Pastor John Lovell

The Bible clearly commands that God's children keep the Sabbath holy, taking time to rest and enjoy the presence of God. Yet the modern-day hustle culture, as well as the legalistic, religious elite of the New Testament, distorts this spiritual discipline of honoring God on the Sabbath. One of Satan's favorite tactics is distraction, so he loves when our calendars are full of activities that take us away from resting and honoring our Lord.  Listen this week as Pastor John challenges believers to protect the Sabbath, knowing that we are divinely designed to need a solemn day of rest each week. When we follow the guidance of the Holy Spirit to obey this commandment, supernatural blessings are unleashed and our souls are nourished for His glory! Thanks for listening!Visit our website for more info:https://www.gracecityrome.com/

Jesus always throws the best party in town, and true to their hypocritical character, the religious elite called Him out for it. The stoic, "holy on demand" Pharisee crowd couldn't grasp the concept of freedom from the Old Testament Laws, and they held tightly to their restrictive performance pressures to be holy. Listen this week as Pastor John encourages the hearts of the believers through the story of Jesus feasting while the others fasted, breaking the ceremonial laws of the land. He urges us to create spirit-filled homes and communities where Jesus is celebrated and where those who adore Him cling to unity, break out in worshipful song, and enjoy the presence of our Holy God!Thanks for listening!Visit our website for more info:https://www.gracecityrome.com/

When Jesus Christ stepped into His earthly ministry, creating the most powerful religion on the planet, He didn't qualify His disciples through a resume filled with worldly accolades. The clever, hard-working, skilled leaders with excellent management and fund-raising skills were not the priority for Him, as He chose the unwanted, the poor, and the broken. God does not choose His teams like people do - He chooses the unworthy whose hearts are in need of rescue. Listen this week as Pastor John details the nature of Jesus's invitation, calling the most hated sinners to leave it all and follow Him. There was no mission statement, no begging or bargaining, no explanation of what this journey would entail - just pure faith in the Messiah that had come as promised! Jesus called out the proud and the arrogant who can never be satisfied outside of Jesus Christ Himself, and encourages all believers to just follow Him.Thanks for listening!Visit our website for more info:https://www.gracecityrome.com/

Our modern culture is on information and knowledge overload, yet who is wise and understanding among them? Charles Spurgeon was a highly influential English preacher from the 19th century who spoke with biblical authority when he wrote: "Wisdom is the right use of knowledge. To know is not to be wise; many men know a great deal and are all the greater fools for it." Listen this week as Brother Brett Gossett outlines the core biblical principles of wisdom, encouraging believers to live out the scriptural truth found in God's Word on this topic. As the world lives in darkness due to human sinfulness and continuous folly, he implores believers to practice godly wisdom that is overt, humble, and sacrificial. The truly wise man is the one completely dependent on the Word of God and who recognizes the voice of our one true Shepherd, Jesus Christ.Thanks for listening!Visit our website for more info:https://www.gracecityrome.com/

The gospel message starts out with some really bad news that our hearts are deceitful and that none of us can compare to the infinite goodness of God.  What a miraculous act indeed to pitch this Christianity truth as Jesus did, and yet still become the largest religion in the world, boasting billions of followers to date. The Bible tells us about the sinfulness of mankind and offers a sobering reminder that we are completely lost until we are drawn to repentance for our sins. Listen as Pastor John focuses this Easter message on your response to the gospel call, where Jesus shows mercy to the undeserving, demonstrates love to the unlovable, and extends grace to the entire world through His death on the cross. His Word, His blood, and His empty grave provide undeniable evidence that He came to us on a rescue mission. Christians can now boldly proclaim that He is Risen! He is Risen indeed! Thanks for listening!Visit our website for more info:https://www.gracecityrome.com/

The best of friends are the loyal, faithful, and hard-charging kind who will tear the roof off someone's house to get you to Jesus. By not allowing obstacles or inconveniences to stop them, these loving and selfless friends demonstrate how they are ALL IN for Jesus, seeking to do the highest good for their brothers in need. Listen this week as Pastor John brings to life a biblical story from Mark, a perfect example of the body of Christ taking care of each other. He outlines the characteristics of true friendships, focusing on the pure in heart who love Jesus and others. When believers recognize the full authority of Jesus, they become willing to act outside of the worldly guidelines for their friends who need our Lord and Savior!Thanks for listening!Visit our website for more info:https://www.gracecityrome.com/

In the New Testament, Jesus Christ intentionally equips and deploys His disciples and other teams as foot soldiers for the gospel message, sending them out with spiritual authority and purpose. This kingdom mission was fueled by divine empowerment granted by God the Father, as they possessed ALL AUTHORITY now to heal the sick, to restore the lost and broken lives, and to deliver people from demonic strongholds. Listen this week as Pastor Andy Middleton compels the church to continue this structured plan as outlined by the New King for spreading the gospel to a lost and dying world.  He recalls the success stories of the last 40 days of prayer and fasting and encourages Christians to make this disciplined preparation a lifestyle, not just a calendar commitment. As we are called and consecrated under God into our desolate places, let us focus on the biblical principles outlined for the mighty Kingdom Mission!Thanks for listening!Visit our website for more info:https://www.gracecityrome.com/

Without godly wisdom, even the grandest intentions performed in love can accidentally lead to destruction. The miraculously healed leper in the book of Mark had a passionate zeal for Jesus Christ, showed immense gratitude toward Him while in His presence, and then immediately acted disobediently upon leaving Jesus. The consequences of his actions affected the future ministry of Jesus, creating obstacles that could have been avoided had he just done what Jesus told him to do. Listen as Pastor John cautions us this week that it is possible to hurt others with our good intentions, if done so without godly counsel. He outlines several "ministries of destruction" that believers are to avoid in their spiritual walk. Christians are encouraged to seek God's wisdom in all matters related to the relationships in our families, churches, and communities.Thanks for listening!Visit our website for more info:https://www.gracecityrome.com/

*Apologies for the audio difficulties in the first 8 minutesIn the Gospel of Mark, scripture reveals Jesus waking very early in the morning to seek a desolate place to pray and spend time with His Heavenly Father. Though the crowds sought His teaching and His fellowship, Jesus Christ did not seek the earthly opportunity to grow His ministry or to focus on productivity and accomplishment. He did not allow human urgency or expectations to interfere with His time with His Father. Listen this week as Pastor John unpacks the scriptures that have transformative power in the lives of those who seek desolate places to enjoy communion with our Heavenly Creator. Saying "yes" to too many worldly tasks creates obstacles on our spiritual walk and prolongs our suffering under the weight of constant responsibility. Jesus models that true effectiveness in life and in ministry flows not from the normal rhythms of our overscheduled lives, but from quality alone time spent in prayer with God.Thanks for listening!Visit our website for more info:https://www.gracecityrome.com/

Jesus speaks with absolute authority as He began teaching in the synagogue in Capernaum and astonishes those who hear Him for the first time. The Son of God steps forward in unmistakable command, boldly and directly proclaiming His divinity while immediately silencing the voices of the demons in His presence. He heals the sick with compassion and rebukes the unclean spirits with all spiritual power. Listen this week as Pastor John challenges believers to answer some difficult questions: How do you see Jesus? Have you forsaken all worldly goods, body, and soul to Him? Have you humbled yourself before the King? The harsh reality that the world hates to hear is that you are either ALL IN for Jesus or you are ALL OUT and bound for hell. With total abandonment to Jesus, we are reminded to take up our cross and follow Him.Thanks for listening!Visit our website for more info:https://www.gracecityrome.com/

When Jesus was ready to assemble His core team of disciples, the world never expected that He would ordain a ragtag bunch of ordinary people with no social status or formal religious training.  He didn't call the rich, the religious sect, or the kings and princes. He called those with a heart for Him and whose life was ALL IN for the gospel message. Listen this week as Pastor John calls us to align our hearts with the Savior of the world, no matter what age or level of human prestige.  Evangelism has always been at the core of the great commission, and we are called to put our faith into action to change this world. The selection of those first 12 disciples - and every converted sinner since then - shows that the divine power of God is perfected through faithful obedience of His followers. Thanks for listening!Visit our website for more info:https://www.gracecityrome.com/

God's holy fingerprints are evident in the movement of His people and His church during this season of worship, prayer, and fasting. As the broken world feels unending pain and uncertainty about their present and future plans, Christians are being called to the mission field by Commander Jesus to advance the banner of His love and truth. Ancient biblical texts reveal story after story of battles and hardships, yet the heroes arise proclaiming victory while calling for God's people to display heartfelt repentance. Listen this week as Pastor John takes us on a spirit filled walk through the valley of decision, reminding us in a fiery message that God is doing His supernatural work in us and in our church. In this current season of brokenness in our communities and turmoil across our nation, the church will stand strong in our battle cry to the Lord: OUR EYES ARE ON YOU!Thanks for listening!Visit our website for more info:https://www.gracecityrome.com/

The Holy Spirit is stirring in His people, inviting the church to be called out and consecrated for His purpose.  Just as Jesus was called to the wilderness to commune with His Father God before His ministry ever began, we are being called to seek His holy presence through prayer and fasting.Listen as Pastor John passionately reminds us today to seek God's nearness, to commit to the discipline of gaining victory over our fleshly desires through sacrificial prayer and fasting. As God draws us in for this divinely ordained moment, we will unite as a church family, as a city, and as a nation, in a battle cry for repentance and revival. Together we will shout the holy invitation for others to join us in the kingdom of light!Thanks for listening!Visit our website for more info:https://www.gracecityrome.com/

John the Baptizer was arrested for calling out the kings, the emperors, and the religious elite, all who believed that their lofty positions of power and prestige could shield them from the truth of the gospel. As Jesus begins His ministry during this time, He proclaims that God's time has been fulfilled and that the kingdom of God is at hand, confirming John as a prophetic witness to the coming Messiah. Listen as Pastor John encourages us to be set apart from the rebellious multitudes who choose to live this life without God while embracing their own enslavement to worldly principles. We are to ignore the cultural silence of the modern era church and speak out with boldness for the kingdom of God. With King Jesus as the hero of our story, we can live out God's divine plan of redemption, starting with the truth of repentance and believing the gospel message.Thanks for listening!Visit our website for more info:https://www.gracecityrome.com/

Faithful leaders are held accountable to God's holiness and His commands. While Moses was divinely rescued by God and then anointed to lead millions of Israelites to the promised land, his disobedience left a void in the leadership mission he was appointed. Moses witnessed the burning bush, stood in the very presence of God, and was designated to carry the holy tablets written with the 10 Commandments, and yet, he was still not allowed to enter the promised land. In the modern church era, a failure in church leadership and discipleship has led to a new generation of believers carrying the torch for the gospel, just as Joshua did in the Old Testament. How do we prepare the younger generations to stand ready, capable, and confident in this monumental task? Listen as Pastor Andy Middleton encourages the church to shepherd and steward the move of God in our youth. This next generation are the faithful leaders of the kingdom mission, the ones who stand for truth and who surrender to the call of Jesus. Thanks for listening!Visit our website for more info:https://www.gracecityrome.com/

The New Testament clearly indicates a period of time that Jesus was directly tempted by Satan, the Tempter who questioned the identity and the will of God the Father.  Jesus, in human flesh, was alone, hungry, and exhausted from His fasting time in the wilderness, yet never allowed the external or internal temptations of Satan to sway Him from His mission here on earth.  Listen this week as Pastor John challenges believers to implement some biblical strategies, designed to untangle the chains of temptation that stunt our spiritual growth. Just as Jesus verbalized the Word of God in order to overcome demonic temptations, God's people can appeal to the Father during their seasons of guilt, shame, and unforgiveness. The greatest weapon in our war against temptation is the whole armor of God - and the greatest path to victory is through Jesus Christ, our Savior.Thanks for listening!Visit our website for more info:https://www.gracecityrome.com/

The prophets of the Old Testament foretold his coming, all four Gospels mention his name, and even the words of Jesus Himself declared that no man was greater than John the Baptist. This remarkable hero of the Christian faith didn't step into ministry with the outward display of holiness like the Pharisees with their fancy hats and robes, but instead, boldly proclaimed Jesus as Messiah wearing his camel hair and leather, eating honey and locusts. John the Baptizer paved the way for mankind to meet and know Jesus, the Savior of the world, knowing that persecution and possible death would be a consequence of their heavenly choice. Listen as Pastor John embarks on the Book of Mark this new year, reminding us that meeting God in the wilderness is necessary for our spiritual growth and a mission focused life. Courageous leadership and effective discipleship will come with a heavy burden, and only the strong and mighty will truly answer the radical call of the gospel.Thanks for listening!Visit our website for more info:https://www.gracecityrome.com/

The birth of Jesus Christ on that very first Christmas Day was the perfect gift from God the Father,  and was undoubtedly the most important day in the history of the whole universe. This cosmic event included supernatural angels and watchers, together with the prophets of old to declare that a Savior is born to us. After 400 years of silence from God and waiting for the Messiah, an angelic procession announced this universal event for the good of all mankind. Listen this week as Pastor John celebrates the daring Christmas plan of God from the cave to the cross, turning a long-awaited "Silent Night" into "Hark the Herald Angels Sing".Thanks for listening!Visit our website for more info:https://www.gracecityrome.com/

The world holds on tightly to their countless stories of rejection and betrayal, marked by repeated let-downs and disappointments from family and friends. This continuous trauma cycle of bitterness and unforgiveness causes poisoned hearts, isolated souls, and broken relationships. Listen this week as Pastor John directs our hearts to see Jesus as the perfect biblical model of forgiveness, the One who graciously cancelled all our sin debt at the cross. This foundation of forgiveness brings about spiritual freedom and relationship reconciliation, reflecting the transforming power of the Gospel. Forgiveness ~ it's not just a good idea, but a command from God with eternal consequences.Thanks for listening!Visit our website for more info:https://www.gracecityrome.com/

The Book of Philippians opens and closes with scripture regarding finances and money matters, therefore highlighting the deep spiritual relevance of the topic. The Apostle Paul is urging the Church of Philippi to view their riches according to their eternal rewards in following Christ, not in the monetary value of their assets. Listen this week as Pastor John concludes Philippians with a powerful reminder that the heavenly fruit we bear is much more important than any earthly riches we may acquire. He cautions believers to guard our hearts against the seduction of worldly gain, and to enjoy the true riches from our Savior that bring comfort, joy, and an abundance of gratitude in this glorious Christmas season.Thanks for listening!Visit our website for more info:https://www.gracecityrome.com/

In the New Testament, Jesus talked more times about money than He did about heaven and hell combined. Shouldn't believers follow this same model while escaping culture's money trap? The world distorts the dynamics of money, creating an idol that destroys families and relationships, while boasting that all money matters should be kept private and away from the church. The Apostle Paul admonishes the wealthy churches for their lack of generosity to building God's Kingdom, while praising the extreme poverty-ridden churches for their lavish generosity toward this great commission. Listen as Pastor John corrects some scriptural misunderstandings regarding the believer's tithes and offerings to the church. He warns us of the spiritual dangers of holding on tightly to that golden calf and reminds us that God's blessings will multiply when we live by His sacred principles of biblical stewardship.Thanks for listening!Visit our website for more info:https://www.gracecityrome.com/

Be very discerning when listening to casual Christians try to comfort or guide you with their favorite out-of-context Bible verses. While the lost world often seeks answers to their earthly woes in their next big promotions, fancy neighborhoods, or the biggest bank accounts, believers are walking in the truth of God's Word and finding contentment in Jesus. The Apostle Paul writes to the church at Philippi that God's provision for contentment can only be found in God's Holy Son, Jesus - and that we can indeed do all things through Christ in any circumstance. Listen this week as Pastor John clarifies some common scripture that is often misused to bring comfort or encouragement to others - and he warns all believers to study the Bible deeper for godly meaning and spiritual guidance. He implores us to find complete contentment by totally relying on Christ for all our daily needs, focusing on building God's Kingdom, not our own. As our society dangles that carrot in front of humans to chase the next best thing, Pastor John provides an action plan for believers to take control of their lives by fully trusting in God.Thanks for listening!Visit our website for more info:https://www.gracecityrome.com/

The Apostle Paul's quest to exhort encouragement to the early church at Philippi reminded believers to recalibrate their minds to walk in the way of Christ, in virtue and goodness. The modern world is full of doom and gloom, and humans feel the weighty pressure of such negativity and anxiety. The believer's mind, however, has become new and should intentionally focus on whatever is true, just, pure, and lovely, always seeking a heart of peace.  When we honor the commendable and worthy actions of those around us, it strengthens our own spiritual walk. Join Pastor John this week as he demonstrates putting God's Word into immediate action, honoring those who serve, those who endure hardship, those that achieve victory, and those who stand together as the body of Christ through all of it. When the enemy attempts to take you away from the majesty of God, hijack those negative thoughts and lead your mind back to God's grace and goodness. Thanks for listening!Visit our website for more info:https://www.gracecityrome.com/

In ancient biblical times, God's presence was centered around a holy temple and the old testament saints would journey to this dwelling place in eager anticipation of His glory. While this pilgrimage would often encounter human suffering and trial, the joy of being in the presence of our Holy God was more rewarding than any earthly comfort. Their souls longed for His courts and their hearts sang of the blessings of God. Listen this week as Brother Andy Middleton brings Psalms 84 to life for those who seek the very presence of Jesus, those desiring to pass down a legacy of knowing our Savior and abiding with Him. He challenges us to question if our lives are consistently advancing God's kingdom against the gates of hell, joining a sacred journey to bring hope and joy to this generation and the next. What makes your soul sing?Thanks for listening!Visit our website for more info:https://www.gracecityrome.com/

While some believers embrace their divisive and prideful intellect during a church conflict, the Apostle Paul models the proper church discipline with two faithful workers, free of judgement and always focused on the goal of unity in Christ and relationship reconciliation. "Unity" that abandons spiritual growth and ignores a biblical conviction of the heart cannot rightfully be called peace, as believers cannot be equally yoked with those who desire discord. Pastor John calls us to guard against pursuing unity with those who oppose the truth of who God is and what His Word states. Satanic double agents who display flagrant disobedience must be called out in the church in order to maintain the body of the church as holy and unified. Believers must agree in the Lord with our allies, while avoiding the "friendly fire" of the enemies of Christ.Thanks for listening!Visit our website for more info:https://www.gracecityrome.com/

Regardless of worldly circumstances, believers who are rooted in the Lord can live a continual life filled with peace and joy. The Apostle Paul encourages us to rejoice in all things brought on by our broken and sinful world, as we belong to an unchanging sovereign God whose standard of living is totally unrelated to the circumstances of this world. Listen as Pastor John reminds us this week that our joy in the Lord is like rain on a parched earth as we find respite from the enemies of fear and anxiety. He provides some practical, biblical strategies to unleash the holy joy in us through praise and worship, as the world struggles with numerous disorders that chain them to their anxiety. God grants believers a deep and abiding peace that surpasses human understanding, protecting our hearts and minds while we trust in His holy presence . Thanks for listening!Visit our website for more info:https://www.gracecityrome.com/

Quality mentorship is imperative for the spiritual growth of believers, as your age and the number of years professing your Christianity does not dictate the wisdom of a person.  Surrounding yourself with godly people in a world full of chaos requires discernment, discipline, and a desire to grow in Jesus Christ. The Apostle Paul calls for believers to live as citizens of heaven here on earth, imitating faithful followers of the Gospel, and boldly resisting worldly influences. Listen as Pastor John encourages believers to live with an eternal perspective, teaching others the Word of God, and sharing wisdom in order to strengthen each other and the body of Christ. He guides us to seek godly counsel for our lifetime and to follow the holy example of the perfect mentor, Jesus Christ.Thanks for listening!Visit our website for more info:https://www.gracecityrome.com/

Christians are not perfect people, we are just forgiven people who recognize that mankind is fatally flawed and that we need a Savior.  Believers have heard the liberating call of Jesus Christ to be gloriously authentic, pressing toward the mark of spiritual maturity, always reaching for holy ambition. Listen this week as Pastor John takes us to the Apostle Paul's letter to the church at Philippi regarding our identity in Christ. The world creates identity traps with their phony pretense, their Sunday masks, and their religious facade, while Jesus offers grace and restoration for our faults and sins. We have been called out of the darkness to grow in His glorious Light ~ so carry the weight worthy of the strength we have been given in Jesus Christ.Thanks for listening!Visit our website for more info:https://www.gracecityrome.com/

The Apostle Paul performs a savage take-down of the inadequate and corrupt religious crowd in the early church era. He proudly proclaimed in the book of Philippians that all his former religious accolades and laws were rubbish compared to the joy of his new heart and his new life in Jesus Christ.  Listen as Pastor John urges us to understand the distinction between religion and faith-based relationship, being well aware of the traps that the modern-day religious sect sets for authentic Christians.  While the arrogant and hypocritical religious people narrowly define the legalistic, inflexible rules of the church, those in real relationship with Christ are practicing love, joy, grace, and forgiveness.  Bearing the fruits of the Holy Spirit is the transforming outcome of a true believer's heart, as we know our righteousness comes only from Jesus Christ, our Savior. Thanks for listening!Visit our website for more info:https://www.gracecityrome.com/

The world is mourning the loss of some very influential, kingdom-building Christian leaders at this current time, those who unapologetically shared the Word of God. Carrying this burden of such devastating and heart-breaking loss brings believers closer to Jesus, and in the depth of our collective grief, His eternal promises bring much needed hope.  Listen as Pastor John upholds Epaphroditus, a loyal friend of the Apostle Paul, as a biblical model of the deep, spiritual brotherhood and sacrificial service that we are to seek in our Christian lives. He asks the congregation to embody the same truthful, loving, and servant-hearted characteristics for each other and for the local churches that are under persecution and spiritual warfare, always demonstrating the eternal hope of Jesus Christ.  Thanks for listening!Visit our website for more info:https://www.gracecityrome.com/

What would it be like to be part of a genuine dream team for your church? The Apostle Paul singles out a brother in Christ, Timothy, as a model for the kind of leader the church should value - those who put Christ and others first in all they do. The struggle to locate purely selfless men was as evident in the early church as it is in modern times. While sinful humans revel in their desire for status, prestige, and power, hiding behind their Sunday smiles and nice suits, Pastor John encourages us to release our white-knuckle grip on our idols of worship and allow God to transform us to be a selfless member of HIS holy team. The Holy Spirit compels us to radical faith, to unwavering trust, and to bold courage to lock arms and shields with believers, leaving behind our selfish rebellion and moving forward for the kingdom mission of the gospel.Thanks for listening!Visit our website for more info:https://www.gracecityrome.com/

This vile and broken world that we inhabit is full of warped and wicked displays of behavior, and the disgusting evidence from our current news cycles show a continuous downward spiral of moral decay. We have witnessed the evil of lost souls who celebrate the death of a Christian martyr, who harbor bitterness and anger in their hearts, and who stand boldly against any responsibility or accountability of their actions. The Apostle Paul witnessed these same sinful abominations in his early church-building era, and he warned Christians to stay blameless and pure in the face of a twisted and crooked generation. Listen as Pastor John uses Paul's letter to the Philippians to bring peace and hope to all believers in these perilous times, imploring us to be the reflection of the light of Jesus while standing firm on His gospel truth.  A church filled with the beacons of light who shine brightly against the evil of our lost and dying world will become a catalyst in building the kingdom of God. Thanks for listening!Visit our website for more info:https://www.gracecityrome.com/

To be saved through God's salvation plan is when you give your whole heart and life to Jesus Christ. It may begin with a beautiful, eternal moment at an earthly altar, but then the lifelong quest of His holiness and righteousness comes from our desire to serve Him and His people. The Apostle Paul reminds us in Philippians that the believers responsibility is the active pursuit of obedience in the process of sanctification. Listen this week as Pastor John walks us through several "tests" of our salvation, guiding us to always remember that biblical truth is very narrow and exclusive.  God has sacrificed Himself for your freedom and salvation - and now it's our turn to join Him on this mission to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ. This new heart that He provides for us will truly focus on and live out the Word of God by demonstrating the fruits of His Spirit, and by  serving others for the pleasure of Jesus Christ. Thanks for listening!Visit our website for more info:https://www.gracecityrome.com/

Love God and love others. This profound and simple foundation of Christian principle is boldly exclaimed by the Apostle Paul in his letter to the church at Philippi, as he calls the church to unity through humility. Listen as Pastor John passionately proclaims that the gifts of mercy and love that Christ has provided for believers in turn commissions us to extend this same humility and grace to others. The world is thirsty for meaningful relationships, hungering for more than just small talk about the weather or for a number of clicks on social media. Loneliness is rampant in our broken world, and Pastor John builds a case this week for unity - where we are all in one mind and one accord, focused on the gospel of Jesus Christ. Counting others as more significant than ourselves provides an "anti-self" Bible concept that is foreign to the lost world, yet encourages believers to out-give, out-serve, and out-love those around us.Thanks for listening!Visit our website for more info:https://www.gracecityrome.com/

The road to victory often goes through pain and suffering, as the Bible does not endorse the current worldview of happiness - that temporary, shallow emotional state based on external circumstances. The Apostle Paul calls for a genuine unity of believer's hearts and minds at the church of Philippi, reminding them that Jesus offers holiness, eternal joy, and a purpose-driven fulfillment that no earthly circumstances can provide. Listen now as Pastor John encourages each of us to enjoy the benefits of being granted belief in Jesus Christ, while compelling us to prepare for the upcoming suffering, where that fire forges strength in the believer's heart.  These rich narratives of the Old Testament invite us this week to examine our lives and to live worthy of the gospel of Jesus Christ.Thanks for listening!Visit our website for more info:https://www.gracecityrome.com/

A unique form of radical extremism is demonstrated through the Apostle Paul's letter to the Philippians, as he wrestles with the tension of his soul's deep desire to be with Jesus and his heart's desire to strengthen the spiritual walk of the new believers.  This significantly personal and theological reflection views death as a personal gain and a deeper doorway to fellowship with Jesus, not as a loss to be feared or dreaded. Listen as Pastor John exposes the casual Christian through God's Word and warns believers against practicing a counterfeit, part-time faith. He reminds believers of the sacrifices needed when we choose to carry that cross, an instrument of death and pain. The "ALL IN" believer stands faithful, fearless, generous, and constantly striving for the mission of the gospel, with a rare and intense desire to fully trust in and surrender to God.Thanks for listening!Visit our website for more info:https://www.gracecityrome.com/

The seeds of destruction are sown in churches across America when envy, rivalry, and selfish ambition enter in, sometimes disguised as a true ministry of the gospel. In his letter to the Philippians, the Apostle Paul acknowledges that people can sometimes do the right thing (preach the gospel) for the wrong reasons (approval of man, influence, power). Pastor John warns us today that if hearts are deceived and driven by a desperate need for recognition and validation, then the church will fail, as it cannot stand when rooted in self-righteousness. Listen now as he emboldens Christians to rejoice at the gospel message being spread, regardless of motives of the some holier-than-thou messengers. He also sets the biblical guidelines for a healthy church, one focused on the mission of kingdom advancement and founded on the gospel truth.Thanks for listening!Visit our website for more info:https://www.gracecityrome.com/

Being imprisoned typically denotes disgrace and punishment upon the outcast who experiences social shame and failure. The Apostle Paul's message to the Philippians, however, completely flips the script on this prisoner stereotype, as he defied the worldly expectations of his confinement in a Roman prison.  He boldly proclaimed that his chains and his suffering were golden opportunities to lead others to freedom, as the imperial guards within the prison walls would be a captive audience for this strategic advancement of the gospel. Listen now as Pastor John delivers a compelling message regarding the Christian's radical perspective on suffering, along with a warning against the dire consequences of relying on worldly strategies to escape such suffering. As followers of Christ, we are called to choose courage over fear and to rejoice in the sanctifying pressure that deepens our spiritual growth and increases our reliance on our Lord Jesus Christ.Thanks for listening!Visit our website for more info:https://www.gracecityrome.com/

The loneliness epidemic is sweeping across our nation at statistically alarming rates, and this modern day trend is in incredible contrast to the divine, biblical design that calls us to vibrant fellowship and love for our fellow man. The Apostle Paul demonstrates in Philippians that Christians are called to be radically different, yearning to be with each other, having affection toward your brothers and sisters in Christ, and sacrificing together for the sake of the gospel. Pastor John's powerful message today recalls the true "happy few", the Christian martyrs who have joyfully counted death as a worthy sacrifice to spread the gospel, singing songs of praise and showing joy at the guillotine scaffold. He outlines a plan to combat the alienation problems of our current culture, and it starts with knowing the founder of this movement we call Christianity, Jesus Christ. Listen now as he encourages us to cut the weight of sin and complacency, live joyfully for eternal purpose, and set free the Holy Spirit to run rampant in the hearts of His people. Thanks for listening!Visit our website for more info:https://www.gracecityrome.com/

An unrivaled passion for Jesus and the gospel message is fully demonstrated by the Apostle Paul,  as he pens a letter to the church of Philippi while imprisoned in a Roman jail. His message of the completed work of Jesus Christ offers believers a new perspective on some old beliefs, reiterating the promise of eternal security for those new Christians. Pastor John opens up a series on the book of Philippians this week with an exuberant message of our salvation plan, an unstoppable victory procession from election to glorification. When believers receive the gospel call away from this world, we undergo an amazing spiritual process of regeneration, where we receive a new heart, a new life, and a new desire to shift our time and our resources to building God's kingdom and serving others. The sanctification process is a challenging one for believers because the battle of the flesh rages there, but those biblical promises of eternity are worth this wild and joyful mission for our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.Thanks for listening!Visit our website for more info:https://www.gracecityrome.com/

Just outside the Garden of Eden Cain was the first man born into a world of sin, and through him,  the ancient texts of the Bible show mankind's first demonstration of refusal to fight against one's own sinful nature. God pronounces His sovereign and righteous judgement on those who let arrogance and pride rule over their heart, yet in His infinite mercy, He offers grace to those who humbly repent and seek forgiveness. Listen this week as Brett Gossett shares a passionate sermon on overcoming our own selfishness through the process of sanctification, while presenting some tough questions regarding the sins we choose to hold onto tightly. He encourages fellow believers, who are saved by grace and marked by love, to walk in humility and selflessness, knowing that our true value comes solely from our Savior, Jesus Christ.Thanks for listening!Visit our website for more info:https://www.gracecityrome.com/

Highly valued women are viewed as essential to the early Christian church and are honored in the Bible for their obedience to their faith. In the Apostle Paul's heartfelt conclusion in his letter to the Romans, he commends the worthy efforts of the community of like-minded believers, who have shared their faith and their services while on a focused mission for the gospel. In stark contrast to the modern-day "Boss Babe" culture that encourages dominance, pride, and competition, the Bible clarifies a woman's role in the family, the church, and the community, encouraging a noble servanthood with godly attributes.  Listen as Pastor John acknowledges the benefits of women's leadership in building the ancient church and encourages us to celebrate the gifts and  contributions of today's women in our Christian communities.Thanks for listening!Visit our website for more info:https://www.gracecityrome.com/

One of the most influential preachers and theologians of the 19th Century, Charles Spurgeon,  once asserted that "every Christian is either a missionary or an imposter".  Seemingly impossible missions, whose cause is Jesus Christ, have created some unlikely heroes in our Christian past. Pastor John's message this week celebrates these past champions of the Christian faith. He guides us through the scripture that shows the Apostle Paul's heart for mission work, as the apostle pioneered the biblical model for evangelism, and created a global impact for the gospel. He emphasizes the responsibility of every believer to actively share the gospel  - and then challenges us to examine our commitment to Christ's mission, whether in the local or the foreign mission fields. Let God's Word reveal the clarity of your mission for Christ!Thanks for listening!Visit our website for more info:https://www.gracecityrome.com/

Strong Christian believers are called to act in love and to follow the example of Jesus Christ, whose ultimate sacrifice led to the rescue of others. Spiritual strength and robust faith equip believers to prioritize the needs of weaker Christians and to sacrificially bear the failings of those who fall behind.  Against all cultural beliefs regarding strength and masculinity, the church has a biblical obligation to build each other up through prayer and service. Listen this week as Pastor John emphasizes the importance of boldly flexing our Christian faith - physically, mentally, and spiritually - as we are commanded to be strong and courageous. Strength is a divine gift from God and should be continually pursued, not for personal gain but for serving others and glorifying God in unity.Thanks for listening!Visit our website for more info:https://www.gracecityrome.com/

Imagine your response to being plucked from the crowded streets of Jerusalem by Roman soldiers and commanded to carry the cross of Jesus. The New Testament recounts the story of Simon of Cyrene, who was compelled to carry this heavy, splintered, blood-stained cross and bear the burden of following Jesus. Grace City Rome welcomes Guest Pastor Hank Stanley from Roatan, Honduras to the pulpit this week with this spirit-filled message of sacrifice and reward. Listen as he urges believers to remember the goodness of God, because walking with Him will always cost you something. He encourages us in this broken world to stand strong in Christ, to enjoy the holy presence of God, and to be bold as a lion as we carry our crosses for future generations.Thanks for listening!Visit our website for more info:https://www.gracecityrome.com/

The Bible is quite clear in how Christians are directed to handle their differences in personal convictions, particularly regarding the matters of our faith that are not essential to salvation. While civil discourse is welcome concerning a variety of opinions, we are to accept these differences among believers without judging and division. The Apostle Paul encourages believers in Romans 14 to live in peace, building each other up, and embracing our differences as we serve our Savior, Jesus Christ, together in unity.  Listen as Pastor John emboldens us to care more about personal relationships than about being right, and to actively pursue opportunities for forgiveness, peace, and unity.Thanks for listening!Visit our website for more info:https://www.gracecityrome.com/

Believers in Jesus Christ would wholeheartedly agree that the laws of the Old Testament were oppressive and unattainable, so the life-altering advice offered in Romans this week provides the life and freedom we all desire. God's great love for His children is witnessed in the life of Jesus Christ and all of His commandments can be summarized into one eternal directive: Love One Another. It was love that held Jesus on that cross, love that lifted Him from death, and that love radically changes the Christians' lives. Pastor John offers a wake-up call to the church, reminding us of the battle for precious souls raging all around us. Will you have the courage to put on the Armor of Light to bring souls to Jesus? Or do you hold tightly to your Armor of Darkness and only please yourself? Strive to love and to live freely with the holy expectation of Christ's return. Thanks for listening!Visit our website for more info:https://www.gracecityrome.com/

One key moment in time changed the whole trajectory for all of mankind on earth. While the enemy believed that the final blow was struck at the death of Jesus on the cross, Jesus was accomplishing His mission by holding all the sins of the world between His nail-scarred hands. Cover to cover, the Bible reveals the majestic story of Jesus Christ, and all of history revolves around a singular moment in time of His birth, while finding eternal life in His death. Listen as Pastor John discloses the glory of God through the life and death of Jesus, His Son, who profoundly shaped the course of human history, influencing billions of people and shaping civilizations for over two millennia. Grounded in theological and historical perspectives, the resurrection of Jesus Christ brings hope to a lost and dying world. HE IS RISEN!Thanks for listening!Visit our website for more info:https://www.gracecityrome.com/

Government officials are tasked with upholding justice, punishing evil, and promoting societal good, and since their authority is derived from God, it implies a divine purpose in their role. Submission to this worldly authority is both practical and moral, as long as it aligns with God's divine will. When challenged with the burdensome weight of an unrighteous government authority, believers are called to stand against this fallen entity, yet commissioned by God's commands to continue to spread the gospel, even behind enemy lines. Listen this week as Pastor John clears up that hazy line between civil obedience and civil disobedience, urging believers to live peaceably amidst Non-Christian governance. He encourages us to balance our Christian, God-given freedoms with our civic duties and responsibilities. We are ONE NATION UNDER GOD - and we will boldly declare the excellency of His Holy Counsel.Thanks for listening!Visit our website for more info:https://www.gracecityrome.com/

The world often promotes a misinformed mindset of "getting even"  or "settling the score", a dangerous revenge story they rely on when someone wrongs them. This self-centered attitude will consume one's life and steal what joy they may have. The Apostle Paul presents a contrasting challenge to the believers in Rome when he proclaims a wildly heroic command of Jesus to bless those who persecute you, reflecting God's mercy instead of human vengeance. Scripture emphasizes that vengeance belongs to the Lord alone and urges us to trust Him to judge and repay evil. Listen as Pastor John encourages believers to adhere to this spiritual call for unity, demonstrating love and forgiveness to all who offend, while spreading the gospel through peace and humility.Thanks for listening!Visit our website for more info:https://www.gracecityrome.com/