Church Story

Most of us spend our lives trying to control things we were never meant to control. In studying Revelation 4, you’ll discover one of the Bible’s most powerful images: the throne room of heaven. John discovers that the center of the universe isn’t chaos, politics, fear, or even ourselves—it’s God. This message wrestles with anxiety, control, purpose, worship, and why so many people feel spiritually restless. If you’ve ever wondered whether there’s something bigger holding all of this together, this conversation is for you. VERSES // Revelation 4v1-11

What if busy faith leaves you missing what matters most? In this message from Revelation 3, you’ll confront a hard truth: it’s possible to look spiritually alive on the outside, busy, growing, serving; while something deeper is quietly fading. Jesus challenges the church that had a strong reputation but an empty heart, calling them to wake up before it’s too late. VERSES // Revelation 3v1-22

Jesus writes to two churches that look faithful on the outside but are quietly drifting on the inside. One is holding fast in the obvious moments but compromising in the daily ones. The other is tolerating what it knows it shouldn't. Both are trading something for comfort, belonging, and survival — and Jesus wants them to understand the gravity of that trade.   This week, we look at the letters to Pergamum and Thyatira and ask the question that runs through both: What are you willing to trade? SCRIPTURE: Revelation 2:12-29

What if the greatest threat to your faith isn’t failure, but slow, subtle compromise? This message is a wake-up call: you can be busy, disciplined, and doctrinally right… and still drift away from Jesus. If you’ve ever felt spiritually distant, worn down, or tempted to compromise, this message will challenge you to return to what matters most: a real, passionate relationship with Jesus and a faith that stands firm no matter the cost. VERSES // Revelation 2:1-11

What if the book of Revelation isn’t meant to confuse or scare you, but to strengthen you? In part one of a teaching series through The Book of Revelation, you’ll discover that it is a book about not just prophecy about the future, it’s a powerful reminder for right now. When life feels uncertain, painful, or out of control, you don’t need a smaller, more comfortable version of Jesus, we all need to see Him for who He truly is: sovereign, powerful, and present in the middle of it all. If your world feels shaken, this message will help you stand by giving you a bigger, truer vision of Jesus; the One who holds authority over everything, even death itself. VERSES // Revelation 1v1-20, John 12v23

There is one question you can’t avoid: What will you do with Jesus? In this message from Luke 23, you hear about five people who encountered Jesus in His final moments before the crucifixion. Each one responded differently, and their responses reveal something about us.   Some were distracted. Some were curious but unwilling to change. Some were prideful. One was guilty but set free. And one chose to follow. The question is the same today as it was then: What will you do with Jesus? This message walks you through how to move from uncertainty to full confidence, knowing for sure where you stand and what happens after this life. VERSES // Luke 23, Revelation 21, & Romans 3v23, 10v9-10

Smartphones promise connection—but often deliver isolation. In this message, Wes will confront how technology may be quietly pulling you away from real relationships and a relationship with God. Through a practical strategy—FIGHT— you’ll discover how to set boundaries, eliminate distractions, invite accountability, and choose presence over screens. If you’ve ever felt more connected online but more disconnected in real life, this message is for you. VERSES // Luke 19v39-44, 1 Corinthians 6v12, Nehemiah 4v13-14 

80% of people are addicted to their phones. So the real question is… are you one of them? In this message, you’ll confront one of the most overlooked addictions in our culture—our phones. From constant notifications to endless scrolling, technology is shaping our priorities, our relationships, and even our walk with God. The question is simple: Are you using your phone… or is your phone using you? This message will challenge you to break free, reset your mind, and rediscover what truly matters. VERSES // Romans 12v1-2, 1 Corinthians 6v12, Revelation 2v2-5, 1 Peter 5v8

What if the reason storms overwhelm us isn’t because God isn’t there, but because we only turn to Him when life starts falling apart? Life has a way of bringing unexpected storms like stress, anxiety, conflict, and moments when everything feels out of control. The truth is, a lot of us only reach for God when things go wrong. But faith isn’t something we build in the middle of the storm. It is something we build before it ever arrives. This message challenges us to stop treating God like the friend we only call when we need help and start walking with Him every day so we are ready for whatever life throws our way.

In 2 Samuel 9, David invites Mephibosheth, a forgotten and broken man, to sit at the kings table. Through the stories of Saul, Jonathan, David, and Mephibosheth, we see four different postures of the heart toward grace. The gospel reminds us of this truth: grace gave you a seat, and love grabs a seat for another.  VERSES // Exodus 25v23-30, 2 Samuel 9v1-12, 1 Samuel 18v3-4, 7

If you’re new to church, money talk can feel… gross. We get it. This message starts with a simple question: Why are we giving at all? Psalm 50 shows us God isn’t asking because He’s in need—He’s after our hearts, our worship, and our participation in something bigger than ourselves. Whether you’re ready to jump in or just checking things out, we’re glad you’re here. VERSES // Psalm 50v8-23, Romans 10v1-15, Malachi 3v10

Does God really bless generosity? Yes. But not the way you think. In this teaching, we confront the myths of prosperity preaching while embracing the truth of Scripture: God multiplies what we sow — financially, spiritually, eternally. The question isn’t “Should I give?” The question is “Do I trust Him?” VERSES // 2 Corinthians 9v6-15, Matthew 6v21

In Luke 19, you see a man who chased money, status, and control — and still came up empty. What he thought would be a glimpse turned into a life-altering encounter.  If you’ve ever felt spiritually restless… If you’ve built success but still feel empty… If you’re unsure whether Jesus would really want anything to do with you… This story is for you. VERSES // Luke 19v1-10

Have you ever felt bored in church… or like your faith has gone from “all in” to “just showing up”? In part one of The Next Chapter, you’ll hear about a generational, faith-filled next step for Church Story. One marked by sacrifice, God’s glory, prayer, and a future bigger than today. Together, we’re asking God to do what only He can do—because He is able to do far more abundantly beyond all we ask or think (Ephesians 3:20). VERSES // Ephesians 3:1-21

Dating today is confusing, exhausting, and often shaped more by culture than conviction. In Part 3 of Relationship Refresh, you’ll discover timeless wisdom for dating in a culture that has made it incredibly complicated. Whether you’re single, dating, married, or supporting others who are, this message offers clarity, hope, and a better foundation for relationships that last. VERSES // Genesis 24v1-21

Most relationships don’t fall apart overnight—they break down slowly through ignored warning signs. In this part two of Relationship Refresh, you learn how to expose two dangerous dynamics that quietly destroy relationships: passivity and control. Whether you’re dating, married, or single, you’ll learn how to recognize unhealthy patterns, why they matter, and how turning your heart back to God can bring healing, clarity, and hope—no matter where you are today. VERSES // 1 Kings 21

Why do we keep repeating the same cycles in our relationships with those closest to us—even when we desperately want change? In John 5, Jesus asks a man who had been stuck for 38 years a confronting question: “Do you want to get well?” This message challenges the lies we believe, the excuses we cling to, and the patterns that quietly keep us stuck. Healing is possible—but it often requires movement, honesty, and a willingness to do something different. If you’re ready to stop repeating the past and step into real freedom, this message is for you. VERSES // John 5v1-9, Romans 12v2

Christmas Eve Message At Church Story with Pastor Wes Jackson

What if Christmas isn’t just a season—but the greatest love story ever told? The most famous love stories often end in loss, separation, or death. The Christmas story is different. It doesn’t begin with “once upon a time”—it begins with “For God so loved the world.” And unlike every other love story, this one doesn’t end at the grave. In this message, you’ll hear how the arrival of Jesus reveals the unconditional, sacrificial love of God—a love that existed before time began, entered our broken world, and continues to pursue us today. Christmas boldly answers one of our deepest questions: Does God really love me? The answer is a resounding YES! VERSES // 1 John 4v7-21; Galatians 4v4-5; John 3v16-17; Isaiah 9v6

What do you do when life doesn’t turn out the way you hoped—especially during the Christmas season?    In this Advent message, we’ll look at the arrival of Jesus and the good news of great joy announced to ordinary shepherds in the middle of unmet expectations, uncertainty, and hardship. Christmas reminds us that joy isn’t found in perfect circumstances—it’s found in the presence of a Savior who chose to step into our mess. Whether you’re carrying disappointment, grief, anxiety, or exhaustion, this message explores how joy is more than an emotion—it’s a choice, rooted in the good news of what God has done for us in Christ. If life feels like it’s falling apart, this message is for you. VERSES // Luke 2v8-20, Acts 2v2, Acts 9v3, 2 Corinthians 7v4, Colossians 1v24, James 1v2, Philippians 3v8, Hebrews 12v2

In a season covered in the word peace, many of us feel anything but peaceful. Anxiety, pressure, fear, and the weight of the world can overwhelm the soul. But Jesus, the Prince of Peace, promises a peace the world can’t give and the world can’t take away. In week two of Advent, Wes Jackson unpacks why peace feels so elusive, and how surrender—not control—is the surprising pathway to a restful soul. If you’re anxious, overwhelmed, or longing for peace, this message is for you. VERSES // John 14v27; Luke 2v14; Isaiah 9v6; 2 Corinthians 5v21; Isaiah 26v3; Proverbs 3v5-6; Philippians 4v6-9

In this Advent message, we explore how hope isn’t something we wait to feel; it is Someone who has already come near. When life feels delayed, heavy, or uncertain, Advent reminds us that Jesus steps directly into the places that seem hopeless. We look at how His arrival in a broken world reveals God’s timing, presence, and promise. And we discover that because Jesus came once, hope is already breaking in right now, and one day, Jesus will return to make all things new.

What if the frustration you’re feeling is the very thing God is using to form something valuable in you? In part nine of Grit & Grace, you will discover why patience isn’t passive—it’s endurance. It’s the middle space between desire and fulfillment where God does His deepest work. VERSES // James 5v7-20

Are you a planner? How do you respond when your plans change unexpectedly? In part eight of Grit & Grace, a study through the book of James, you find out how to live with a healthy perspective toward plans for your future, with emphasis on your wealth. VERSES // James 4v13-5v6

A practical message from James 4 on overcoming conflict, pride, and division by choosing humility and God’s way of peace. VERSES // James 4:1-12

Words have power—to build or to destroy. James 3 warns that the tongue, though small, can set the direction for your whole life. Discover how to take control of your words before they take control of you. SCRIPTURE // James 3v1-18, Matthew 12v34, Matthew 15v19   YOUR WORDS ARE POWERFUL. With great power comes great responsibility YOUR WORDS ARE PROBLEMATIC. One small word at the wrong time can be incredibly dangerous Words bring wounds Though small, your words hold the power of life and death. Wild animals can be tamed by humans, yet your tongue cannot. Try this test for the next seven days: Do not complain. Do not boast. Do not gossip. Do not criticize. Do not defend or excuse yourself. Always affirm. YOUR WORDS ARE PRODUCED BY YOUR HEART. Our tongue problem is a heart problem. If you want to change your words, change your heart. Practical Next Steps: BE SLOW TO SPEAK Before speaking, ask yourself: Is it true? Is it helpful? Is it inspiring? Is it necessary? Is it kind? BE QUICK TO SAY, “I’M SORRY” SHARE LIFE-GIVING WORDS Challenge: Choose one person in your life and speak encouragement every day for the next seven days. Use a text message, a phone call, email, or hand-written note. RECEIVE PEACE

*DUE TO COPYRIGHT, THE SONG PLAYED AT THE BEGINNING OF THE MESSAGE IS NOT INCLUDED. FOR REFERENCE, LISTEN TO THE FIRST 30 SECONDS OF "Love And Marriage" by Frank Sinatra. Many people wonder if they’re “good enough” to get into heaven. Have you ever wondered deep down, “Am I really right with God? How can I know for sure?” In part five of Grit & Grace, Wes Jackson shares clear and hopeful answers from the Book of James. VERSES // James 2v14-26; 1 John 3v17-18; Romans 3v28

Why do we honor those with power, status, and wealth while simultaneously overlooking those God Himself calls valuable? In part four of Grit & Grace, we’re reminded that favoritism has no place in the family of God because our worth isn’t determined by appearance or status, but by the Creator. We are challenged to see people the way God sees them and to live out a faith marked by mercy over judgment. VERSES // James 2v1-13 Teaching Notes: Faith without favoritism is faith that loves like Jesus. When we’re not taking our identity from God, we create arbitrary identities. Whose approval matters? Our value comes from God, who made us in His image. Do we see people the way Jesus does? Response:   Consider these questions: Who are you tempted to overlook? Where might you be showing favoritism without realizing it? How can you intentionally show mercy this week to someone with nothing to offer you?

Faith isn’t proven by what you hear—it’s shown by what you do. In part three of Grit & Grace, you’ll discover what it looks like to move from only listening to experiencing a transformation from the inside out as you allow God’s Word to influence your actions. VERSES // James 1v18-27; Jeremiah 31v31-33; Ezekiel 36v24-27; Matthew 7v21; 1 John 2v4 NOTES: Three Christian responses to God’s Word: LISTEN HUMBLY Hurry up and listen → Keep listening → Let your defenses down The goal is not to get around God’s Word; the goal is to receive it. LOOK CONTINUALLY What value do I place on God’s Word? Allow God’s Word to saturate your life. Listening to God’s Word - Applying God’s Word = Worthless Religion Hearing followed by not doing leads to a deceived heart and a worthless faith. LIVE WHOLEHEARTEDLY I don’t obey to earn my way to heaven; I obey because Heaven is in my heart. Read your Bible, do what it says. Prayer: God what area of my life have you been telling me to obey, to do this and I’ve not done it? Application Step: Write out specific action steps for how you’re going to obey starting today.

Trials will test you, but temptation can trap you. In part two of Grit & Grace, you’ll be discover the source of temptation and how to resist the broken desires that often leave us feeling stuck, defeated, and overwhelmed with regret. When temptation shows up, your faith will help you stand. VERSES: James 1v12-18, Romans 8v1, Colossians 2v6, 1 John 1v9, Galatians 2v20 TEACHING NOTES: Blessed - A thriving life from the inside out. Agency - The ability to control and influence your own thoughts and behavior in a situation. Your trials don’t have to lead your response. When there’s temptation, there’s always a way out. YOUR TEMPTATION NEVER COMES FROM GOD (vs. 13) TEMPTATION IS ROOTED IN OUR OWN DESIRES (vs. 14-15) The progression of sin: My Desire → Birth of Sin → Grows into Death When desire gives birth to sin, we’ve opened the door and welcome death to come in and take up residence. The longer sin grows, the harder it is to kill. “Habits, like trees, are strengthened by age. A boy may bend an oak when it is a sapling, but a hundred men cannot root it up when it is a full-grown tree.” J.C. Ryle Until you own the responsibility for your temptation, you’ll never live in freedom from it. You don’t find freedom from confessing the sins of other people. God’s Response: His Will → New Life → New Hope TEMPTATION IS OVERCOME BY THE GOODNESS OF GOD (vs. 17-18) You will only trust God’s path out of temptation to the degree that you know He loves you. You must let the gospel that saves you also sustain you.

The Book of James serves as a wake-up call, challenging us to live with real faith, even in the face of disappointment and chaos. If your faith feels lost or defeated as you see what’s happening in the world, part one of Grit & Grace will help restore a resilient faith for your most difficult days. VERSES // James 1v1-12; Mark 3v20-21; John 7v2-5; 1 Corinthians 15v3-8 TEACHING NOTES: The gap between what you believe and what you do is who you become. Your identity shapes your activity. Trials produce five things in us when we trust God: TRIALS BUILD ENDURANCE. (vs. 2) God will allow trials, not to wreck you, but to build something stronger in you. TRIALS BUILD MATURITY. (vs. 4) God’s goal in your life is more of Him. Trials are joy when God is the goal. Trials are a crossroad where you can choose to go further toward God or backwards into unbelief. The work God is doing in you is greater than the God working out a solution to your problem now. Tests reveal gaps in your understanding that lead to opportunities that deepen your knowledge. God will often take you beyond yourself to expose deficiency. TRIALS BRING WISDOM (vs. 5-8) Three factors for wisdom – Knowledge, Perspective, & Experience God has all knowledge, total perspective, and infinite experience. When life is overwhelming, you can get bitter or you can come with humility. Humility is the way to clarity. TRIALS BRING SATISFACTION & SECURITY (vs. 9-11) Don’t attach your soul to something that fades. In pain, things that were so important, quickly become less important. TRIALS BRING LIFE (vs. 12) God has promised life forever which shapes a new perspective. In your trials, anchor your confidence in something greater. Like James, take on the identity of Jesus and experience his transformation from the inside out.

When life feels heavy, what do you reach for first? We keep chasing more and more stuff, more comfort, more escape, yet it never seems to satisfy. In this message, we’ll explore why more is never enough and how prioritizing God’s values can transform everything. VERSES // Haggai 1v2-9, 1 John 2v15-17, John 3v16, Matthew 6v24, Philippians 3v18-20

Apathy is dangerous—it slowly breaks down the life God designed for you. In part six of The Good Life, discover how to move beyond the spiritual numbness you may be experiencing and reignite a passion in your faith. VERSES // 1 Timothy 4v7-8, Ephesians 4v1-16, Psalm 1v1-4

Entitlement promises happiness but leaves you empty. Learn how to replace “I deserve” with something better. VERSES // Luke 14v7-14, Philippians 2v3-11

Anger is real—but it doesn’t have to rule your life. In part four of The Good Life, discover what anger does to us and how you can live free from it. VERSES // Ephesians 4v22-32; Romans 12v17-21

Words matter. They can heal or they can hurt. Have you ever stopped to think about the impact of what you say—or even what you listen to? Gossip often slips in quietly, but its damage runs deep. In part three of The Good Life, learn how to stop gossip before it starts and live with words that build, not break. VERSES // Matthew 12v33-37; Romans 1v28-32, Proverbs 18v8, 18v21, 16v28, 25v9-10, 26v20, 15v4, 20v19, 27v5; Genesis 3v4-5; John 17v20-23;

A perfect relationship. A perfect family. A perfect career. When we see others who have what we want, our lives seem lacking. But you’ll never be content on the inside if you’re always looking at what other people have on the outside. In part two of The Good Life, Wes Jackson shares how to find the cure for comparison VERSES // Ecclesiastes 4v4-8; John 20v2-10, 21v2-7, 18-23; Hebrews 12v1-2

Sometimes it feels like nothing is working. We can try to keep up and check all the boxes, but life seems to stay the same. How can we find the life we’re longing for? In part one of The Good Life, you’ll discover how busyness may be robbing you of the life God intended for you. VERSES // Luke 10v30-42, Matthew 11v28-30

In this message, we explore why the Bible is trustworthy, looking at its historical reliability, archaeological evidence, fulfilled prophecy, and remarkable unity across 66 books and 1600 years. You'll see that faith in Scripture is not blind, but grounded in compelling reasons to believe it truly is God’s inspired Word. Ultimately, we’re invited not just to know about the Bible, but to taste and see for ourselves that it is good.

Have you ever wondered why a good God allows pain, suffering, and tragedy? It’s one of the most honest and toughest questions asked about faith and the character of God. Whether you're struggling with doubt or searching for deeper understanding, this message offers biblical insight, real-life perspective, and the promise of God's presence even in the darkest moments. VERSES: John 9v1-12, 25; Romans 8v20-30

In this message, we explore how our daily choices shape who we are, what we do, and where we go. Examining the stories of Jonah and the fiery furnace in Daniel 3, we observe the distinction between choosing our own way, which often leads to chaos, and choosing to trust God regardless of the circumstances. Whether you're a child, a teenager, or an adult, this message challenges us all to make decisions that honor God, knowing that He’s with us even in the fire.

Who is the Holy Spirit and what does He do? These are questions you’ve probably wondered about but maybe felt strange asking. In part eight of Big Questions, you better understand a relationship with the Holy Spirit. Verses: John 14v16-26, Acts 2v1-15

Strong opinions, personal preferences, political agendas, doctrinal differences, grey areas, and broken leadership can lead to significant division in the church. In extreme cases, that division can lead to negative impacts on a community. Why does this happen, and how can you avoid it? Learn more in week seven of Big Questions. VERSES: Acts 15v1-31, James 1v26

In an age when cynicism, skeptism, and sarcasm is most common, you may have wondered, why does the church want your money. In part six of Big Questions, you’ll discover that the church doesn’t want your money. It certainly seems that way sometimes, but what if there’s something even more valuable for you, rather than the church? VERSES: Proverbs 3v5-10, Colossians 1v15-20, Matthew 15v8, Matthew 6v19-21, 1 John 2v3-5, Malachi 3v10

When was the last time you thought about the end of the world? The rapture? Life in the end times? There are so many questions around this, more than can be answered in one setting. But, in part six of Big Questions, you’ll find answers to the questions you may have wrestled with for years and how to live in light of answers Jesus points out in the Bible. SCRIPTURE: Mark 13v1-37

Ever wondered why Christians eat bread and drink wine or grape juice from a cup during worship services? It’s a common practice, but it often leaves many unsure of exactly the purpose. In part three of Big Questions, you’ll discover why taking communion or the Lord’s Supper is important for growing your faith. VERSES: 1 Corinthians 11v17-34, John 3v16, Romans 10v10, Galatians 2v21

Do I have to bow my head and close my eyes? What if I don’t say “amen” at the end? Why didn’t God answer my prayer? Does it mean you did something wrong, or that God doesn’t care to listen to me? If questions like these leave you feeling stuck in your faith, then part two of Big Questions may provide the answers you’ve been looking for. SCRIPTURE: Luke 11v1, 5-11; 18v1-5

Have you ever had a question about what you’ve always believed but were afraid to ask it out loud? Or a thought that didn’t make sense but you didn’t feel like you could mention it—especially at church? Maybe it’s time to ask the unspoken questions in a new teaching series, Big Questions, and find answers that take your faith deeper. In part one, find answers to questions around the importance of baptism.   SCRIPTURE: Acts 2v5-41, Matthew 28v18-20

There are times when you may experience a crisis of faith where what you’ve always believed to be true intersects with what you’re experiencing in life. In this message from Easter Sunday, you’ll see how Jesus meets you in your doubt and the healing that takes place when you trust Him. SCRIPTURE: John 20v19-29, Romans 10v9, Mark 5v1-20