive deep into the "Side Quest Life" series — exploring how the people around us (your real-life NPCs) are never just background characters. From Salvation Army bell ringers to card game tournaments, they unpack what it looks like to live non-transactionally, invest in people without expecting a return, and watch God multiply what you give. It's a warm, honest conversation about faith, community, and keeping Jesus as your main quest.

Send us Fan MailIn this third installment of the Side Quest Life series, Pastor Cyle uses the concept of non-playable characters (NPCs) from video games to challenge listeners to stop treating people like background noise. Drawing from Matthew 9:35–38, Proverbs 27:17, and Luke 19:10, the message reveals that the people we rush past are not interruptions — they are God's divine appointments and the very harvest Jesus calls us to. The application is simple but convicting: slow down, make room in your schedule for people, and move at the speed of compassion.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the HOTLCast, hosts Cyle, Ryan, Carver, and Mark celebrate some exciting church milestones — new leadership roles, a booming youth ministry, and a bold hair-dye dare — before diving deep into their series Side Quest Life. Drawing from gaming culture and Scripture, the crew unpacks how to tell the difference between life's distractions and what God is truly calling you to, and why intentionality is the key to staying on the path. If you've ever felt pulled in a dozen directions, this one's for you.

Send us Fan MailPastor Cyle uses the video game metaphor of a "quest line" to challenge believers to stop wandering through life's side quests — hobbies, distractions, and self-directed living — and intentionally return to following Jesus as the one true path. Drawing from Psalm 119:105, John 8:12, and John 14:6, he calls the church to renewed obedience through Scripture, prayer, and accountability. The message culminates in a call to step out in faith — like Indiana Jones stepping over the chasm — trusting that God's way, even when unseen, leads to life, joy, and hope.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the HOTLCast, Matt, Ryan, Cody, and Mark, unpack the concept of "Side Quest Life" — the tendency to get so distracted by life's detours that we lose sight of what truly matters. From Skyrim analogies to therapy culture and social media traps, this conversation is honest, funny, and deeply practical. If you've ever felt off-track, overwhelmed, or unsure of your purpose, this episode will help you recalibrate.

Send us Fan MailUsing the world of video games as his lens, Pastor Cyle challenges his congregation to recognize the difference between life's endless "side quests" — hobbies, sports, schedules, and responsibilities — and the one thing that truly matters: knowing Jesus and making Him known. Anchored in Luke 10 and the story of Mary and Martha, the message calls out the danger of being busy with good things while neglecting the best thing — time at the feet of Jesus. The practical takeaway is a personal inventory: what is taking your time, your attention, and your affection, and is it time to clear your map and return to the main quest?

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the HOTLCast, Cyle, Matt, Ryan, and Mark dive into what it really means to be stuck — whether it's relationally, emotionally, financially, or spiritually — and what it takes to break free. Drawing from a real-life sandbar rescue in Florida, the guys share vulnerable personal stories about the seasons they've been stuck and how godly community made all the difference. If you're feeling like parts of your life just aren't working, this episode is for you.

Send us Fan MailDrawing from Matthew 7:24–27 and 2 Corinthians 6:2, Pastor Cyle challenges the congregation to stop delaying action on life's hidden problems. Using a vivid personal story of getting stranded on a sandbar in the Florida Keys as an approaching storm closed in, he illustrates that storms don't create problems — they expose them. The message calls listeners to build their lives on the foundation of Jesus Christ now, admit where they're stuck, and let God's people help them get unstuck before the storm arrives.

Send us Fan MailIn this Easter special edition of the HOTLCast, Cyle, Cody, Ryan, and Mark dive deep into why the empty tomb matters more than most Christians realize — and how living resurrection life looks radically different from a shame-and-guilt cycle. With warmth, humor, and real talk, the guys challenge listeners to stop going back to their old tombs and start walking in the new life Jesus made possible. If you've ever felt stuck in your past, this episode is for you.

Send us Fan MailIn this Easter message, Pastor Cyle declares that the resurrection of Jesus Christ is not merely a historical event but a present-day power available to every person. Anchored in Matthew 28 and Romans 8:11, the sermon reveals that the stone wasn't rolled away to let Jesus out — it was moved so we could see in. The central application calls every listener to stop revisiting the shame, guilt, and sin that Jesus has already conquered, and to boldly rise up into new life in him.