WCC SermonCast

PODCAST · religion

WCC SermonCast

Missed Sunday's message? Want to revisit a powerful truth? WCC SermonCast brings you the weekly sermons from Whiting Christian Church, helping you stay connected to God’s Word wherever you are. Whether you're catching up, reflecting, or sharing with a friend, tune in and journey with us as we grow in faith together."

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    WCC | Draw Near: All for the Glory of God May 3rd 2026

    In this message from the Draw Near series, we explore how worship extends far beyond Sunday mornings or quiet times with God. Looking at First Corinthians 10:23–11:1, we discover that even our everyday decisions can become acts of worship.Through practical examples and biblical insight, this sermon unpacks a simple but powerful framework: making decisions with God first, others second, and ourselves last. Whether it’s choosing gratitude over complaint, kindness over sarcasm, or intentional conversations over convenience, each choice becomes an opportunity to glorify God.You’ll be challenged to rethink ordinary moments—meals, conversations, routines—as sacred opportunities to live as a “living sacrifice.” This message also calls us to consider how our decisions can open doors for sharing the gospel and loving others well.Worship isn’t just something we attend—it’s something we live.

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    WCC | Draw Near: The Image in the Assembly, Apr. 26th 2026

    In this message, we explore the deeper purpose behind gathering together as the church. Moving beyond the common idea that corporate worship is simply beneficial for us, this sermon challenges us to re-center worship on its true focus: God Himself.Through engaging illustrations—from a single voice reading Scripture to the fullness of a choir—we see how something powerful happens when believers worship together. Corporate worship doesn’t replace personal devotion, but it reveals something greater: a fuller expression of God’s image through His people.Rooted in passages like Psalm 34:3 and Hebrews 10:25, this sermon unpacks how God has always desired not just individuals, but a people who reflect His relational nature. From Genesis to Revelation, Scripture shows that we were created to glorify Him together.Ultimately, corporate worship is not about what we get out of it—it’s about offering God a unified, wholehearted response that delights Him. When we gather, we don’t just worship—we display the beauty of who God is through a community formed in His image.

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    WCC | Draw Near: Increasing Awareness, Apr. 19th 2026

    In week two of the Draw Near series, we explore the connection between worship and self-awareness. Building on the definition that “worship is responding to God for who He is, with everything we are,” this message challenges us to ask a deeper question: Who are we, really?Using the Johari Window as a framework, we examine how growing in self-awareness—through vulnerability, humility, and time with God—expands what we can offer back to Him. Psalm 139 reminds us that God knows us fully, even the parts we don’t yet understand ourselves.This sermon emphasizes the importance of private worship—not just a weekly routine, but a daily response to a God who is all-knowing, ever-present, and all-powerful. As we draw near to Him in those quiet, personal moments, He reveals more of who we are so that we can surrender more fully to Him.The challenge is simple but powerful: Don’t let Sunday be your only moment of worship. Let it be the overflow of a life spent daily in the presence of God.

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    WCC | Draw Near: Living Sacrifices, Apr. 12th 2026

    In this opening message of the Draw Near series, we tackle a foundational question: What is worship, really? Is it just singing songs on Sunday, or is there something deeper going on?Walking through Romans 12:1–2, this sermon explores how worship is rooted in our response to God’s mercy—especially what we see through Jesus’ death and resurrection. Rather than reducing worship to music or emotion, we’re invited to see it as something far more comprehensive: offering our entire lives to God as “living sacrifices.”Along the way, we unpack how worship involves both the mind and the heart, and how our understanding of who God is directly shapes how we respond to Him. Using relatable illustrations—from tuning instruments to everyday life—we’re challenged to align our lives with the truth of God’s character.The result is a clear, guiding definition for the series: Worship is responding to God for who He is, with everything we are.This message also includes a practical challenge to slow down, reflect on God’s attributes, and allow deeper understanding to lead to more genuine, everyday worship.

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    WCC | The King and His Cross: Easter Sunday, Apr. 5th 2026

    In this Easter message, The King and His Cross, we explore the shocking contrast between the kind of king people expected and the King Jesus revealed Himself to be. Looking through John 19, we see a “coronation” unlike any other—no golden crown, no royal throne, no cheering crowds. Instead, Jesus is mocked, beaten, and lifted onto a cross.But what looked like defeat was actually victory.Through a powerful illustration of “bringing the receipts,” this message shows how the resurrection validates everything Jesus claimed—He is the Messiah, the King, and God Himself. The empty tomb is the proof.This sermon challenges us to wrestle with a hard truth: we often want a King who fits our expectations. Yet Jesus calls us to surrender, to follow a King who reigns through sacrifice, and to trust Him even when His ways don’t match our own.Because in the end, His greatest victory came not through force—but through surrender.And that changes everything.

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    WCC | Crown and Consequences: Palm Sunday, Mar. 29th 2026

    What kind of king do you actually want when your life is on the line?In this message from the Crown and Consequence series, we step back and look at the long line of kings in Israel’s history—men who were often unfit, inconsistent, or outright rebellious. Against that backdrop, the triumphal entry in Gospel of Luke reveals something radically different: a King who perfectly follows the will of the Father.This sermon explores how Jesus Christ stands apart from every other king—not because of power, popularity, or strategy, but because of complete obedience. From fulfilled prophecy (Book of Zechariah) to His intentional march toward the cross, Jesus proves Himself to be the only one truly capable of saving His people.But this isn’t just theology—it’s personal.Do you really believe Jesus can save you? Not in theory, but in the weight of your actual sin, your present struggles, and your deepest doubts?This message challenges listeners to move beyond surface-level belief and fully trust in a King who doesn’t save partially—but completely.

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    WCC | Crown and Consequences: The Cost of Rebellion, Mar. 22nd 2026

    Have you ever ignored warning after warning—only to be shocked when the consequences finally came?In this message from the Crown and Consequence series, we look at the final king of Judah, Zedekiah, and the tragic end of a nation that refused to listen. Despite clear warnings from prophets like Jeremiah and the unfolding promises of judgment, Zedekiah hardened his heart—leading to the destruction of Jerusalem and exile in Babylon.But this isn’t just a history lesson.This sermon wrestles with one of the hardest topics in the Christian faith: the justice of hell. Is it fair? Is it loving? Or is it misunderstood?By examining God’s perfect justice in the fall of Judah, we begin to see that judgment is not random, exaggerated, or cruel—it is measured, rightful, and deeply connected to the seriousness of sin. Sin isn’t small; it’s rebellion against a holy God, and it always carries consequences.At the same time, this message highlights the grace of God in giving warning after warning. From the Old Testament to the teachings of Jesus Christ, Scripture consistently points to both the reality of judgment and the opportunity to respond.And that leads to the challenge:If hell is real—and just—how should that shape the way we understand the Gospel… and share it with others?This message calls believers not to use fear as a tactic, but to faithfully and clearly communicate the full truth of the Gospel—including the warnings that come from a loving and just God.

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    WCC | Crown and Consequences: Back to the Blueprint, Mar. 15th 2026

    In this message, we examine the reign of King Josiah and the powerful moment when the long-lost Book of the Law was rediscovered in the temple. Like trying to build a Lego set without the instruction manual, Josiah had been pursuing God with the knowledge he had—but when the true standard was finally found, he didn’t ignore it or make excuses. Instead, he humbled himself and led the nation of Judah back to God’s instructions.Through Josiah’s response, we see the importance of Scripture as God’s standard for our lives. Throughout church history—from the Reformation’s emphasis on Sola Scriptura to the Restoration Movement’s call to return to the authority of the Bible—believers have repeatedly been challenged to come back to God’s Word as the ultimate guide for faith and life.This sermon calls Christians to resist the temptation to give themselves “slack” by redefining God’s standards and instead hold tightly to the truth God has given. Salvation is freely given through Christ, but those who truly desire to be close to God will pursue Him through His Word.As Josiah discovered, when we return to the standard of Scripture, it doesn’t push us away from God—it draws us closer to Him.

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    WCC | Crown and Consequences: The Bigger Picture, Mar. 8th 2026

    Why do some people remain faithful in the background while others lose their way once the spotlight shifts?In this message from the Crown and Consequence series, we explore the story of King Joash and the priest Jehoiada in 2 Chronicles 24. Joash began his reign doing what was right, guided by the wisdom and faithfulness of Jehoiada. But after his mentor’s death, Joash lost sight of what mattered and allowed selfish influence to shape his decisions—with tragic consequences.Through the illustration of three stone cutters working on the same project with very different perspectives, this sermon challenges us to consider how we view our own lives. Are we just “cutting stones,” or do we see the greater work God is building through us?Jehoiada never sought power or recognition, yet his quiet faithfulness shaped a king and preserved the line of David. His life reminds us that influence is not limited to those with titles, and purpose is not reserved for those in the spotlight.Whether you live in a small town, hold a prominent role, or quietly serve behind the scenes, God invites each of us to see the bigger picture of His work in the world.In this episode we explore:The rise and fall of King JoashThe quiet influence of faithful leadershipHow losing sight of God’s bigger picture leads to destructive choicesFinding purpose and joy by aligning our lives with the will of GodTrue honor doesn’t come from status or power—it comes from faithfully playing the role God has given you in the story He is building.

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    WCC | Crown and Consequences: Chance After Chance, Mar. 1st 2026

    In this message, we continue our Crown and Consequence series by examining one of the most infamous kings in Israel’s history—Ahab. Known for doing “more evil in the eyes of the LORD than any before him,” Ahab’s reign is marked by idolatry, compromise, and tragic influence. Yet woven throughout his story is something unexpected: relentless mercy.From drought to Mount Carmel, from miraculous military victories to prophetic warnings, God gives Ahab chance after chance to repent. Time and again, Ahab resists. But even in his rebellion, we see a God who continues to pursue, warn, and invite.This sermon explores what Ahab’s life teaches us about the patience of God, the danger of compromise, the influence of relationships, and the truth that we cannot hide or escape from God’s Word—either in judgment or in grace.Most importantly, it points us to the ultimate King, Jesus Christ—the only one who lived the perfect life we could never live. When we stand before God, the scorecard we receive will not reflect what we deserve, but what Christ has accomplished on our behalf.If you have breath in your lungs, you have another chance.Listen and be reminded: our God is a God of second, third, fourth… and even fifth chances.

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    WCC | Guest Speaker: Austin Ettleman, Feb. 22nd 2026

    This week we were joined by guest speaker Austin Ettleman, who came to share about the ministry of Nebowa Christian Camp and to preach on this summer’s camp theme, Ascend, from Psalm 24.Drawing from David’s powerful question, “Who may ascend the mountain of the Lord?”, Austin challenged us to consider what it truly means to approach God. Psalm 24 reminds us that the earth belongs to the Lord, that He is holy, and that those who seek Him must come with clean hands and pure hearts. Ascending isn’t about earning our way up—it’s about humbly pursuing the presence of God with integrity and surrender.Austin also shared how Nebowa Christian Camp creates space for students and families to step away from distractions, seek the Lord intentionally, and grow in their faith. As we look toward the summer, this message calls us upward—to live lives that reflect God’s holiness and to actively seek Him above all else.If you’ve ever wondered what it looks like to draw near to God and live with eternity in view, this message will encourage and challenge you to ascend.

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    WCC | Crown and Consequence: Desire for Approval, Feb. 15th 2026

    In the opening message of our Crown and Consequence series, we begin by examining the reign of King Jeroboam in 1 Kings 11–12. Given a kingdom by God and promised an enduring dynasty if he would simply trust and obey, Jeroboam instead allowed fear to drive his decisions. Worried about losing the approval of the people, he set up golden calves for Israel to worship—repeating the very sin that once led the nation astray in the wilderness.This message explores a sobering truth: when pleasing people becomes the goal, people quietly become the god. From ancient Israel to modern social media pressures, we wrestle with the temptation to seek approval from others rather than faithfulness to God. Jeroboam’s story reminds us that fear often leads to compromise, compromise leads to idolatry, and idolatry always carries consequences—not just for us, but for those we influence.As we trace the divided kingdom and the lasting impact of Jeroboam’s choices, we’re reminded that every earthly king ultimately points us to the One true King—Jesus Christ—who reigns not by fear or manipulation, but by faithfulness and truth.Will we seek the approval of people, or will we trust the promises of God?

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    WCC | Shepherds, Servants, and Saints: To the Ends of the Earth, Feb. 8th 2026

    We wrap up our Shepherds, Servants, and Saints series by asking a simple but essential question: Why does the structure of the church matter? In Acts 1, Jesus makes it clear—His work didn’t end with His ascension. It continues through His church.In this episode, we explore what it means to be Christ’s witnesses—beginning in Jerusalem and extending to the ends of the earth. From elders and deacons to membership and belonging, every role in the church serves a greater mission. Our purpose tells us who we are; our mission tells us what we’re doing about it.Just like a review reflects real experience, being a witness flows from what we have truly experienced in Christ. We don’t exaggerate, and we don’t stay silent. We testify to the grace we’ve received.At Whiting Christian Church, our mission is simple: Building Christlike Communities One Neighbor at a Time. This message calls us to live that out—not just on Sundays, but every day—until Christ returns.Join us as we consider what it means to continue the work Jesus began.

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    WCC | Shepherds, Servants, and Saints: Belonging to Each Other, Feb. 1st 2026

    What does it really mean to belong to a church—not just attend one?In this episode, we explore Jesus’ words in Matthew 18:15–17 and how they shape the way believers care for one another within the body of Christ. Using playful illustrations from mystery games and the modern college sports transfer portal, we unpack why clarity about “who’s on the team” matters for accountability, restoration, and genuine community.We talk about:Why church isn’t a roster—it’s a familyHow loving correction is meant to win, not shameWhat church membership communicates about commitment and responsibilityHow Romans 12:4–5 and Ephesians 1:4–8 remind us that we belong to one another through ChristThe episode closes with a communion meditation on spiritual siblinghood, shared redemption, and the grace that binds the church together as one body.If you’ve ever wrestled with what it means to commit to a local church—or why it matters—this conversation invites you to move from “consumer” to family member.

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    WCC | Shepherds, Servants, and Saints: Sharing the Load, Jan. 25th 2026

    This message explores how the church is designed to carry weight together. Using the picture of a bridge under pressure and the story of the early church in Acts 6, we look at how God’s solution to growth isn’t more burden on a few, but shared responsibility among many. The sermon introduces the heart behind deacons as servants who step in, take ownership, and help the whole body thrive. It’s a call to move from “I’ll handle it” to “we’ll carry it,” so the church can grow beyond the limits it sets for itself.

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    WCC | Shepherds, Servants, and Saints: The Weight and Wonder of Eldership, Jan. 18th 2026

    This message explores what it really means to lead and to follow in the life of the church through the lens of biblical eldership. We reflect on the heart behind spiritual leadership, the weight and responsibility it carries, and the humility it calls for from both elders and the congregation. It’s a reminder that eldership is not about authority for its own sake, but about care, prayer, guidance, and walking closely with the people God has entrusted to the church. Ultimately, this episode points us toward becoming a body where people are known, valued, and spiritually shepherded, not just counted or observed from a distance.

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    WCC | Shepherds, Servants, and Saints: Under His Feet, Jan. 11th 2026

    This sermon is a call to realign. It’s about asking a hard but necessary question: who is actually leading the church?Rather than following emotion, preference, or personal agendas, this sermon centers on Jesus as the true head of the church—and what it looks like when His authority is taken seriously. Drawing from Ephesians 1, the focus is on how Christ’s power, promises, and leadership are not abstract ideas, but are meant to shape the identity, unity, and mission of the church.Ultimately, this message challenges us to examine our commitment: not just to attending church, but to being part of Christ’s body—moving in step with His will, for His purposes, and for the good of His people.

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    WCC | Shepherds, Servants, and Saints: God's Special Possession, Jan. 4th 2026

    What is the church—and what does it mean to belong to it?In this opening message of a new year and a new series, we zoom out to see the big picture of who we are as God’s people. Rather than treating the church as a building, an event, or an organization we occasionally attend, this sermon invites us to see the church as something God is actively building—stone by stone, life by life.Using the imagery of architecture, history, and Scripture, we explore how God forms ordinary people into something extraordinary: a spiritual house, a holy people, and His treasured possession. This message challenges our individualistic instincts and calls us to rediscover the beauty, purpose, and significance of being part of the church—not as spectators, but as living stones.If you’ve ever struggled to love the church, questioned its value, or wondered where you fit within it, this episode invites you to slow down, look again, and be captivated by what God is doing through His people.

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    WCC | Other Worlds: Fake Worlds Stealing Real Purpose | December 28th, 2025

    This message examines the growing pull of escapism and the desire to retreat into alternative or fabricated realities. Beginning with cultural examples such as Ready Player One and its film adaptation by Steven Spielberg, the sermon explores how warnings about living in false worlds can themselves become realities when people seek escape rather than engagement.Anchored in Genesis 1, the message reflects on God’s intentional creation of the real world—its beauty, order, purpose, and meaning. Genesis is presented as the foundation of reality itself, showing that God not only created the world but also established humanity’s identity and purpose within it. The fall is examined as humanity’s first surrender to a false reality, where the promise of becoming “like God” drew Adam and Eve away from the good world God had given them.The sermon broadens the discussion to modern forms of false worlds, including media, social platforms, fantasy, distorted views of relationships, and self-created narratives that promise control, comfort, or escape. While acknowledging that stories, creativity, and recreation are not inherently wrong, the message asks where the line is crossed between enjoyment and avoidance. Drawing on insight from C. S. Lewis, it distinguishes between healthy rest and escapism that pulls people away from truth, responsibility, and God-given purpose.At its core, the message emphasizes that the real world—though broken by sin—is the only reality God chose to enter, redeem, and restore through Jesus Christ. Rather than escaping pain through false realities, listeners are invited to bring their struggles before God, live more fully present in the world He created, and seek healing, identity, and purpose where Christ has already met them.This sermon calls for thoughtful self-examination, renewed presence, and a deeper commitment to living faithfully in the reality God designed—because it is here, and only here, that redemption was accomplished and life with God is found.

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    WCC | He will be Called: Christmas Eve | December 24th, 2025

    When help is hard to find and solutions feel impersonal, Christmas offers a different kind of answer.This Christmas Eve message reflects on the frustration of seeking help in a broken world and points to the truth that God did not respond to human need with distant advice or instructions. Instead, He came in person. Drawing from Isaiah 9:6, the sermon explores the meaning of Jesus being called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace.The message walks through the shared needs of humanity—guidance, strength, restoration, and peace—and shows how each of these is met in Christ. Rather than giving directions from afar, God provided someone to follow. Rather than demanding strength humanity does not have, He supplied His own. Rather than leaving people separated by sin, He made a way to be cleaned, restored, and welcomed home. Rather than offering temporary relief from anxiety, He brings lasting peace rooted in God’s control and promises.The sermon concludes by focusing on the incarnation as God’s invitation to draw near, and on communion as a reminder that Jesus met human need through His own body and blood. Christmas is presented as a moment to examine our need for help and to recognize that in the child born in the manger, God has already provided what we lack.

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    WCC | He will be Called: Prince of Peace | December 21st, 2025

    What does it really mean to call Jesus the Prince of Peace? In this episode, we explore one of Isaiah’s most hope-filled promises and see how it takes shape in the life and ministry of Jesus. Rather than defining peace as the absence of trouble, Scripture shows us a deeper kind of peace—one that holds steady even in the middle of chaos. By looking at Jesus calming the storm, we see how His authority brings peace not only to circumstances, but to fearful hearts as well. This message invites us to consider where we look for peace, and why lasting peace is found not in control, but in trusting the One who is truly in charge.

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    WCC | He will be Called: Everlasting Father | December 14th, 2025

    In this message from our He Will Be Called series, we explore the name “Everlasting Father” from Isaiah 9:6 and discover what it reveals about Jesus’ heart and His Kingdom. While we often think of Jesus as the Son, Scripture shows Him as a King who rules with the loving, steady care of a perfect Father—one who provides, protects, and lovingly guides His people forever.Through Jesus’ interaction with children in Mark 10, we’re reminded that the Kingdom of God doesn’t belong to the impressive, the independent, or the self-sufficient. It belongs to the helpless, the dependent, and those willing to receive grace like a child. This episode challenges the idea that our value comes from what we can offer and invites us instead to rest in the truth that we are loved simply because we belong to Him.As we head into the Christmas season, this sermon also calls us to reflect the heart of our Everlasting Father by opening our arms to the vulnerable—children, widows, and those who may feel forgotten—loving others not for what they bring to the table, but because they matter to God.

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    WCC| He Will Be Called: Mighty God | November 30th, 2025

    What does it mean that the child born to us is also our Mighty God? This week, Pastor Jed turns to the mountain of Transfiguration in Matthew 17, where Jesus’ divine nature shines unmistakably. In this episode, we discover why the divinity of Christ matters for our salvation, our worship, and our everyday confidence. When we see Jesus for who He truly is, everything changes.

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    WCC| He Will Be Called: Wonderful Counselor | November 23rd, 2025

    In this week’s message from our Christmas series on Isaiah 9:6, we look at the first name given to Jesus: Wonderful Counselor. Christmas reminds us that Jesus didn’t just come to save us—He came to guide, restore, and speak life into weary hearts. In John 21, we see the risen Jesus meet Peter in his failure, counsel him with grace, and restore him to purpose. That same Wonderful Counselor comes alongside us today with wisdom, truth, and unwavering love. Join us as we discover how the One born in Bethlehem continues to lead us gently and powerfully into hope.

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    WCC| First Fruits: Turn Your Eyes | November 16th, 2025

    When Zacchaeus climbed that sycamore tree in Luke 19, he was just trying to see Jesus. But that moment changed everything — not just his life, but his heart. His view of money, status, and success was flipped upside down the moment he met the Savior face to face.In this final message of the First Fruits series, we explore how seeing Jesus clearly reshapes how we see everything else — especially our wealth. When our eyes are fixed on Him, generosity stops feeling like loss and starts looking like freedom.

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    WCC| First Fruits: Heart of the Tithe | November 9nd 2025

    In this message from our First Fruits series, we take an honest and biblical look at tithing—what it means, where it comes from, and how it fits into life as a follower of Jesus today. Rather than focusing on percentages or obligations, this sermon explores the heart behind the tithe: recognizing that everything we have comes from God and responding with gratitude and faith. Through Scripture, we discover that giving is not a rule to follow but an act of worship, trust, and partnership in God’s work.

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    WCC| First Fruits: Having Less, Gaining More | November 2nd 2025

    In his farewell to the Ephesian elders, Paul reminds the church of Jesus’ words: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” In a world obsessed with accumulating more, this truth cuts straight to the heart. The real joy of life isn’t found in what we hold onto — it’s found in what we give away.In this sermon, we explore how generosity shapes our faith, strengthens our community, and draws us closer to the heart of God. Because when we give, we reflect the character of the One who gave everything for us.

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    WCC| First Fruits: Healthy Eyes, October 26th 2025

    We’re kicking off a new series called First Fruits, exploring what it means to give God our best, not our leftovers. In this opening message, “Healthy Eyes,” we look at Matthew 6:19–24 where Jesus connects our view of money with the condition of our heart. Just as healthy eyes let light in, a healthy perspective on treasure lets God’s truth illuminate every part of our lives. When our focus shifts from what we can gain to what God is doing, we discover freedom, generosity, and true vision for what matters most.

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    WCC| Guest Speaker: Jim Hardy, October 19th 2025

    This week we welcome Jim Hardy to share from Hebrews 10 on the quiet, life-changing power of encouragement. Scripture calls us to “consider how to spur one another on” and to “not give up meeting together”—not as a slogan, but as a lifeline for weary hearts. Jim unpacks why encouragement is more than compliments: it’s intentional, gospel-rooted action that helps believers hold fast, show up, and serve with courage. You’ll leave with simple, practical ways to speak life, notice needs, and build a culture where people don’t walk alone.

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    WCC| Relishing the Good Times: Poured Out and Overflowing, October 12th 2025

    Paul points to the churches in Macedonia as an example of something remarkable: even in the midst of poverty and hardship, their joy overflowed into radical generosity. How? Because they had experienced God’s grace — and grace always produces joy that spills over into action.In this sermon, we explore how grace transforms the heart, turning scarcity into abundance and duty into delight. True joy isn’t rooted in our circumstances or resources — it flows from knowing God’s grace so deeply that we can’t help but pour it out for others.

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    WCC| Relishing the Good Times: Shared Joy, October 5th 2025

    When the people of Israel heard God’s Word in Nehemiah 8, their hearts were moved — not to private reflection, but to a shared celebration. Joy wasn’t something they kept to themselves; it was something they built together. From the oldest to the youngest, everyone joined in the feast, because God’s goodness was meant to be experienced as one community.In this sermon, we explore how joy grows deeper when it’s shared. True, biblical joy isn’t individualistic — it’s communal. God calls His people to celebrate together, reminding us that our faith, our worship, and our joy are meant to unite us as one body.

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    WCC| Relishing the Good Times: In the Right Position, September 28th 2025

    Jesus tells His disciples, “I am the vine; you are the branches.” In John 15, He shows us that lasting joy isn’t something we manufacture — it flows naturally when we remain connected to Him. But abiding in Christ isn’t passive; it means choosing obedience and aligning our lives with His will.In this sermon, we explore how positioning ourselves in daily obedience to God allows His life to flow through us, producing fruit that lasts and a joy that cannot be shaken. Joy isn’t found in chasing feelings — it’s found in staying close to the Vine.

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    WCC| Relishing the Good Times: An Eternal Joy, September 21st 2025

    So often we chase happiness in what money can buy — bigger houses, nicer cars, or the next big purchase. But as Ecclesiastes reminds us, wealth can never deliver lasting joy. True contentment isn’t found in what we own, but in who we know.In this sermon, we look at why money is such an ineffective source of joy and why a relationship with God is far easier — and far more fulfilling. When we learn to delight in His presence, we discover a joy that doesn’t fade, even when the things of this world do.

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    WCC| Relishing the Good Times, While it Lasts, September 14th 2025

    Life is full of seasons — some joyful, some challenging, all beyond our control. In Ecclesiastes 3, we’re reminded that “there is a time for everything” — and that the good moments we’re given are gifts from God to be embraced, not taken for granted.In this sermon, we explore what it means to truly relish the good times. Because seasons shift and change, we’re called to slow down, notice God’s blessings, and celebrate His goodness while we have the chance.

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    WCC | The Quiet Life Defined, September 7th 2025

    In a world obsessed with status, influence, and recognition, Paul’s call to “live a quiet life” can feel both countercultural and confusing. In this sermon, we explore Paul’s words in light of the ancient Roman patron/client culture—a system where personal identity and security often depended on aligning yourself with the powerful.Paul challenges this norm by urging believers to find their identity not in earthly networks of power but in belonging to Christ. Instead of striving for social leverage, Paul paints a vision of faithfulness marked by love, work, and integrity.This message invites us to consider what it truly means to lead a “quiet life” today—one shaped not by climbing social ladders but by reflecting the values of God’s kingdom in our relationships, our work, and our witness to the world.

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    WCC| Esther: Saved to Celebrate, August 31st 2025

    As Esther’s story concludes, we see God’s faithfulness on full display. In Esther 9–10, what was meant for tragedy becomes a day of triumph, and God’s people respond with joy, feasting, and remembrance. Purim is established as a celebration — not just of victory, but of God’s unseen hand working all things for their good.This sermon invites us to pause and celebrate God’s work in our own lives. Even when we can’t see Him, He is moving, protecting, and redeeming — and that’s always worth rejoicing over.

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    WCC| Esther: Cutting the Tension, August 24th 2025

    In Esther chapter 9, the day of battle finally arrives — but the tension we expect isn’t there. Why? Because God had already gone before His people. The Jews stood united, confident, and protected, as God turned what was meant for their destruction into a decisive victory.This sermon highlights the unstoppable power of God’s promises and reminds us that when He is for us, no enemy can stand against us. The victory was never in doubt — because the outcome was already in God’s hands.

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    WCC| Esther: He Saw it Coming, August 10th 2025

    In Esther chapter 7, the tension reaches its peak. The queen risks everything as she finally reveals her identity and exposes Haman’s plot to destroy her people. In this sermon, we explore God’s sovereign hand at work behind the scenes, the courage it takes to stand for truth, and the dramatic reversal that changes everything.Whether you’re in a season of waiting, wrestling with fear, or searching for hope, Esther 7 reminds us that God’s timing is perfect — and His justice never fails.

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    WCC| Esther: When Life Gives You Lemons, August 17th 2025

    After Haman’s downfall, the story takes an unexpected turn in Esther chapter 8. Even with the enemy defeated, the threat against God’s people remains — but God is still at work. Through Esther’s boldness and Mordecai’s newfound authority, a new decree is written that brings hope, freedom, and victory.This sermon explores God’s power to redeem broken situations, the importance of standing firm in faith, and how His plans always prevail, even when the odds seem impossible.

  40. 14

    WCC| Esther: Earth May Forget, Heaven Remembers | August 3rd, 2025

    Esther 6 turns the entire story on its head—not through force or strategy, but through a king who can’t sleep. In this sermon, we explore how God’s providence is at work in the quiet hours, orchestrating justice in ways no one could have predicted. As Haman plots to honor himself, he’s instead forced to honor Mordecai—the very man he despises. What do we learn when pride meets God’s reversal? This message reminds us that even when it seems like evil is winning, God is moving in the background, turning the story around in His perfect timing.

  41. 13

    WCC| Esther: Guarding Your Gladness | July 20th, 2025

    In Esther 5, Haman seems to have it all—power, prestige, influence, and favor with the king and queen. But one man, Mordecai, refusing to bow is enough to rob him of all joy. In this sermon, we take a hard look at how bitterness and pride can blind us to the blessings right in front of us. What do we do when one frustration overshadows all the good in our lives? Discover how unchecked resentment can ruin what should be moments of celebration—and how God's people are called to live with hearts anchored in humility and grace.

  42. 12

    WCC| Esther: For Such a Time as This | July 13th, 2025

    Esther 4 captures a pivotal moment in the story—when the fate of an entire people hangs in the balance, and one woman must decide whether to risk everything for the sake of others. In this sermon, we explore Mordecai’s powerful challenge to Esther and the call to step into God's purpose even when it's costly. What does it mean to live with courage and conviction “for such a time as this”? Discover how faith, sacrifice, and obedience intersect when God invites us to be part of His greater plan—even when He seems silent.

  43. 11

    WCC| Esther: The Pride Before the Fall | July 6th, 2025

    In Esther chapter 3, we witness the sudden rise of Haman—a man driven by pride and hatred—and the dangerous decree he makes against God’s people. In this sermon, we explore the tension between God's hidden hand and human wickedness. Why does God allow evil to prosper? How should we respond when injustice feels overwhelming? This message reminds us that even when the odds are stacked against us, God is still at work behind the scenes, aligning His justice with His perfect timing. Discover the power of faith, courage, and hope in the face of darkness.

  44. 10

    WCC| Guest Speaker: Andrew Mahoney, July 27th 2025

    Artificial intelligence is advancing fast—reshaping work, communication, and even how we think about the future. For many, it brings questions, uncertainty, and anxiety. But as followers of Jesus, we are not called to panic—we are called to trust. In this sermon, we explore how to anchor our peace in Christ in a world of rapid change. Technology may shift the world around us, but our hope is rooted in the One who never changes. Learn how to navigate the unknown not with fear, but with faith in the One who holds the future.

  45. 9

    WCC| Esther: Beauty, Favor, and the Hidden Hand of God | June 29th, 2025

    In Esther 2, we see the rise of an unlikely heroine placed in an unexpected position of influence. Though God’s name is never mentioned in the chapter, His hand is unmistakably at work—guiding events, opening doors, and preparing Esther for a task far greater than she could have imagined. This sermon explores how God often works behind the scenes in our lives, orchestrating circumstances and placing us in specific roles for His greater purposes. But the story also challenges us to consider our response: Will we recognize the opportunities God has prepared? Will we choose courage, faith, and obedience when the time comes to act? Esther’s story reminds us that divine providence and personal responsibility often walk hand in hand—and that we, too, may be positioned “for such a time as this.”

  46. 8

    WCC| Esther: Pride and Providence | June 22nd, 2025

    Join us as we dive into the dramatic opening chapter of Esther, a seemingly secular story where God is notably absent from the text, yet profoundly present in the unfolding events. In this sermon, we'll explore how the lavish feasts, arbitrary decrees, and human machinations of King Xerxes's court set the stage for a divine narrative. We'll grapple with the intriguing tension between God's overarching sovereignty—His purposeful hand guiding even the seemingly chaotic—and the undeniable reality of human free will, as characters make choices with far-reaching consequences. Discover how Esther 1 lays the groundwork for understanding that even in the midst of human folly and political maneuvering, God's ultimate plan is relentlessly, yet subtly, at work.

  47. 7

    WCC| Father's Day: More than a Good Dad | June 15th, 2025

    This Father's Day sermon delves into the crucial distinction between simply teaching morality and actively cultivating faith in our children. It challenges fathers to look beyond the external actions and behaviors of their children, and instead, focus on nurturing a deep, abiding relationship with God. The message will explore how a foundation of genuine faith naturally leads to moral living, while a sole emphasis on rules and good conduct can often lead to superficial obedience or even rebellion. Drawing from biblical examples, the sermon will encourage fathers to model a vibrant faith, teach their children the transformative power of God's grace, and prioritize a heart surrendered to Christ over mere adherence to a moral code, ultimately empowering their children to live lives rooted in divine love and purpose.

  48. 6

    WCC| B.L.E.S.S.: My Story, His Glory | June 1st, 2025

    This sermon explores the profound impact of sharing our personal narratives and the transformative power of the Gospel story with those around us. We'll delve into how our individual journeys of faith, marked by God's grace and intervention, can become powerful testimonies that bless our neighbors. By intentionally engaging in conversations that bridge our experiences with the timeless truth of Christ's love, we can foster genuine connection, offer hope, and invite others into the life-changing narrative of redemption. Discover how your story, intertwined with His, is a vital instrument for extending God's blessings right where you live.

  49. 5

    WCC| Guest Speaker: Austin Ettleman, Nebowa Christian Camp | May 25th, 2025

    This week features a compelling message from guest speaker Austin Ettleman, who delves into the profound truths found in John 10. Austin's sermon, titled "Knowing the Voice of the Good Shepherd," offers practical insights into discerning God's guidance in our daily lives.Drawing from John 10:1-18, Austin beautifully expounds on Jesus's self-proclamation as the Good Shepherd. He emphasizes that just as sheep recognize and follow their shepherd's voice, believers are called to cultivate a close relationship with Jesus, enabling them to distinguish His voice amidst the many competing sounds of the world.

  50. 4

    WCC| B.L.E.S.S.: Service with a Smile | May 18th, 2025

    Welcome to our live stream! We are so glad you are joining us today for a time of worship, teaching, and community. Whether you're near or far, our online service offers a chance to connect with God and each other in a meaningful way!

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Missed Sunday's message? Want to revisit a powerful truth? WCC SermonCast brings you the weekly sermons from Whiting Christian Church, helping you stay connected to God’s Word wherever you are. Whether you're catching up, reflecting, or sharing with a friend, tune in and journey with us as we grow in faith together."

HOSTED BY

Jed Shermer

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