Convergence Church Podcast

Have you ever felt like the culture is throwing a massive "drunk-fest" using the very things God calls holy, completely oblivious to the fact that the clock is seconds away from striking midnight?In this message on Daniel 5:1–31, Michael Rowntree explores the final hours of the Babylonian Empire, where King Belshazzar commits the ultimate act of defiance: turning the sacred vessels of God’s temple into "red Solo cups" for a blasphemous party. Rowntree shows how God interrupts this "flex of royal power" not with a blazing fireworks show, but with a single, terrifying finger writing a verdict on the palace plaster. This sermon warns that while we might ignore the "inherited revelation" of those who came before us—the stories of God's work in history—God holds us accountable for the light we’ve been given, reminding us that every empire is ultimately numbered, weighed, and found wanting. Yet, he reminds us that God’s prophet outlasts every tyrant. While Belshazzar offers Daniel "third place" in a kingdom that won't survive the night—a tragic comedy of worldly promotion—Daniel remains a witness to the only Kingdom that is truly eternal. This invites us to stop using our "borrowed breath" to praise breathless idols and instead honor the God in whose hand is our very life and all our ways.

What if your greatest success is actually your greatest spiritual danger? We live in a culture that idolizes the "self-made" person, but Daniel 4 reveals a terrifying truth: when we forget who truly holds the power, we don't just lose our way—we lose our humanity.Nebuchadnezzar’s story is the ultimate case study in the sovereignty of God and the total depravity of the human heart. In this message, Michael Rowntree explores how pride isn't just a character flaw; it’s a form of spiritual "insanity" that only breaks when we look up. Discover why God’s judgment is often His most merciful tool for restoration and why the "Most High" truly rules over the kingdoms of men, deposing tyrants and raising up the humble according to His will.

Have you ever felt that modern Christianity has become so "sensitive" to the culture that it has lost its ability to speak clearly about the things that actually destroy us? In this message on Ephesians 5:2–6, Sam Storms contrasts the "seeker-sensitive" movement of the last 40 years—which often removed crosses and "offensive" religious language—with the blunt, uncompromising approach of the Apostle Paul . He argues that Paul doesn't offer "helpful hints for happy living" but instead issues a stark warning against sexual immorality, impurity, and covetousness. Storms particularly highlights that greed is not just a social flaw but a form of "idolatry," where we replace the all-consuming joy of God with "trinkets and toys" that can never satisfy.Yet, he reminds us that our "walk" is not powered by the fear of wrath alone, but by the reality of being "dearly loved children". Because Christ gave himself up for us as a "fragrant offering and sacrifice to God," our motivation to walk in purity is a response to the sweet-smelling aroma of His grace. This invites us to see holiness not as a religious burden, but as the natural way of life for those who have found their deepest satisfaction in God rather than the world.

Have you ever felt like the "heat" in your life has been turned up to an impossible degree—where the pressure to conform is no longer just a suggestion, but a life-threatening demand? In this message on Daniel 3:19–30, Michael Rowntree explores the dramatic confrontation between the "Kingdom of Man" and the "Kingdom of God" inside Nebuchadnezzar’s fiery furnace. He points out the deep irony that while the King demanded everyone worship a golden image, his own "image"—his face—was distorted and deformed by a fury he could not control. This sermon reveals that while empires may posture with "exaggerated" power and overheated furnaces, they ultimately devour their own, while God’s servants find true liberation in the very place designed for their destruction.Yet, the most powerful truth Rowntree highlights is that God did not save Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego from the fire, but through it. By walking with them in the midst of the flames, the "fourth man" (whom many identify as the pre-incarnate Christ) demonstrates that God’s presence is the ultimate vindication. This provides a lasting pattern for those living in the "latter days": we serve, we suffer, and we trust, knowing that the King who walks with us in the fire will eventually walk us out into public promotion.

Have you ever wondered why God chooses to use such "unlikely" people—the broken, the doubting, and the overlooked—to carry out the most important mission in human history?In this message on Matthew 28:16-20, Michael Rowntree explores the climax of Matthew’s Gospel, where the risen Jesus regathers his "Varsity squad" of eleven disciples—a number that serves as a stinging reminder of Judas’ betrayal. Rowntree points out that Jesus deliberately bypassed the religious center of Jerusalem to launch his global kingdom from "Galilee of the Gentiles," a backwoods border region often viewed with disdain by the religious elite. By appearing first to women (whose testimony was legally disregarded at the time) and commissioning a group that was still struggling with doubt, Jesus demonstrates that his kingdom is built on the strength of the Savior, not the perfection of his followers.

Have you ever felt the crushing weight of trying to "be good enough" for God, only to realize you’ve been living the Christian life backward? In this message on Ephesians 4:25–5:1, Sam Storms unpacks the "grammar of the Gospel," explaining that the entire Christian life is built on the relationship between the indicative (the statement of fact regarding what God has done) and the imperative (the command for how we should act) . He warns that reversing this order—trying to "do" in order to be "loved" or saved—is a dangerous mistake that leads to a legalistic, miserable life .Yet, he reminds us that because we are already declared righteous in Christ, we are empowered to wear the "eight jewels" of Christian living. From speaking the truth and managing anger to radically forgiving others as Christ forgave us, these virtues are the natural fruit of a life grounded in the "indicative" of God's prior mercy .

Have you ever felt the subtle but immense pressure to synchronize your life with the "rhythms" of the culture—where every trend, anthem, and social expectation feels like a mandatory invitation to bow down? In this message, "When the State Becomes God," Michael Rowntree unpacks how King Nebuchadnezzar "doubled down" on human pride by taking the revelation of God from Daniel 2 and twisting it to "absolutize" his own power. Instead of accepting that his kingdom was temporary, he built a ninety-foot golden monument on the plain of Dura, effectively resurrecting the spirit of the Tower of Babel. Rowntree shows that the "Kingdom of Man" does not just pass laws; it "liturgizes" worship, using a vast administrative machine and a Babylonian orchestra to capture the hearts and consciences of every "people, nation, and language".Yet, he reminds us that God’s Kingdom is not manufactured by human effort, nor is its worship coerced by the threat of a furnace. Through the quiet but immovable resistance of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, we see a faith that is not based on guaranteed outcomes, but on an unshakeable allegiance to God’s character. This invites us to live with "even if He doesn't" confidence, knowing that our God is able to deliver us, but even if He allows the fire, our hearts already belong to the King whose dominion is the only one that will never pass away.

Have you ever felt that the political systems and global powers of this world are permanent and invincible, leaving you wondering where God’s authority fits in a world that seems to worship its own strength? In this message on Daniel 2:31–49, Michael Rowntree unpacks King Nebuchadnezzar's dream of a colossal, terrifying statue made of gold, silver, bronze, and iron-mixed-with-clay . He explains that this statue represents the "kingdom of man"—a sequence of human empires that glitter with power but are fundamentally fragile because their foundations are built on "feet of clay." Yet, he reminds us that there is a divine interruption: a stone "cut out by no human hand" that smashes the statue and grows into a mountain filling the entire earth. Rowntree identifies this stone as Jesus Christ, who inaugurated God’s indestructible kingdom during the Roman Empire, proving that while human empires regress in value and splendor, God’s kingdom is the only one destined to stand forever.

Have you ever felt like a pawn in a game you didn't choose, living at the mercy of powerful leaders or chaotic events that seem completely out of your control?In this message on Daniel 2:1–30, Michael Rowntree unpacks the crisis of King Nebuchadnezzar’s forgotten dream, showing that the most sophisticated human wisdom is utterly bankrupt when faced with the deep mysteries of life and death. He explores the "impossible" demand of the king—not just to interpret the dream, but to describe it—which exposes the magicians and "wise men" as frauds who have no real connection to the divine.Yet, he reminds us that there is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries and whose voice alone governs the rise and fall of nations. This invites us to respond to pressure not with panic, but with "mercy-seeking" prayer, trusting that the God who "changes times and seasons" is the same God who gives wisdom to His children in their darkest hour.

Have you ever encountered someone who insists that God’s grace is "nice but not needed"—someone who believes they are a "decent person" and doing just fine without the gospel?In this message on Ephesians 4:17–24, Sam Storms unpacks what he calls the most graphic portrayal in Scripture of the unregenerate mind. He shows that the brokenness we see in the world—from cultural revolutions to historical atrocities—is not merely the result of intellectual mistakes or poor environments . Instead, Paul provides a "downward spiral" diagnosis, revealing that the root of all human rebellion is a "hardness of heart" that leads to a darkened understanding and a life alienated from God .Yet, he reminds us that for the believer, the old self is "earmarked for demolition". Because we have "learned Christ," we are called to a radical identity shift: putting off the old, corrupt way of life and being renewed by the Holy Spirit to "put on" the new self—a self already created by God to reflect His own righteousness and holiness. This invites us to stop imitating a world in darkness and instead live out the reality of the new identity we have already received in Jesus.

Have you ever felt the subtle, persistent pressure of a culture trying to squeeze you into its mold—reshaping your values, your language, and even your very identity?In this message on Daniel 1:1–21, Michael Rowntree unpacks the "lived wisdom" of four teenagers in exile, showing that we live in the midst of a "beastly" empire that uses assimilation and identity reformation to demand our ultimate allegiance. He explains how Daniel and his friends navigated this pressure by yielding where possible—accepting new names and a pagan education—while drawing a firm, quiet line at the king’s table to remain ritually clean and faithful to Yahweh.Yet, he reminds us that behind the machinery of human empires is the God who "gives". From handing over Jerusalem in judgment to granting favor, wisdom, and superior skill to His exiles, God remains the true sovereign who governs every outcome. This invites us to live with confidence rather than panic, knowing that when we prioritize God’s kingdom, He sustains us and grants a wisdom that far outshines the most sophisticated systems of our age.

Have you ever wondered if anything you do actually matters in the long run, or if we are all just "a swarm of mosquitos" that live and die forgotten?In this message on Ecclesiastes 12:9–14, Michael Rowntree unpacks Solomon’s concluding summary of his investigation into vanity, showing that while life "under the sun" can feel like a cycle of futility, God’s wisdom provides a "zoom out" perspective that anchors us. He explains that wisdom is not a hidden cosmic secret but words of truth given by "one Shepherd" to "goad" us onto the right path and "nail" truth into our hearts. Yet, he reminds us that the "whole duty of man" is not found in an exhausting, never-ending chase for worldly knowledge, but in the simple, profound call to "fear God and keep His commandments". This invites us to live joyfully and intentionally, knowing that every deed—even the secret ones—is eternally significant because God remembers and will bring everything into judgment

Have you ever looked at your church leaders and thought, "That's their job, not mine," when it comes to the work of the ministry?In this second part of his message on Ephesians 4:11–16, Sam Storms unpacks the divine strategy for church growth, showing that the "work of ministry" is actually a biblical command for every single believer. He clarifies that God gave apostles, prophets, evangelists, shepherds, and teachers not to perform all the tasks of the church, but to equip the saints to do the heavy lifting of building up the body.Yet, he reminds us that the church only functions as God intended when "every working part" is active. This invites us to move from being passive spectators to active participants, using our unique spiritual gifts to ensure the church is no longer "tossed to and fro" by false doctrine, but instead grows into a mature, stable, and loving reflection of Jesus Christ.

Have you ever tried to ignore the reality of aging and death, hoping that if you just stay busy enough, the "good times" will never have to end?In this message on Ecclesiastes 11:7–12:8, Michael Rowntree unpacks Solomon’s "red pill" of wisdom for the next generation, showing that while youth and vigor are beautiful, they are also fleeting "vanity" that must be lived with the end in mind. He challenges us to look squarely at the "days of darkness" that are coming, refusing to live in the typical denial of our own mortality.Yet, he reminds us that the secret to a life well-lived is to "Remember your Creator" while you still have the strength to serve Him. This invites us to rejoice in the light of life and the energy of youth, but to do so under the sovereign eye of God—honoring our Maker before the silver cord is snapped and death "unmakes" the beauty of our earthly frames.

Have you ever tried to find "good" in a painful situation, only to feel like the promise of Romans 8:28 was ringing hollow or felt out of reach?In this message on Romans 8:28, Sam Storms unpacks one of the most beloved yet misunderstood verses in the Bible, showing that the "good" God promises is not always our immediate comfort or circumstantial ease. Instead, he explains that this promise is specifically for those who cherish God with deep affection above all else, recognizing Him as their supreme treasure.Yet, he reminds us that God’s ultimate design is far grander than our temporary happiness; His goal is to bring us safely to eternity and to conform us to the image of His Son. This invites us to rest in the sovereignty of a God who uses every trial and every triumph to make us like Jesus, ensuring that in our transformation, He receives the ultimate glory.

Have you ever felt paralyzed by the "what-ifs" of life—waiting for the perfect conditions before you finally take a step of faith? In this message on Ecclesiastes 11:1–6, Michael Rowntree unpacks Solomon’s call to bold action in the face of uncertainty, showing that while we cannot control the future or predict disaster, we are still called to "cast our bread" and diversify our efforts. Yet, he reminds us that true security isn't found in a perfect plan, but in a sovereign God who governs the "wind and the clouds." This invites us to trade our paralysis for purposeful labor, trusting that God can bring success out of our risks even when we don't know which one will prosper.

Have you ever spent years building something—a reputation, a career, or a legacy—only to watch one small, foolish mistake spoil the whole "fragrance"? In this message on Ecclesiastes 10:1–20, Michael Rowntree unpacks Solomon’s observations of wisdom and folly in both the palace and the workplace, showing that wisdom is incredibly valuable yet remarkably vulnerable to the "dead flies" of sin and bad leadership. Yet, he reminds us that true stability is found in cultivating a heart that "inclines toward the right," training ourselves to lean into righteousness rather than the quick fix of folly. This invites us to navigate a disordered world with pragmatism, guarding our tongues in times of crisis and receiving every meal, every glass joy, and every day of work as a blessing from God’s hand.

Have you ever felt like a spectator in your own church, wondering if your presence actually makes a difference in the kingdom of God?In this message on Ephesians 4:7–16, Sam Storms unpacks the divine blueprint for a healthy church, showing that the "work of ministry" is not a job for a few professional clergy members, but a calling for every single believer. He explains that there is no such thing as a "non-gifted" Christian, as Christ has personally distributed grace to each person for the building up of the body.Yet, he reminds us that our ultimate goal is "mature manhood," a state of spiritual stability where we are no longer easily swayed by false doctrine. This invites us to move beyond spiritual infancy by speaking the truth in love and actively using our unique gifts to help the whole body grow into the likeness of Christ.

Have you ever felt like your prayer life was more of a duty than a delight—or simply found yourself too distracted to stay consistent?In this message on Colossians 4:2–4, Michael Rowntree unpacks Paul’s instructions for a resilient prayer life, showing that a lack of vigilance and gratitude often leaves our spiritual lives vulnerable to the "tests" of life.Yet, he reminds us that powerful prayer is found in being "watchful" and "thankful," inviting us to move beyond a wandering mind and into a focused, mission-minded conversation with God. This message calls us to persevere in prayer, not just for our own needs, but for the open doors and the clarity of the Gospel in the world around us.

Have you ever witnessed the wonder of God’s work in your life, only to let the moment slip away in the busyness of the season?In this message on Luke 2:18–19, Michael Rowntree unpacks Mary’s response to the miraculous birth of Christ, showing that while many are merely "amazed" by God for a moment, few take the time to build a history with Him.Yet, he reminds us that true spiritual depth is found in "treasuring and pondering"—gathering the fragments of God’s faithfulness and storing them deep in the soul. This invites us to move beyond temporary excitement and into a lifelong, intimate journey of remembering what God has spoken and done.

Have you ever struggled to feel "worthy" of God's love, or found it nearly impossible to maintain peace with difficult people? In this message on Ephesians 4:1–6, Sam Storms unpacks Paul’s plea to "walk in a manner worthy of the calling," showing that this command is not about working hard to earn God's favor, but rather about reflecting the immense honor of the high office to which we have already been elected.Yet, he reminds us that true humility, gentleness, and unity are found in the "therefore"—looking back at our adoption and forgiveness as the fuel for our obedience. This invites us to trade our pride for the "bond of peace," maintaining the unity of the Spirit by resting in the one hope, one Lord, and one Father who holds us all together.

Why is it that "under the sun," the race is not always to the swift, the battle to the strong, nor bread to the wise?In this message on Ecclesiastes 9:11–18, Michael Rowntree explores the uncomfortable reality that life does not always reward merit. "Time and chance" disrupt our expectations of fairness, and wisdom often goes unnoticed.Michael unpacks the parable of the poor wise man who delivered a city yet was immediately forgotten, illustrating a hard truth: Wisdom is valuable, but it is also vulnerable. In a fallen world, wisdom builds, but "one sinner destroys much good."Yet, the call is to value wisdom not for the applause or success it brings, but for the objective good and beauty it brings into God’s world. Discover why "wisdom is better than weapons of war," even when it goes unrewarded.

Have you ever chased after success, pleasure, or hard work—only to feel empty in the end?In this powerful message on Ecclesiastes 8:16–9:10, Michael Rowntree tackles one of life's most uncomfortable truths: the uncertainty of God’s plan and the certainty of death.Solomon wrestled with the limits of human knowledge, admitting that no one "can find out the work that is done under the sun." The same final event awaits the righteous and the wicked, leading to the unsettling question: What's the point?Michael shows that this uncertainty is not a reason to despair, but rather the motivation for the book's "loudest imperative": "Go!" True joy is found in receiving life, work, and every good gift as blessings from the hand of God today.The shadow of death is not meant to paralyze but to prioritize. Learn why the certainty of Sheol compels us to seize life urgently, find joy in God's approved gifts, and do "whatever your hand finds to do... with your might."

Have you ever wished you could experience God’s love in a deeper, more tangible way? In this message on Ephesians 3:14–21, Sam Storms explores Paul’s breathtaking prayer that believers would be strengthened with power, rooted in love, and filled with all the fullness of God. Discover how the Holy Spirit expands your inner life, how Christ dwells more richly in your heart, and how God’s love surpasses knowledge—overflowing into a life shaped by His immeasurable glory.

Why does God let injustice go on so long? In this message on Ecclesiastes 8:1–15, Michael Rowntree explores the tension between wisdom and mystery—how we trust God when life doesn’t make sense. Solomon reminds us that even when evil seems to prosper, God’s justice is certain, His timing is perfect, and joy is still possible for those who fear Him and walk in humble faith.

Why do we swing between striving for control and running from failure? In Overcoming Shame: The Perfectionist, the Prodigal, and the Receptive Child, Michael Rowntree explores Ecclesiastes 7:15–29 to reveal how both self-righteousness and self-indulgence are forms of pride. True freedom, Solomon teaches, comes not from mastering life but from fearing God—trusting Him when logic fails, humbling ourselves when pride rises, and receiving His grace as children instead of schemers.

How can we find joy when life feels heavy? In Joy in the House of Mourning, Michael Rowntree unpacks Ecclesiastes 7:1–14, where Solomon turns conventional wisdom upside down—showing that sorrow, loss, and hardship can shape us more deeply than pleasure ever could. Discover how godly grief produces wisdom, humility, and lasting joy that only comes from trusting God in the middle of pain.

Is Jesus really enough? In this message, The Unsearchable, Unfathomable, Unparalleled, Incomparable Excellencies of Christ, Sam Storms dives into Ephesians 3:1–13 to reveal the boundless riches of Jesus—riches that no mind can fully grasp or heart can ever exhaust. Discover why every longing of the human soul finds its answer in Him alone, the Lion and the Lamb, whose beauty, power, and mercy surpass all comparison.

Why do some people have everything--and still feel empty? In this message on Ecclesiastes 6:1-12, Michael Rowntree exposes the tragedy of blessing without joy. Solomon shows that apart from God, even wealth, wisdom, and long life leave the soul unsatisfied. Discover how true contentment comes not from having more but from knowing the Giver-and how humility and gratitude break the curse of restless striving "under the sun."

Can the gospel truly unite people divided by race, religion, and culture? In The Church: The One New Man in Jesus Christ, Sam Storms unpacks Ephesians 2:11–22, showing how Christ broke down the walls between Jew and Gentile to form one new humanity—the Church. Discover how the cross not only reconciles us to God but also to one another, creating a diverse yet unified temple where God’s Spirit dwells.

Why do wealth and power so often lead to emptiness instead of peace? In this message on Ecclesiastes 5:8–20, Michael Rowntree examines Solomon’s wisdom on money, work, and worship. Discover why greed leads to restlessness, why joy is found not in grasping but in receiving, and how true contentment comes when we see every good thing as a gift from God’s hand.

Is it really God’s will to heal everyone? In this message on Matthew 8:16–17, Michael Rowntree explores Jesus’ ministry of healing and deliverance as the fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy: “He took our illnesses and bore our diseases.” Discover how Christ’s compassion, authority, and atoning work reveal God’s heart toward the sick and suffering—and how faith, mystery, and mercy all fit within God’s healing purpose today.

How should we approach God when we gather to worship? In this message on Ecclesiastes 5:1–7, Michael Rowntree unpacks Solomon’s wisdom about reverence, words, and vows. Learn why worship is more than outward actions—it’s about drawing near with a humble heart, listening before speaking, and living in awe of the God who is in heaven while we are on earth.

What does it really mean to go from death to life? In this message on Ephesians 2:1–10, Sam Storms unpacks one of the clearest pictures of the gospel in the Bible. Discover how God rescues us by His grace, raises us with Christ, and empowers us to walk in the good works He prepared for us—so we can live with purpose and joy as trophies of His mercy.

Why do we work so hard—and for what? In The Wise Way to Work, Michael Rowntree unpacks Ecclesiastes 4:4–16, exploring how envy, laziness, and isolation distort our view of work. Discover God’s design for a balanced, relational approach to labor—one that values contentment, partnership, and purpose over the empty chase for wealth or status.

Why does injustice seem to win and evil so often go unpunished? In this message on Ecclesiastes 3:16–4:3, Michael Rowntree explores Solomon’s raw wrestling with oppression, suffering, and the apparent absence of justice “under the sun.” Discover how God’s ultimate judgment and eternal perspective bring hope, even when life feels unfair and overwhelming.

Do you feel like you're missing what God is doing in your life? Join us as Sam Storms unpacks Ephesians 1:3-14, showing how Paul's words reveal seven blessings in Christ and a powerful prayer for spiritual vision. Discover how to see God's work more clearly and experience the strength that comes from knowing His ultimate plan to unite all things under Jesus.

Do you ever feel frustrated that life seems out of your control? In this message on Ecclesiastes 3:1–13, Michael Rowntree unpacks Solomon’s famous poem on times and seasons, reminding us that while we cannot master time, God makes everything beautiful in His time. Our frustrations are meant to drive us to trust His eternal plan, fear Him rightly, and receive each moment—even the hard ones—as a gift from His fatherly hand.

Have you ever chased after success, pleasure, or hard work—only to feel empty in the end? In this message on Ecclesiastes 1:13–2:26, Michael Rowntree unpacks Solomon’s search for meaning in wisdom, wealth, and toil, showing that life “under the sun” is vanity without God. Yet, he reminds us that true joy is found in receiving life, work, and every good gift as blessings from the hand of God.✔ The information on this Spotify channel and the resources available are for educational and informational purposes only. All rights belong to their respective owners.✔ This video has obtained all appropriate licenses from the respective copyright holders.✔ This video/audio may contain copyrighted material that constitutes a "fair use" as provided for in Title 17 U.S.C Section 107 of the US Copyright Law.

Is history just chaos—or is God weaving it all together? In today's message, Sam Storms unpacks Ephesians 1:3–14, showing us seven blessings God gives in Christ and the stunning hope behind Paul’s word anakephalaiōsastai—God’s plan to unite all things under Jesus. If you’ve ever felt unwanted, insecure, or overwhelmed by the brokenness of the world, this passage offers a breathtaking reminder: Christ’s victory is certain, and your place in Him is secure.

Are you chasing after meaning, only to feel like you’re stuck on a treadmill? In this message from Ecclesiastes 1:1–12, Michael Rowntree walks us through Solomon’s sobering reflection on the futility of life "under the sun." With poetic honesty and raw wisdom, we’re confronted with the hard truth: if life is only about what we can see and do here and now, it will ultimately feel meaningless. But this wake-up call isn’t meant to leave us in despair—it’s an invitation to look beyond the sun, to the One who brings eternal purpose to everything.

What does Acts 28 teach us about the unstoppable power of the gospel? ​ Join Michael Rowntree as he unpacks Paul's bold proclamation of the kingdom of God, the fulfillment of Israel's hope in Jesus, and how Christ's global mission advances "without hindrance," even in the face of opposition. ​

Shipwrecked but not shaken, Paul lands on the island of Malta—and God’s mission keeps advancing. In this message, Michael Rowntree unpacks how the gospel arrives on distant shores through surprising hospitality, miraculous healing, and spiritual warfare. As Paul shakes off a deadly serpent into the fire, we’re reminded of God’s power over the enemy and His plan to bring light to the nations. From snake bites to revival, this moment in Acts 28 points us to the unstoppable reign of King Jesus.

Michael Rowntree on Acts 28:1-10

Do you struggle with the idea that God chooses people before they choose Him? In this message, Sam Storms tackles one of the most challenging and often avoided doctrines in Scripture—divine election. Drawing from Ephesians 1:3–14, he unpacks what it means to be chosen “before the foundation of the world,” why predestination is a reason for worship, and how this truth fuels both personal assurance and passionate evangelism. With theological clarity and pastoral sensitivity, Storms shows that election is not a cold, academic topic but a deeply personal and loving act of God that invites wonder, humility, and joy.

What really matters in life—the approval of the powerful, or obedience to a heavenly vision? In this gripping courtroom drama, Paul faces governors, kings, and corrupt elites. Yet the most joyful man in the room is the one in chains. As Michael Rowntree guides us through Acts 25–26, we see how the gospel challenges worldly pomp with eternal truth. Discover the boldness of a man who won’t trade his testimony for comfort, and learn what it means to stand firm in faith, whether before emperors or enemies.#sermon #acts #michaelrowntree

In this powerful message, Sam Storms explores the breathtaking depth of Ephesians 1:3–14, unveiling God’s eternal purpose before time began. Why did God choose us, adopt us, and redeem us? What was his ultimate goal? With reverence and clarity, Storms takes us deep into the heart of God’s sovereign plan, showing that God's pursuit of his own glory is inseparably tied to our greatest joy. This is not just theology—it’s an invitation to worship the God who gives us the greatest gift of all: himself.#ephesians #sermon #purpose

In this passage from Acts 24, Paul stands before Governor Felix, not just to defend himself, but to proclaim the truth of the gospel. While the religious leaders use flattery and false accusations, Paul responds with honesty, clarity, and boldness—pointing to righteousness, self-control, and the coming judgment. This moment becomes more than a courtroom drama; it’s a spiritual showdown where eternal truth confronts political power. Felix is intrigued but afraid—reminding us that the gospel demands a response. Will we delay like Felix, or respond with faith?📖 Acts 24:1–27💬 Themes: courage under pressure, gospel witness, conviction vs. delay

🕊️ Explore what happens when truth is put on trial—and how the gospel never loses.In this powerful study of Acts 22:30–23:11, we witness the Apostle Paul on trial—yet it's not just Paul who's being judged. The real courtroom drama centers on the gospel itself and the hope of the resurrection. As political chaos, religious hypocrisy, and spiritual blindness unfold, Paul stands firm with a clear conscience. But just when it seems all hope is lost, the risen Jesus appears—not to the crowd, but to Paul, offering courage and confirming his mission to Rome. If you've ever questioned where truth stands in a world of distortion, this is a moment you don’t want to miss.

In this episode, Michael Rowntree explores why Saul’s conversion story is repeated three times in Acts and what it reveals about the power of personal testimony. Through Paul’s radical transformation, we see the undeniable reality of the resurrection, the extravagance of grace, and God’s heart for reaching the nations. Michael unpacks how sharing our stories—before Christ, our encounter with Him, and life after—can become a powerful witness when centered on Jesus. Whether your story is dramatic or simple, it matters because Christ is in it, and someone needs to hear it.