PODCAST · religion
Wells Branch Community Church
by Chris Plekenpol
Wells Branch Community Church exists to: Love God. Love people. Make disciples. Pastor Chris Plekenpol is the primary communicator at Wells Branch Community Church. You can find the latest sermon here.
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To Be A Mom - Mother's Day 2026
Send us Fan MailDiscover the surprising connection between maternal relationships and resilience through groundbreaking Navy SEAL research. This powerful message explores how mothers build unshakeable faith in the next generation, drawing from biblical examples of spiritual motherhood and practical strategies for raising resilient children.Learn about the fascinating study that revealed 90% of successful Navy SEAL candidates had strong relationships with their mothers, demonstrating the profound impact of maternal bonds on developing resilience and emotional strength. Explore how this research connects to biblical principles of spiritual parenting and faith development.Dive deep into Paul's relationship with Timothy as a model of spiritual motherhood and fatherhood. Understand how Timothy's mother Eunice and grandmother Lois built a foundation of sincere faith that sustained him throughout his ministry. Discover practical ways to create spiritual rhythms in your home and pass faith to the next generation.This message addresses the challenges many face on Mother's Day, including infertility struggles, estranged relationships, and mom guilt, while celebrating the vital role of both biological and spiritual mothers. Learn how every person can participate in spiritual motherhood, regardless of their family situation.Key topics covered include creating spiritual rhythms, making God's Word a priority, building resilient faith in children, the power of consistent prayer and blessing, and practical strategies for spiritual parenting. Whether you're a mother, father, mentor, or someone who influences children, this message provides actionable steps for investing in the next generation.Discover how routine prayer, Scripture engagement, and spiritual rhythms build lasting faith foundations. Learn why the most important contribution to God's kingdom might not be professional achievements, but the spiritual investment made in raising and mentoring others.Perfect for parents, grandparents, mentors, teachers, and anyone who wants to understand the profound impact of spiritual motherhood on building resilient faith. This message combines research-backed insights with biblical wisdom to show how maternal influence shapes character, resilience, and spiritual strength for generations.
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John 14: Why trust Jesus?
Send us Fan MailDiscover the compelling evidence for Jesus Christ's divine claims in this examination of one of history's most important questions. When Jesus claimed to be the Son of God, he left humanity with only three logical possibilities, known as the Lewis Trilemma: liar, lunatic, or Lord. This biblical analysis explores the historical evidence, eyewitness accounts, and logical arguments that support Jesus's identity as the divine Son of God.Learn about the powerful testimony found in Mark chapter 3, where even demons recognized Jesus's divine nature. Explore how Jesus's own family initially thought he was mentally unstable, yet his brothers James and Jude later became believers and New Testament authors. Discover how religious leaders accused Jesus of being empowered by Satan, and examine his logical response that exposed the flaws in their reasoning.This study examines what Jesus actually gained from his divine claims - poverty, persecution, and crucifixion rather than wealth, power, and comfort. Most compelling is the testimony of the disciples, who all chose martyrdom rather than deny what they had witnessed. From Peter's upside-down crucifixion in Rome to Thomas's death in India, these men had every opportunity to abandon Christianity if it were false.The evidence includes biblical prophecy fulfillment, historical documentation, archaeological discoveries, and the transformed lives of millions throughout history. This examination addresses common objections to Christianity while presenting the case for faith based on reason, evidence, and historical facts.Whether you're a skeptic seeking answers, a new believer wanting to understand your faith better, or someone curious about Christianity, this study provides valuable insights into the most important question ever asked: Who is Jesus Christ? The evidence demands a verdict, and the implications affect not just how we live but our eternal destiny.Topics covered include Christian apologetics, biblical evidence, historical Jesus, religious studies, faith and reason, New Testament reliability, and the case for Christianity. Perfect for Bible study groups, Sunday school classes, or personal devotional time.
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2 Peter: Why trust the Bible?
Send us Fan MailDiscover compelling evidence for biblical reliability and why the Bible stands as the most trustworthy ancient text in existence. This comprehensive examination reveals how the New Testament surpasses all other ancient manuscripts in both quantity and proximity to original writings, with over 5,800 Greek manuscripts and earliest copies dating within 25-30 years of composition. Learn about groundbreaking archaeological discoveries that continue to validate biblical accounts, including the Pool of Bethesda, Pool of Siloam, Pilate Stone, and Dead Sea Scrolls. Explore the mathematical impossibility of Jesus accidentally fulfilling over 300 Old Testament prophecies, with detailed analysis of Isaiah 53 written 250 years before Christ's birth. Understand how manuscript evidence, archaeological confirmation, and fulfilled prophecy work together to establish biblical authority. Discover research involving 40,000 people showing dramatic life improvements from regular Bible reading, including reduced loneliness, anger, addiction, and increased spiritual growth. Learn why the Bible's self-authentication through 66 books by 40 authors pointing to the same redemptive truth sets it apart from other religious texts. Explore how the living Word of God transforms hearts and minds through divine inspiration and the power of the Holy Spirit. Perfect for anyone questioning biblical reliability, seeking evidence for faith, or wanting to understand why Christians trust Scripture as God's authoritative Word. Includes practical application for engaging with Scripture and experiencing its life-changing power in daily living.
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Romans 2: Universal Morality
Send us Fan MailUniversal morality across cultures proves God exists and reveals our need for salvation through Jesus Christ. Discover how the moral argument for God demonstrates divine truth through human conscience and biblical evidence.Every culture on earth shares remarkably similar moral principles, from prohibitions against murder and theft to understanding basic fairness and honesty. This universal moral awareness cannot be explained by evolution or social conditioning alone—it points to an objective moral law written on human hearts by God Himself.C.S. Lewis noted that when people argue, they appeal to universal standards of right and wrong that both parties recognize. This suggests an inherent understanding of moral truth that transcends cultural boundaries. The Bible confirms this in Romans 2:14-15, where Paul explains that God's moral law is written on every human heart, with conscience serving as an internal witness.Biblical examples throughout history demonstrate this principle: Cain knew murder was wrong before the Ten Commandments, Joseph recognized adultery as sin, and Rachel understood stealing was wrong. These moral principles existed from the beginning, inscribed in human nature by our Creator.Our conscience serves as God's internal judge, rewarding us with peace when we do right and convicting us with guilt when we do wrong. This explains why non-Christians can perform heroic deeds and live moral lives—God's image and moral law within them enables good actions even without a personal relationship with Him.However, this moral awareness also reveals our need for salvation. When we honestly examine our lives against God's perfect standard, we must admit we've all fallen short. Our conscience doesn't just inform us of right and wrong—it convicts us of our failures and points us toward our desperate need for forgiveness.The moral argument provides a powerful evangelistic tool because it begins with truth everyone already recognizes. You don't need to convince people that morality exists—they already live as if it does. Instead, help them trace this moral awareness back to its source: a holy God who has written His law on every human heart.For those struggling with guilt and shame, Jesus Christ offers complete forgiveness. For those who think they're good enough on their own, remember that no amount of good works can erase violations of conscience. Everyone needs the salvation that only Jesus provides.Christians shouldn't hide their struggles to appear better than they are. Our hope isn't in being really good people—it's in Jesus Christ who saves sinners. Be honest about your need for grace and enjoy the freedom that comes with knowing you're forgiven through Christ's finished work.
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Romans 1: Evidence for God
Send us Fan MailDiscover compelling scientific evidence for God's existence that challenges common assumptions about faith and science. This exploration examines how Earth's perfectly calibrated atmosphere, Jupiter's protective role, and the Moon's precise positioning all point to intelligent design rather than random chance.Learn how the Apollo 13 mission reveals the incredible fine-tuning required for life on Earth, from our planet's exact distance from the sun to its unique oxygen-nitrogen ratio. Explore how Jupiter functions as our solar system's cosmic shield, protecting Earth from devastating asteroid impacts that would otherwise make life impossible.Delve into the scientific revolution that moved from steady state theory to Big Bang cosmology, and discover why brilliant minds like Einstein initially resisted the implications of a universe with a beginning. Understand how the discovery of cosmic microwave background radiation provided definitive proof that matter, space, and time all came into existence simultaneously.Examine the philosophical implications of first cause arguments and why the question isn't whether there's enough evidence for God's existence, but whether we're willing to acknowledge uncomfortable truths. Learn about human tendencies to suppress truth through pluralism, relativism, and skepticism when faced with evidence that challenges our worldview.This presentation addresses common objections including the problem of evil and suffering, explaining how our moral intuitions actually point to a transcendent standard. Discover how the Creator who designed the universe stepped into history as Jesus Christ to offer redemption and hope.Perfect for anyone questioning faith, seeking answers about God's existence, or wanting to understand how science and Christianity complement rather than contradict each other. Whether you're a skeptic examining evidence or a believer seeking renewed confidence, this content demonstrates that faith isn't blind but based on solid evidence throughout creation.Keywords: God existence evidence, fine tuning universe, Big Bang theory Christianity, intelligent design, Apollo 13 Earth conditions, Jupiter cosmic protection, Moon stabilization, first cause argument, science faith compatibility, cosmic microwave background, creation evidence, atheism vs theism, moral argument God, problem evil suffering, Jesus Christ salvation, biblical worldview science
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Easter 2026: From Fear to Faith
Send us Fan MailDiscover how the resurrection of Jesus Christ can transform your daily life and eliminate fear from your decision-making. This powerful message explores the connection between ancient biblical truth and modern-day struggles with anxiety, financial stress, and relationship challenges. Learn from the three different responses to the resurrection found in Matthew 28 - the fearful guards who chose deception, the faithful women who became witnesses, and the disciples who worshiped despite their doubts. Understanding the resurrection isn't just about believing in a historical event, but experiencing the present reality of Christ's power in your life today. Explore how spending time in Christ's presence brings supernatural peace that surpasses understanding and enables you to fulfill your God-given purpose. The Great Commission becomes achievable not through human effort, but through the promise that Jesus is with us always. Whether you're facing health concerns, financial uncertainty, or relational struggles, the same power that raised Jesus from the dead is available to transform your circumstances. This biblical teaching provides practical steps for moving from fear-based living to resurrection hope, showing how ancient truth applies to contemporary challenges. Perfect for anyone seeking to understand how Christian faith intersects with real-life problems and how to experience God's peace in difficult seasons. Includes discussion of biblical passages from Matthew 28 and Romans 12, with practical application questions for personal reflection and spiritual growth.
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1 Corinthians 11: Why Ordinances?
Send us Fan MailDiscover the profound meaning behind two of Christianity's most important practices: baptism and communion. These sacred sacraments aren't just religious traditions but powerful spiritual signs that make the Gospel visible to believers. Learn why baptism symbolizes death and resurrection with Christ, representing the complete washing away of sin and transformation into new life. Understand how communion serves as both remembrance of Christ's sacrifice and spiritual nourishment for the soul. This comprehensive explanation covers the biblical foundation for these practices, including insights from Romans 6:3-4, Acts 2:38, and 1 Corinthians 11:24-26. Explore why every believer should be baptized and how to properly prepare your heart for communion. Whether you're new to faith or seeking deeper understanding of Christian worship, this teaching provides essential knowledge about sacraments, Gospel truth, spiritual growth, and biblical obedience. Perfect for anyone wanting to understand the significance of baptism and communion in Christian life, church membership, and spiritual development.
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1 Timothy 2:1-7: Why do we pray?
Send us Fan MailDiscover the transformative power of corporate prayer and why it has been essential to Christian worship for over 2,000 years. Learn how prayer serves as a divine partnership where God uses our intercession to accomplish His will on earth, just as the early church experienced in Acts. This comprehensive guide explores biblical principles of prayer, including how to pray for difficult people, government leaders, and the lost.Understand why the early church consistently gathered for corporate prayer - seeking boldness during persecution, wisdom in conflicts, healing for the sick, and guidance in missions. Explore how Justin Martyr described early Christian worship in 150 A.D. and why corporate prayer remains a cornerstone of faith today.Learn practical applications for expanding your prayer life beyond personal needs. Discover how to pray effectively for all people, including those you find challenging, following the biblical mandate in First Timothy. Understand the importance of praying for government leaders at every level - from national to local officials - focusing on justice, protection of the vulnerable, and conditions for human flourishing.Explore the role of Jesus as our one mediator and how we have direct access to God through Him. Learn about the wrestling and striving aspects of biblical prayer, moving beyond simple requests to passionate, persistent intercession. Understand how corporate prayer builds genuine Christian community, strengthens faith, and allows believers to participate actively in God's transformative work.This teaching provides practical steps for developing a more robust prayer life, including specific categories for daily prayer focus: difficult relationships, government leaders, and evangelistic prayer for the lost. Discover how expanding your prayer beyond personal needs can lead to witnessing God move in bigger ways and experiencing stronger faith.Whether you're new to corporate prayer or looking to deepen your understanding, this message offers biblical foundations, historical context, and practical applications for engaging in the kind of prayer that has sustained the church for millennia. Learn how your prayers have real power because God chooses to use them to accomplish His purposes in the world.
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Psalm 92: Why do we sing?
Send us Fan MailWhy do Christians sing in church? This question goes back over 2,000 years to the earliest Christian communities who continued singing worship songs even under persecution. Understanding the biblical purpose of worship music can transform how you approach corporate worship and deepen your faith.Discover the three essential purposes of Christian singing found in Psalm 92. Learn why singing is devotional - expressing joy and gratitude to God in ways that activate different parts of your brain than regular speech. Explore how singing is didactic, teaching biblical truth and helping you memorize important theological concepts just like you learned the alphabet through song. Understand why singing is declarative, allowing you to proclaim truth and encourage fellow believers through your participation.This message examines early church history, showing how figures like Justin Martyr and Pliny the Younger documented the central role of singing in Christian worship. Even Roman governors noted that Christians would risk their lives just to sing hymns to Jesus Christ.Learn why the content of worship songs matters for spiritual growth. Discover how theologically rich hymns like In Christ Alone teach systematic theology through music, embedding essential Christian doctrine deep into your heart and mind. Understand why shallow worship songs can lead to shallow faith, and why churches need songs that teach the full counsel of God.Whether you love singing or struggle to participate in worship music, this message will help you understand your important role in corporate worship. Your voice matters - not because of how it sounds, but because it serves to worship God, learn biblical truth, and build up the faith of those around you.Perfect for anyone wanting to understand the biblical foundation for worship music, church leaders planning worship services, or believers looking to deepen their participation in corporate worship. Includes practical application for preparing your heart for worship and choosing songs that build faith throughout the week.
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2 Timothy 4: Why Preaching?
Send us Fan MailDiscover why biblical preaching has remained central to Christian worship for over 2,000 years and continues to transform lives today. This powerful exploration of 2 Timothy 3-4 reveals the divine authority behind God's Word and its essential role in personal and corporate spiritual growth. Learn about the three critical functions of biblical preaching: reproof, rebuke, and exhortation, and how each serves to shape believers into spiritual maturity. Understanding the purpose of preaching helps Christians approach God's Word with the right heart attitude and expectations for transformation. This message addresses the challenges facing today's church, including cultural pressure to compromise biblical truth and the temptation to seek comfortable messages rather than transformative ones. Explore how faithful preaching builds corporate resilience and helps the church stand firm on Scripture regardless of popular opinion or social pressure. The cost of faithful preaching is examined through Paul's example of suffering for the gospel, while also highlighting the eternal rewards for those who remain faithful to God's Word. This teaching emphasizes the difference between biblical preaching and other forms of teaching, showing why authoritative proclamation of Scripture is essential for spiritual growth. Perfect for pastors, church leaders, and believers seeking to understand the power and purpose behind biblical preaching. Topics covered include the authority of Scripture, personal transformation through God's Word, church resilience, cultural challenges to biblical truth, and proper response to preaching. Whether you're struggling with conviction from God's Word or wondering why preaching remains relevant in modern times, this message provides biblical answers and practical application for spiritual growth.
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Acts 20: Why Sundays?
Send us Fan MailWhy do Christians worship on Sunday instead of Saturday? What does the Bible say about weekly church attendance? This comprehensive study explores the biblical foundations for Christian worship practices, tracing the origins from Old Testament Sabbath commands to New Testament church gatherings. Discover why God established weekly worship rhythms in Exodus 20 and Leviticus 23, and how early Christians shifted from Saturday to Sunday worship to commemorate Christ's resurrection. Learn about the apostolic example in Acts 20:7 and historical evidence from church fathers like Justin Martyr in 155 A.D. Understanding corporate worship, biblical commands about church attendance, and why Hebrews 10:24-25 warns against neglecting church gatherings. Explore the spiritual benefits of weekly worship, including community encouragement, spiritual growth, and using your gifts to bless others. Address common obstacles to regular church attendance and discover how weekly worship strengthens both individual faith and the church body. Learn about the historical impact of Sunday worship laws and companies like Chick-fil-A that honor this principle. This biblical study covers Sabbath commandments, resurrection significance, early church history, corporate worship benefits, spiritual disciplines, church attendance importance, Christian community, biblical obedience, worship practices, and spiritual growth through regular fellowship with believers.
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Ecclesiastes 12: Family Values Wrap Up
Send us Fan MailDiscover how to establish biblical family values that will impact generations and create a lasting spiritual legacy in your home. This comprehensive guide explores the wisdom of Solomon from Ecclesiastes 12:9-14, showing how the wisest man who ever lived carefully selected and transmitted essential truths to future generations. Learn practical strategies for choosing 3-7 core family values that are both biblical and memorable, avoiding the common mistake of trying to include everything.Explore how family values function as spiritual tools for shepherding your household toward godliness, creating teachable moments in everyday situations rather than relying on arbitrary rules. Whether you're parenting biological children or discipling spiritual children, these principles apply to anyone seeking to pass down faith to the next generation. Understand the difference between cultural preferences and biblical truth, ensuring your family values are rooted in Scripture rather than personal opinions or societal trends.Discover practical methods for making your values memorable, including using acrostics with your family name or meaningful words. Learn how to display and incorporate these values into daily family worship, discipline, and teaching moments. The content addresses both families with children and singles who want to prepare for future families or spiritual parenting roles.Understand the ultimate goal of family values: training people to fear God with reverence and respect, preparing them for eternity. This isn't about creating perfect people but establishing a culture of grace where failures point to our need for Jesus Christ. Get practical steps for implementation, including prayer, Scripture study, and concrete action plans for moving from good intentions to established family culture.Whether you're just starting a family, have teenagers, or are empty nesters looking to influence the next generation, these biblical principles provide a framework for creating values that will outlast your lifetime. Learn how to be intentional about the spiritual legacy you're leaving and take concrete steps toward establishing family values that honor God and impact generations to come.
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1 Corinthians 13 | Family Values: Love
Send us Fan MailDiscover what makes Christian love different from worldly romance and how it should define believers beyond Valentine's Day celebrations. This message explores the biblical foundation of love as the distinguishing characteristic of Christ's followers, examining why many Christians struggle to live out this calling despite knowing its importance. Learn about the three main obstacles that hinder authentic Christian love: pride seeking recognition, wounds from past church experiences, and fear of vulnerability that prevents genuine relationships. Understand how real biblical love requires action rather than just feelings, and why even impressive spiritual activities become worthless without love as the driving motivation. Explore the practical characteristics of Christian love from First Corinthians 13, including patience, kindness, and selflessness, while discovering how this love differs from being a doormat. The message reveals the secret to lasting love: being fully known and completely accepted by Christ, which transforms how we love others. Discover how God's love doesn't just accept us as we are but changes us from the inside out, enabling us to extend grace, forgiveness, and sacrificial love to others. Learn practical applications for marriage relationships, family dynamics, and church community, including how to respond when life pressures reveal what's truly stored in our hearts. This teaching addresses common relationship struggles, emotional maturity in marriage, choosing words carefully with family members, and growing in Christlikeness through difficult relationships. Perfect for anyone seeking to understand biblical love, improve their relationships, grow in spiritual maturity, or discover how God's transforming love can change their interactions with others. Keywords: Christian love, biblical relationships, spiritual growth, marriage advice, church community, emotional maturity, forgiveness, patience, kindness, transformation, Valentine's Day, Saint Valentine, First Corinthians 13, discipleship, authentic faith.
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Proverbs 3 | Family Values: Faith & Hope
Send us Fan MailDiscover the incredible story of three young men who refused to compromise their faith when faced with an impossible choice in ancient Babylon. This powerful biblical account from the book of Daniel reveals how Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego stood firm against King Nebuchadnezzar's demand to worship a golden statue, even when it meant facing death in a fiery furnace. Learn about the difference between faith and hope, and how these Hebrew men demonstrated both when they declared that God was able to deliver them, but even if He didn't, they would not bow down. Their remarkable response shows us what it means to trust in God's power while refusing to presume upon His will. When thrown into the furnace, something miraculous happened - Jesus himself appeared in the flames with them, and they emerged completely unharmed without even the smell of smoke on their clothes. This story isn't just ancient history; it speaks directly to modern believers facing pressure to conform in their workplace, relationships, parenting, and personal convictions. Explore practical applications for standing strong in faith when the world demands compromise, including how to identify areas where you might be tempted to bow to modern golden images for security, acceptance, or success. Discover how the faith of a few can transform the culture of many, just as these three men's unwavering trust in God led to a decree protecting all believers throughout the Babylonian empire. Whether you're struggling with workplace pressures, relationship challenges, or cultural expectations that conflict with biblical values, this timeless story offers hope and practical wisdom for maintaining your faith when everything around you seems to be falling apart.
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Proverbs 25 & Judges 13 | Family Values: Self-Control
Send us Fan MailDiscover the powerful lessons about self-control from one of the Bible's most tragic figures - Samson. This biblical study explores what self-control really means and why it's essential for Christian living and personal growth. Learn how Samson's incredible God-given strength couldn't compensate for his lack of discipline and self-restraint.Self-control is more than willpower - it's righteous restraint over impulses, emotions, and desires, expressing them in the right way at the right time. The Bible describes a person without self-control as a city with broken walls, vulnerable to every attack and temptation. In our culture that promotes having it all and never saying no to desires, understanding biblical self-control becomes crucial for spiritual maturity and personal freedom.Samson lived during the time of Judges when everyone did what was right in their own eyes. Despite his calling as a Nazirite with supernatural strength to deliver Israel, his life demonstrates three dangerous patterns that destroy self-control: rejecting wise counsel, becoming easily manipulated, and hiding sins from others. His story shows how lack of self-control leads to slavery to our desires, hurting loved ones, and missing our God-given purpose.This biblical teaching reveals practical steps for developing self-control through spiritual disciplines, accountability relationships, and relying on the Holy Spirit's power rather than human willpower alone. Learn how to set up guardrails against temptation, seek wise counsel, and recognize self-control as a fruit of the Spirit essential for Christian growth.Whether you struggle with anger management, relationship boundaries, digital addiction, or other areas requiring discipline, Samson's story offers both warning and hope. Even in his final moments, God used Samson's life, showing that redemption is always possible through faith and surrender to God's will.Perfect for Bible study groups, personal devotions, or anyone seeking biblical wisdom about self-discipline, emotional regulation, and spiritual growth. Discover how true freedom comes through boundaries and how self-control leads to fulfilling your divine purpose.
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2 Corinthians 11 | Family Values: Courage
Send us Fan MailDiscover what it truly means to live with biblical courage in today's world. This powerful message explores how courage isn't just about heroic moments, but about righteousness refusing to retreat in everyday life. Learn the difference between acting from conviction versus responding out of fear, and how this transforms our relationships, decision-making, and spiritual growth. Explore five key areas where Christians need courage: navigating difficult relationships and conflict resolution, confronting sin with love and truth, facing danger and uncertainty with faith, overcoming anxiety and comparison culture, and embracing vulnerability in Christian community. Through the powerful example of the apostle Paul, discover how God's strength works through our weakness and why vulnerability is actually a display of divine power.This message addresses common struggles like fear of confrontation, anxiety about the unknown, relationship conflicts, and the pressure to appear perfect. Learn practical ways to apply biblical courage in daily life, from having difficult conversations to admitting mistakes, from seeking help to standing for truth even when unpopular. Key topics covered include: biblical definition of courage, overcoming fear in relationships, Christian conflict resolution, confronting sin with love, dealing with anxiety as a believer, vulnerability in Christian community, Paul's example of courage, God's power through weakness, practical courage in daily decisions, and spiritual growth through difficult circumstances.Whether you're struggling with fear in relationships, anxiety about the future, or the pressure to appear strong, this message offers biblical wisdom for living courageously. Discover how embracing weakness can actually demonstrate God's power and how authentic Christian community flourishes when we're honest about our struggles.Perfect for anyone seeking to grow in faith, overcome fear, improve relationships, or understand what biblical courage looks like in practical terms. This teaching combines theological depth with practical application, showing how ancient biblical principles apply to modern challenges like social media comparison, relationship conflicts, and personal struggles.
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Titus 2 | Family Values: Creating Moral Boundaries
Send us Fan MailAre you feeling swept away by today's cultural currents? This powerful message explores why moral boundaries matter more than ever in our modern world. Discover how unlimited personal freedom has created an anxious generation and why ancient wisdom still applies today.Learn about the biblical foundation for setting healthy boundaries in your life, family, and relationships. This teaching breaks down practical ways to resist destructive cultural trends while embracing godly values that lead to true fulfillment and peace.Key topics covered include:- Why cultural currents can be spiritually dangerous- The biblical meaning of ancient landmarks and moral boundaries- How God's grace teaches us to set healthy limits- Six values to reject: pride, unforgiveness, greed, lust, and more- Nine values to embrace: self-control, compassion, devotion, and others- Practical steps for families to swim against destructive currents- How to cling to Jesus as your unchanging foundationWhether you're struggling with cultural pressure, seeking to establish family values, or looking for biblical guidance on moral decision-making, this message provides clear, practical wisdom rooted in Scripture.Perfect for anyone interested in Christian living, biblical values, family guidance, moral boundaries, spiritual growth, cultural discernment, and practical faith application. Discover how to shine like a star in a dark world while staying anchored to timeless truth.Tags: Christian values, moral boundaries, biblical wisdom, cultural discernment, family values, spiritual growth, Christian living, biblical guidance, faith and culture, godly living, personal boundaries, spiritual boundaries, Christian parenting, biblical worldview, moral compass
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Proverbs 1 Family Values: Wisdom
Send us Fan MailDiscover the seven essential family values that create lasting character and wisdom in children. Learn why choosing convenience over character, seeking immediate gratification, and avoiding consequences prevents families from living wisely. This practical guide explores how reverence for God forms the foundation of all wisdom and decision-making. Parents will find actionable strategies for teaching children through difficult moments, protecting against negative influences, and building the crucial skill of delayed gratification. Understand why experiencing appropriate consequences while young prevents greater pain in adulthood and how to model wisdom through daily choices. Whether you're a parent, grandparent, or mentor, these biblical principles from Proverbs provide a roadmap for raising children with strong character. Topics include parenting strategies, child discipline, building family values, teaching wisdom to children, biblical parenting principles, character development, delayed gratification skills, protecting children from bad influences, and creating family traditions that last. Perfect for parents seeking practical wisdom for raising godly children, families wanting to establish strong values, and anyone interested in biblical approaches to character building and life wisdom.
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Proverbs 11 Family Values: Justice
Send us Fan MailDiscover what the Bible really says about justice, money, and integrity in daily life. This comprehensive exploration reveals why biblical justice goes far beyond legal fairness to encompass how we treat every person as made in God's image. Learn the two main reasons people choose injustice and how to overcome these temptations in business, relationships, and personal conduct.Explore biblical principles for honest business practices, including why God delights in integrity and warns against trusting in riches over righteousness. Understand the power of words and how to avoid common pitfalls like belittling others, gossip, and broken promises. Discover the three-part formula for proper apologies that can restore damaged relationships and teach accountability.Uncover the surprising connection between generosity and blessing, learning why giving freely often leads to greater abundance while hoarding brings spiritual poverty. Address practical questions about money management, business ethics, and resource stewardship during times of others' need.This biblical teaching addresses real-life applications for examining your heart and actions regarding money, speech, and motives. Learn how to practice integrity in small and large matters, teach accountability to children, and use resources to serve others rather than just yourself.Whether you're struggling with business ethics, relationship conflicts, or questions about generosity, this message provides biblical wisdom for living with integrity. Discover how Christ's transforming power enables genuine justice that flows from love rather than obligation, and find practical steps for growth in reflecting God's character in daily life.Perfect for anyone seeking biblical guidance on money, relationships, business ethics, generosity, forgiveness, and personal integrity.
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Isaiah 6: Respond to God's Call
Send us Fan MailDiscover how God calls ordinary people to extraordinary purposes through Isaiah's powerful encounter in the temple. This biblical story reveals the life-changing pattern of divine calling that applies to every believer today. Learn what happens when we truly see God's holiness and how His grace transforms our inadequacy into availability for service.Key topics covered include understanding God's holiness, recognizing our need for cleansing, experiencing divine forgiveness, and responding to God's call with obedience. Isaiah's transformation from crying woe is me to declaring here I am send me shows how God's presence prepares us for His service.This message addresses common struggles like feeling unqualified for God's work, dealing with imposter syndrome in ministry, and understanding that God calls the available rather than the perfect. Discover practical ways to make yourself more available to God including prayer, service opportunities, and simple acts of obedience.Perfect for anyone seeking to understand their purpose, respond to God's calling, or grow deeper in their faith journey. Whether you're a new believer or seasoned Christian, this biblical teaching will challenge and encourage you to step into God's plan for your life.Topics: God's calling, Isaiah 6, divine encounter, holiness of God, spiritual transformation, Christian service, biblical purpose, faith and obedience, new year spiritual goals, availability to God, grace and forgiveness, responding to God's voice, biblical prophecy, spiritual growth, Christian discipleship.
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Luke 1:5-37: Christmas Eve 2025
Send us Fan MailDiscover the powerful difference between doubt and faith through the contrasting stories of Zechariah and Mary in this inspiring Christmas message. Learn how past disappointments can create spiritual barriers that prevent us from receiving God's incredible promises and gifts. This biblical teaching explores the concept of spiritual Murphy's Law and how life's harsh realities can wear down our expectations, causing us to miss out on the joy God wants to give us.Dive deep into Luke chapter 1 as we examine Zechariah's struggle with unbelief when the angel Gabriel announced his wife would bear John the Baptist. Despite being a faithful priest who had prayed for years, Zechariah's response reveals how disappointment can harden our hearts against God's goodness. Compare this with Mary's beautiful demonstration of childlike faith when faced with an even more impossible promise - bearing the Messiah through virgin birth.This Christmas sermon addresses common struggles with faith, prayer, disappointment, and trusting God's promises. Perfect for anyone who has experienced spiritual doubt, unanswered prayers, or difficulty believing that God's plans are truly good. Learn practical steps for overcoming disappointment and developing Mary's kind of faith that says yes to God's impossible promises.Key topics covered include biblical faith, Christmas meaning, overcoming doubt, trusting God's promises, spiritual growth, prayer life, and finding hope in difficult circumstances. Whether you're struggling with unbelief or seeking to strengthen your faith, this message offers biblical wisdom and practical application for believing and receiving God's greatest gifts.Explore questions like: What prayers have you stopped praying? How has disappointment affected your trust in God? What would childlike faith look like in your current circumstances? Discover how the light of Christ can overcome any darkness in your life and why God's reality exceeds our highest expectations.
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Malachi 4: When God Brings Healing
Send us Fan MailDiscover how Christmas can be transformed from stress and performance anxiety into genuine healing and restoration through the powerful promises found in Malachi chapter 4. This biblical message explores God's promise of healing for broken hearts, damaged family relationships, and holiday disappointments. Learn the difference between fearing God in a healthy way versus being terrified of Him, and understand how the Sun of righteousness brings spiritual healing to our souls. Perfect for anyone struggling with Christmas stress, family trauma, or feeling overwhelmed by holiday expectations. Topics covered include biblical healing, Christmas hope, family restoration, overcoming holiday stress, spiritual renewal, God's promises, biblical encouragement, faith and healing, Christmas peace, and finding rest in God's love. Whether you're dealing with broken family relationships, financial stress during the holidays, or simply feeling burned out from trying to make Christmas perfect, this message offers practical hope and biblical wisdom. Explore how God wants to turn hearts toward each other and toward Him, bringing freedom from the pressure to perform and creating space for authentic worship and celebration. Discover the transformative power of acknowledging our need for God rather than trying to fix ourselves, and learn how Christmas can become a time of genuine restoration rather than exhausting performance.
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Malachi 3: Christmas Joy Despite Life's Pain
Send us Fan MailStruggling with life's unfairness this Christmas season? You're not alone. The same questions about God's justice, provision, and goodness that we wrestle with today were being asked 2,400 years ago by God's people in Malachi 3. This powerful biblical message explores how to find genuine joy and peace when circumstances feel overwhelming and unjust.Discover why God allows good people to suffer while evil seems to prosper, and learn about His promise of perfect justice through Christ, who comes like a refiner's fire. Explore the difference between human vigilante justice and God's perfect timing and perspective, using the example of David's relationship with King Saul. Understand biblical principles of giving and stewardship, including what the Old Testament tithe really involved and how God promises to provide for faithful givers.Learn about the remnant in Malachi who chose repentance over complaint, and how God wrote their names in His book of remembrance. This Christmas message connects these ancient struggles to modern life, showing how Jesus Christ is the ultimate answer to our questions about fairness, provision, and God's goodness.Perfect for anyone struggling with disappointment, financial stress, or questions about God's character during the holiday season. Whether you're dealing with family conflicts, economic hardship, or spiritual doubts, this biblical teaching offers hope and practical guidance for trusting God's perfect plan.Keywords: Christmas hope, biblical justice, God's provision, Malachi 3, trusting God, holiday struggles, biblical giving, spiritual encouragement, Old Testament wisdom, faith during hardship, Christmas message, biblical stewardship, God's faithfulness, spiritual growth, holiday devotional
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Malachi 2: Peace Be With You
Send us Fan MailDiscover powerful lessons about marriage, faithfulness, and covenant relationships from the book of Malachi. This biblical study explores why the Old Covenant was breaking down and what it reveals about human nature and our need for transformation. Learn about the historical context of post-exilic Israel, where economic hardship led to devastating compromises in marriage and faith. Understand why God takes divorce so seriously and what it means when Scripture says God hates divorce. Explore how marriage serves as a mirror that reveals our true character and exposes areas where we prioritize financial security over faithfulness to God. This message examines the corruption of the priesthood, the pattern of unfaithfulness that emerges when we rationalize compromise, and how brokenness in relationships points to our need for the New Covenant. Perfect for anyone struggling with marriage difficulties, seeking to understand biblical perspectives on divorce and remarriage, or wanting to grow in covenant faithfulness. Topics covered include biblical marriage principles, Old Testament history, covenant theology, faithfulness in relationships, trusting God's provision, dealing with economic pressure, and finding hope in Jesus as our perfect high priest. Whether you're married, single, divorced, or remarried, this study offers practical wisdom for building stronger relationships and deeper faith. Learn how to water your own grass instead of looking for greener pastures, examine your heart for areas of compromise, and discover the power of confession and community in bringing healing to broken relationships.
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Malachi 1: Does God Really Love Me?
Send us Fan MailAdvent 2025Struggling with doubt about God's love during difficult times? This powerful message from the book of Malachi addresses one of the most common spiritual struggles believers face. When circumstances don't meet our expectations, we often question God's character instead of examining our own hearts. Learn how the prophet Malachi confronted people experiencing a crisis of faith 400 years before Christ's birth, and discover timeless truths that apply to modern believers.Explore why we doubt God's love when facing job loss, illness, broken relationships, or unanswered prayers. Understand the difference between circumstantial faith and character-based faith. Discover how the Israelites made the same mistakes we make today, focusing on disappointments rather than God's faithfulness.This biblical teaching reveals how we dishonor God's name by giving Him our leftovers instead of our first fruits. Learn practical applications about prioritizing time with God, generous giving, consistent worship attendance, and obedience to His commands. Understand why God's correction is actually an expression of His love.Find encouragement in the ultimate proof of God's love: the cross of Jesus Christ. While we offer God our leftovers, He gave us His best through His Son. Discover how God's grace transforms us from the inside out and provides victory over persistent struggles.Perfect for anyone questioning God's love, struggling with disappointment, seeking spiritual growth, or wanting to understand Old Testament prophecy. This message offers hope, practical wisdom, and biblical truth for navigating difficult seasons while maintaining faith in God's unchanging character.
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Hebrews 13: Living Out Holiness
Send us Fan MailUnderstanding Biblical Holiness and Set-Apart Living for ChristiansDiscover what it truly means to live a holy life as a Christian in today's world. This comprehensive guide breaks down the biblical concept of holiness, showing how it's not about religious rules but about being set apart for God's purposes.Learn why we resist God's call to holiness and how to overcome common barriers like inconvenience, disappointment with failed leaders, and doubt about personal transformation. Explore three practical ways to live holy lives based on Hebrews 13: practicing radical hospitality, honoring marriage through biblical sexuality, and living with financial contentment.Key topics covered include:- Biblical definition of holiness and set-apart living- Overcoming resistance to holy living- Practical hospitality for Christians- God's design for marriage and sexuality- Financial contentment and stewardship- The role of grace in spiritual transformation- Following godly church leadership- Living as examples worth following- Parenting with humility and authenticityThis message addresses common struggles Christians face in areas like sexual purity, money management, relationships, and spiritual growth. Whether you're a new believer or have been walking with Christ for years, you'll find practical wisdom for living out your faith authentically.Perfect for anyone seeking to understand Christian living, biblical holiness, spiritual growth, marriage and family guidance, financial stewardship, church leadership principles, and practical faith application. This teaching provides clear, actionable steps for becoming the person God has called you to be while avoiding legalism and embracing grace-empowered transformation.
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Hebrews 12 Is God's Discipline Loving?
Send us Fan MailDiscover the life-changing truth about God's discipline and how it reveals His deep love for you. This powerful biblical teaching explores why we resist divine discipline and how understanding its true purpose can transform your relationship with God. Learn the difference between God's perfect discipline and human punishment, and discover how hardship can actually be evidence of your belonging to God's family. Explore key insights from Hebrews 12 about enduring hardship, avoiding bitterness, and pursuing holiness. Find out how God's discipline prepares you for an unshakeable kingdom and spiritual maturity. Perfect for Christians struggling with difficult circumstances, those questioning God's love during trials, or anyone seeking to understand biblical discipline. Topics covered include spiritual growth, Christian suffering, God's love, biblical discipline, spiritual training, overcoming hardship, Christian maturity, faith during trials, trusting God, spiritual development, biblical counseling, Christian encouragement, and finding purpose in pain. Whether you're facing personal challenges, seeking spiritual growth, or wanting to deepen your understanding of God's character, this teaching provides biblical wisdom and practical application for viewing life's difficulties through the lens of God's loving discipline.
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Hebrews 11 History to Destiny
Send us Fan MailDiscover the transformative power of living by faith through the inspiring examples in Hebrews 11. This biblical exploration reveals how faith goes beyond mere belief to become a call for courageous Christian living and spiritual growth. Learn from heroes like Noah, Abraham, Moses, and Rahab who trusted God's promises over their circumstances and accomplished the impossible through divine strength.Explore key biblical principles including trusting God's word over what we see, recognizing heaven's superiority to earthly comfort, and believing God can do the impossible. Understand how faith operates on divine logic rather than human reasoning, transforming ordinary people into mighty warriors for God's kingdom. Discover practical applications for modern Christian life, including prayer, giving, evangelism, and stepping out of comfort zones.This message addresses common struggles believers face when called to act in faith despite uncertain circumstances. Whether you're dealing with financial concerns, relationship challenges, career decisions, or spiritual growth, these timeless biblical truths provide guidance for courageous Christian living. Learn how God transforms stories from shame to honor and empowers believers to accomplish great things for His glory.Perfect for anyone seeking biblical encouragement, spiritual growth, faith building, or practical Christian living guidance. Discover your spiritual heritage as part of a long line of faithful men and women who stood against kingdoms, faced impossible odds, and chose obedience over compromise. Find inspiration to answer God's call to courageous faith in your own life and circumstances.
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Hebrews 10 Unshakeable Confidence
Send us Fan MailDiscover how to find unshakeable confidence in your Christian faith through the powerful teachings of Hebrews 10. This biblical exposition explores the difference between Old Testament sacrifices and Christ's perfect sacrifice, revealing why believers can approach God with complete assurance. Learn about penal substitutionary atonement and how Christ's work on the cross satisfies God's justice while demonstrating His love. Understand the three essential responses to Christ's sacrifice: drawing near to God, holding fast to hope, and encouraging fellow believers. Explore the three pillars of spiritual formation - God's Word, God's Spirit, and God's people - and discover what happens when any of these elements is missing from your spiritual life. This message addresses common struggles with sin, doubt, and isolation in the Christian walk, providing biblical solutions for maintaining confidence in Christ. Learn from examples of persecuted Christians worldwide who demonstrate extraordinary faith despite facing death threats and property loss. The teaching includes practical application questions to help evaluate your own spiritual confidence and commitment. Topics covered include biblical sacrifice, atonement theology, Christian community, spiritual growth, persecution, faith under trial, Old Testament shadows, New Testament fulfillment, Holy Spirit transformation, biblical hope, church attendance importance, accountability in faith, confession of sin, God's faithfulness, Christian persecution, spiritual formation, biblical community, faith and trials, Christian confidence, gospel assurance, and practical Christianity. Perfect for believers seeking to deepen their understanding of salvation assurance and grow in their relationship with God and fellow Christians.
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Hebrew 9 Jesus: The Better Sacrifice
Send us Fan MailHebrews 9: Discover why Jesus' sacrifice is superior to all religious rituals and how it transforms our relationship with God forever. This powerful message explores the fundamental difference between earning salvation through good works versus receiving it as a gift through faith in Christ.Learn about the Old Testament sacrificial system and why animal sacrifices had to be repeated year after year. Understand how the Day of Atonement worked and why even the high priest risked death when entering God's presence. Explore the limitations of religious rituals and why they could never permanently remove guilt or sin from the human heart.Discover how Jesus revolutionized everything by serving as both the perfect high priest and the ultimate sacrifice. Unlike earthly priests who had to purify themselves first, Jesus was sinless and entered heaven itself with his own blood. His once-for-all sacrifice secured eternal redemption, not just temporary covering of sins.This message addresses common struggles with guilt and shame, examining why people fall into ritual traps or modern alternatives to dealing with sin. Learn how Jesus blood purifies the conscience from dead works and offers genuine freedom from both religious performance and moral guilt.Explore Old Testament prophecies that predicted this transformation, including Zechariah's vision of the high priest Joshua receiving clean garments and God's promise to remove sin in a single day through His servant the Branch.Perfect for anyone questioning why Christianity emphasizes the cross, struggling with religious performance, dealing with guilt and shame, or seeking to understand the difference between works-based religion and grace-based faith. This biblical teaching on salvation, redemption, sacrifice, and grace will help you understand why Christians sing about the blood of Jesus and how His finished work on the cross provides complete forgiveness and peace with God.Key topics covered include salvation by faith, religious rituals versus relationship, Old Testament sacrificial system, Jesus as high priest, eternal redemption, cleansed conscience, and freedom from guilt and shame.
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Hebrews 8 Worship Under a Better Priest
Send us Fan MailDiscover the life-changing difference between God's covenant and human agreements in this powerful exploration of biblical covenants. Learn why the Old Covenant had to be replaced and how Jesus Christ established a better covenant that transforms lives from the inside out. This comprehensive study examines the three promises of the New Covenant: internal heart transformation, personal relationship with God, and complete forgiveness of sins. Understanding covenant theology is essential for every Christian seeking deeper faith and spiritual growth. Explore how Jesus serves as both High Priest and King, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies and shadows. Perfect for Bible study groups, new believers, and anyone wanting to understand the difference between religious duty and genuine relationship with God. Topics covered include total depravity, heart transformation, biblical forgiveness, Old Testament vs New Testament, covenant theology, Christian living, spiritual transformation, and practical faith application. Whether you're struggling with religious performance or seeking authentic Christian experience, this biblical teaching reveals how God's covenant brings freedom, joy, and lasting change. Learn to distinguish between holding onto religious shadows versus embracing the reality of Christ. Ideal for those studying Hebrews chapter 8, Jeremiah 31, covenant promises, and biblical theology. Discover practical ways to live in New Covenant freedom and experience God's transforming power in daily life.
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Hebrews 7:11-28 Worship the Perfect Priest
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Hebrews 6:13-7:10 Worship Beyond the Veil
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Unshaken: Psalm 63
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Unshaken: Psalm 42
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Unshaken: Psalm 27
Send us Fan MailThe world says confidence comes from success, image, or control—How’s that working for you? “Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord!”— Psalm 27:14
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09.7.25 Hebrews 5: A Guide to Worship
Send us Fan MailThis Sunday we dove into why maturity matters—because faith was never meant to stay stuck on milk. 🍼➡️🥩“Therefore let us leave the elementary doctrine of Christ and go on to maturity…”— Hebrews 6:1
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08.31.25 Hebrews 4: A Guide to Worship
Send us Fan MailLooking for someone who really understands you? Find out how Jesus not only gets you, but saves you. Hebrews 4:16 “Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need."
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08.24.25 Hebrews 4: A Guide to Worship
Send us Fan MailIs your soul at rest? Come and find out what true rest looks like. Hebrews 4:11: “Let us therefore strive to enter that rest, so that no one may fall by the same sort of disobedience.” (ESV)
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08.17.25 Hebrews 3: A Guide to Worship
Send us Fan MailIs your heart still soft toward Jesus? Hear the warning — and the hope — for those tempted to drift, doubt, or give up.
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08.10.25 Hebrews 2: A Guide to Worship
Send us Fan MailWhat would God do to save you? Listen & find out—it’s deeper and more personal than you think.
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08.03.25 Hebrews 1: A Guide to Worship
Send us Fan MailElder Westley DeShazer preaches on Hebrews 1.
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07.27.25 2 Corinthians 13: Blessed to Bless
Send us Fan MailElder Joel Franklin preaches on the last chapter of 2 Corinthians.
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07.20.25 2 Corinthians 12: Blessed to Bless
Send us Fan MailPastor Chris preaches on 2 Corinthians 12.
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07.13.25 2 Corinthians 11: Blessed to Bless
Send us Fan MailPastor Chris preaches on chapter 11 of 2 Corinthians.
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07.06.25 2 Corinthians 10: Blessed to Bless
Send us Fan MailElder Joel Franklin preaches on 2 Corinthians 10.
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06.29.25 2 Corinthians 9: Blessed to Bless
Send us Fan MailPastor Chris preaches on blessing through generosity through 2 Corinthians 9.
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06.22.25 2 Corinthians 8: Blessed to Bless
Send us Fan MailPastor Chris preaches on blessing through generosity in 2 Corinthians 8.
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06.15.25 2 Corinthians 7: Blessed to Bless
Send us Fan MailPastor Chris preaches on the blessing of clean hearts in 2 Corinthians 7.
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06.08.25 2 Corinthians 6: Blessed to Bless
Send us Fan MailPastor Holland preaches on 2 Corinthians 6.
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Wells Branch Community Church exists to: Love God. Love people. Make disciples. Pastor Chris Plekenpol is the primary communicator at Wells Branch Community Church. You can find the latest sermon here.
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Chris Plekenpol
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