The Table

What does it actually look like to follow Jesus in the middle of real life?In this episode of The Table, we hit the road to Nashville for the Worship Together Conference and invite you into the conversation along the way. Joined by Ben, Melissa, and Halley, we talk honestly about spiritual disciplines—not as rigid routines or checklists, but as simple, life-giving practices that help shape our faith over time.We discuss practical ways to build rhythms of prayer, Scripture, worship, and rest into everyday life, especially in seasons that feel busy, loud, or anything but “quiet.” This is a candid, around-the-table conversation about forming habits that help us stay rooted in Christ wherever we are.So whether you’re commuting, traveling, or just trying to figure out how faith fits into your normal week, pull up a seat and join us.

As we conclude our 28 Days of Prayer, we turn our focus to being held by God’s peace and led by His joy. In a moment filled with anticipation and uncertainty, we’re reminded that our confidence rests not in outcomes, decisions, or circumstances, but in the faithful presence of God.Grounded in Psalm 16:11 and Philippians 4:7, this episode invites us to pray for the peace that surpasses all understanding and the joy that flows from walking closely with the Lord. Together, we’ll spend time in Scripture and guided prayer, asking God to guard our hearts, steady our minds, and anchor our trust in Him.As we approach the days ahead, may we walk forward united, confident, and hopeful—held by God’s peace and led by His joy.

As we continue our 28 Days of Prayer, this week we focus on being united in Christ and humble in spirit. In a season that requires trust and togetherness, we’re asking God to remove division, pride, and personal agendas, and to bind us together in love, purpose, and truth.Grounded in 1 Corinthians 1:10 and Ephesians 4:1–3, this episode invites us to reflect on what it means to walk worthy of our calling—choosing humility, patience, and unity for the sake of the Gospel. We’re reminded that unity doesn’t mean uniformity, but a shared commitment to Christ and His mission.Together, we’ll spend time in Scripture and guided prayer, seeking the Lord’s help to live as one body, strengthened by the bond of peace. As always, we invite you to join us in fasting on Thursdays as we continue to seek God with open hearts.

As we continue our 28 Days of Prayer, this week we focus on trusting the God who knows the way. In a season that requires wisdom and discernment, we’re intentionally setting aside our preferences and plans to seek God’s will above all else.This episode invites us to pray for clarity, humility, and surrender as Fellowship West and Open Door consider the possibility of merging. Grounded in Jeremiah 29:11 and 1 Corinthians 2:9, we’re reminded that God’s plans are good, His wisdom is higher, and His purposes are always for His glory and our ultimate good.Together, we’ll reflect on Scripture, practice trust through guided prayer, and continue our commitment to fasting on Thursdays as we seek the Lord with open hands and faithful hearts.

In this first week of our 28 Days of Prayer initiative, we focus on being empowered by the Holy Spirit to be Christ’s witnesses, not just within the walls of the church, but wherever God has placed us.This episode invites us to pray that God would move us beyond comfort and complacency, shaping Fellowship West and Open Door into a bold, Spirit-empowered people committed to making disciples locally, nationally, and globally. Grounded in Acts 1:8 and Matthew 28:19–20, we reflect on God’s call to live on mission and trust in His presence as we go.As part of this episode, we’ll spend intentional time in guided prayer, reading Scripture together and responding to God’s leading. We also invite you to join us in fasting on Thursdays as we seek the Lord with humility, dependence, and expectation.For a full outline of our 28 days of prayer, check out our prayer guide HERE.

The new year often comes with pressure—to move faster, do more, and fix everything all at once. In this episode of The Table, we slow things down.This conversation reflects on resisting hurry and choosing a more intentional pace as we begin a new year. For the first time on the podcast, Tyler's wife Melissa joins the table to share her perspective on rest, margin, and what it looks like to follow Jesus without rushing into change.Together, we talk about the spiritual cost of hurry, the freedom of starting small, and simple rhythms that help create space for God’s presence in everyday life. Whether you’re feeling refreshed or already exhausted by January, this episode offers grace, encouragement, and permission to start the year slow.

What’s the true story behind Santa Claus, and how should Christians think about it? In this final week of Advent, we explore the real history behind the legend of Santa, how the story developed over time, and why it continues to matter in our homes and traditions today.We also share a helpful framework for believers as they think through how to handle Santa in a way that’s thoughtful, loving, and centered on Christ. Rather than offering one-size-fits-all answers, this conversation invites wisdom, grace, and intentionality.More importantly, we talk about love as the heart of Christmas. From generosity and joy to the ways we point our families toward what truly matters, this conversation invites us to think carefully about the stories we tell and the love we’re trying to pass on.This episode is thoughtful, honest, and family-aware—offering perspective rather than prescriptions—while pointing us back to the greater story of Christ’s love that Advent celebrates.

What’s the weirdest Christmas gift you’ve ever received? This week at The Table, we kick things off by sharing some of our most memorable (and questionable) Christmas gifts before turning our attention to the Advent theme of joy.In the middle of the noise, busyness, and expectations of the season, Advent reminds us that joy isn’t something we have to manufacture, it’s something Christ brings. We explore what it means to experience joy that goes deeper than circumstances, talk about why joy is central to the Christian story, and reflect on how the good news of Jesus still breaks through the chaos today.Along the way, we have some fun with a Christmas lightning round and laugh together, while pointing our hearts back to the lasting joy found in Christ.

This week on The Table, we explore the Advent theme of Peace, discovering how God’s peace can calm the chaos of the season. Along the way, we share favorite Christmas traditions, draft our ultimate Christmas treats, and dive into the story behind O Come, All Ye Faithful—a carol that has brought hope and peace for generations.Join us for a festive mix of laughter, reflection, and the true peace of Christ.Prayer PracticesListening PrayerFirst, get somewhere quiet and distraction-free. Then:• Breathe — Take a minute or two to just breathe slowly and deeply, clearing your mind to receive God’s word to you. You may want to simply pray, “Father” or “Jesus” as you inhale and exhale each breath.• Silence — Ask God to silence the voice of the enemy in your mind, to clear the air around you, to shield and guard your imagination.• Ask the Spirit to speak to you• Open your mind and heart to listen — 1 Corinthians 6v19 tells us our body is a “temple of the Holy Spirit.” The Spirit within you has direct access to your imagination. Wait quietly with a surrendered heart. He may come to you in a Word or phraseBreath PrayerFind a quiet, distraction-free place to pray.• Get seated comfortably, but where you can breathe properly and not slouch. • Breathe slowly (five seconds on the inhale, then five on the exhale) from your belly. Relax. Become present to your body. And to the moment. Then, open your mind to God.• You may just want to remain here, in loving attention to the Trinity. Remember: You’re not trying to pray words here. It’s your heart to God’s heart• Or you may want to combine a prayer word to your breath. A prayer word is simply a word or phrase that you use to keep your attention fixed on God.Praying the Examen1. Become aware of God— Review the day with the eyes of the Spirit, asking God for the light to see. It may seem rushed to you, a blur or chaotic. If you feel overwhelmed or struggle to focus, ask the Spirit to help you see and bring focus to your mind.2. Look back with gratitude— As you explore your day, take note of moments where you can thank God for what’s been. It may be as simple as noting the provision of food and waking in the comfort of your bed. Think about the people in your day and the connections made. Where was God in each relationship or conversation? Recall the little things about your day, simple everyday pleasures, and discover God among them.3. Notice your emotions— Reflect on your feelings throughout the day. What do you notice? Without judging what you felt, did you feel anger? Contentment? Empathy? Happiness? Embarrassment? Trusting that God speaks through our emotions, what do you think God was saying amidst them?4. Pray from one piece of your day— Allowing the Spirit to highlight one element of your day, be it positive or negative, ask him to speak to you about it. Consider it with him and allow it to lead you to prayer, whether it’s gratitude, intercession, petition, repentance, or praise.5. Look ahead to tomorrow— Finally, ask God to prepare your heart for tomorrow. Notice how you feel about it — anxious, excited, nervous, overwhelmed — and invite the Spirit to speak to those joys and concerns. Ask for clarity for the day ahead and for peace to approach it with confidence. Ask for wisdom, for hope, for discernment.Lectio DivinaRead – Read the passage out loud, reflecting on the passage as you readMeditate – Read the passage again, one verse at a time, making note of any words or phrases that stand outPray – Read the passage again and say short prayers related to the themes, words, or phrases of the passageContemplate – Read the passage a final time and then sit quietly to reflect asking yourself the question: “What is one thing from this passage I will take into my life?”

Welcome to Week 1 of our Christmas series at The Table! This week, we kick things off with some of our favorite (and funniest) Christmas stories, including paintball and holiday fires, before diving into the first theme of Advent: Hope.We also debate and rank our favorite Christmas movies, share the meaning behind the hope we have in Christ, and look at how this Advent season can shape the way we wait for Him. Cozy up with cocoa, cookies, or just your favorite Christmas blanket, and join us for a festive and meaningful start to the series.For the blog Ben mentions, check HERE.

In the final episode of our evangelism series, Tyler sits down with Pastor Matt and Pastor Ben to talk through what happens after you start a Gospel conversation. How do you respond when someone shuts it down immediately? What about when they want more time to think? And how do you walk with someone who’s ready to trust Jesus?Using the simple framework of red lights, yellow lights, and green lights, the three of us unpack practical and grace-filled ways to handle invitations, responses, and follow-up. Tyler shares a story about his old habit of debating atheists online (a classic red-light mistake), and we break down how to respond with patience, clarity, and love in each phase of the conversation.As we wrap up our evangelism series, this episode gives you the tools, confidence, and encouragement to carry Gospel conversations forward in your everyday life.

In week two of our evangelism series, Pastor Matt joins the conversation as we dive into the practical side of sharing your faith - how to transition everyday conversations into gospel conversations without forcing it or fumbling it.We unpack what belongs in your “evangelism toolbox,” why different situations call for different tools, and how to recognize the moments God is already opening. Plus, we put it all into practice with some real-time role-playing, testing out transition statements you can start using right away.If you’ve ever wished sharing Jesus felt more natural, more confident, and maybe even a little fun, this is your episode.Gospelling ToolsFour Spiritual LawsGod loves you and created you to know Him personally | John 3:16, John 17:3Man is sinful and separated from God, so we cannot know Him personally or experience His love | Romans 3:23, Romans 6:23Jesus Christ is God's only provision for man's sin. Through Him alone we can know God personally and experience His love | Romans 5:8, 1 Corinthians 15:3-6, John 14:6We must individually receive Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord; then we can know God personally and experience His love | John 1:12, Ephesians 2:8-9, John 3:1-8, Revelation 3:20Romans RoadAdmitting Sin | Romans 3:23Understanding the Consequence | Romans 6:23Receiving God's Free Gift | Romans 3:23, Romans 5:8Confessing & Believing | Romans 10:9-10Finding Peace | Romans 5:1, Romans 10:13The Best NewsBad News | Our sin has separated us from God | Romans 3:23, Romans 6:23Worse News | We can do nothing to remove our sin | Ephesians 2:8Good News | At the cross, Jesus did what we couldn't do for ourselves, He died on a cross and shed His blood to pay for our sins | 1 John 1:7Best News | Through faith, we freely receive forgiveness and eternal life | Romans 6:23The Three CirclesGod's Design | Genesis 1:31Sin | Romans 3:23; Romans 6:23Brokenness | Romans 1:25The Gospel | John 3:16, Colossians 2:14, Romans 6:23Repent & Believe | Mark 1:15, Ephesians 2:8-9, Romans 10:9Recover & Pursue | Philippians 2:13, Ephesians 2:10

Have you ever stopped for a free sample at Sam’s Club? (Be honest, we all have.) In this episode of The Table, we use that simple moment to explore a deeper truth about evangelism. Why do we share our faith? How can we make everyday conversations about Jesus natural, loving, and real? Join us as we talk about the heart behind evangelism - inviting others to “taste and see that the Lord is good.”

In this episode, we sit down with Maggie Blaine, our ministry assistant and long-time member of Fellowship West. Maggie shares how she came to faith as a teenager after not growing up in church, and how God has shaped her heart for ministry ever since. From discovering the hope of the gospel to walking alongside others through GriefShare and women’s discipleship, Maggie’s story is one of grace, healing, and the beauty of helping others find the same faith and comfort she found in Christ.

In this episode we sit down with Susan Littleton to hear an incredible story of redemption, healing, and hope.Adopted as a child and later reconnected with her birth mother, Susan shares how that encounter led her to Christ and changed her life forever. But her story doesn’t end there—after years of debilitating back pain that left her unable to stand in worship, God brought physical healing and renewed joy. Now, she stands with lifted hands, a living testimony of His grace and power.This is a story of being found, healed, and restored by the One who never stops pursuing us.

In this episode, we sit down with Georgia Proctor, who shares her journey of faith through life’s highs and lows. Raised in a challenging home but shown the love of God through her grandmother, Georgia was saved at a young age. She candidly talks about walking away from the church for a season, and the powerful ways God drew her back to Him. Her story is a beautiful reminder that God’s love never lets go, no matter the season of life.

Sometimes God shows up in the most unexpected places…like Craigslist. In this episode, Ross Noakes shares the incredible story of how he came to know Jesus through a chance encounter online. Hear about the twists, turns, and surprising ways God works in our lives, and be encouraged by how His grace can reach anyone, anywhere.

In the final episode of our Optimize Your Worship series, we look ahead to the ultimate destination of worship—heaven itself. What we practice now through daily habits, spiritual disciplines, and gathered worship is shaping us for the eternal hallelujahs we’ll one day join in before the throne of God.From Daily Habits to Eternal Hallelujahs reminds us that worship is both our present calling and our eternal future. The way we worship now—through Scripture, prayer, singing, and surrender—isn’t just preparation; it’s a foretaste of glory.

Because our livestream didn’t work this week, we’re bringing you a special Tuesday edition of The Table, we recap Pastor Matt’s sermon from John 15:9–16:4. In this passage, Jesus reminds His disciples—and us—that the world will hate those who follow Him. But the call of Christ is clear: our response to hate must be love.If you missed Sunday, or just need encouragement to live faithfully in a world that opposes the gospel, this conversation will point you back to Christ’s example and command.

What do Giraffes and Grizzly Bears have to do with worship? In Part 3 of our Optimize Your Worship series, we're talking about what it means to engage our whole selves in worship, including our bodies. We'll explore why physical response in worship isn't just optional - it's a powerful way to honor God and encourage others. This episode will help you laugh a little, think a lot, and maybe even move a bit more the next time you gather with God's people!

In Part 2 of Optimize Your Worship, we explore the joy and blessing that comes when God’s people gather to worship together. Drawing from Scripture—and even a little help from Buddy the Elf—we look at how corporate singing unites us, strengthens our faith, and reminds us of the hope we share in Christ.This episode of The Table will encourage you to see worship not only as an offering to God but also as a gift He uses to shape and bless His people.

Worship is more than music - it's the way we respond to God with our whole lives. In this first episode of our Optimize Your Worship series, we take a step back and ask: What really is worship? Why does the church sing, and what makes singing such a powerful expression of our faith?Join us as we dig into the heart of worship, uncover why it's central to the life of every believer, and lay the foundation for a life that glorifies God in every moment.Examples of Singing from ScriptureExodus 15:1-2Psalm 96:1-2Psalm 47:6Isaiah 52:9Luke 19:39-41Colossians 3:16Acts 16:25James 5:13Revelation 5:9

In this episode of The Table, we welcome back Matt Maestas, a longtime friend of Fellowship West and a member of our teaching team. Though he now lives in Wyoming, Matt continues to pour into our church family by preaching a few times each year. In this conversation, Matt shares about his journey in ministry, what God is teaching him in this current season, and why he loves opening God’s Word with the people of Fellowship West.If you're interested in Matt's leadership development, check out his website HERE.

In this episode of The Table, we sit down with Mitch Hancock, our Legends Campus Minister. Mitch shares his journey of faith, how God led him into ministry, and the heart he carries for serving the people of Fellowship West’s Legends Campus. You’ll hear about his passion for the gospel and how God is at work in our community through his leadership.

In Part 2 of Our Story, God's Story: How God Built Fellowship West, we continue the journey by looking at the years of becoming an independent church and replanting Parkway Baptist to launch our Legends Campus. Along the way, we celebrate God's faithfulness, reflect on the lessons He's taught us, and look ahead with hope to what He will continue to do through Fellowship West.

Before there was Fellowship West, there was a calling, a small group of faithful people, and a story only God could write. In this first part of our two-part history series, we go back to the beginning, when Pastor Matt was called to plant a church in the Kansas City area, a core team formed, and God led to an unexpected partnership with Bonner Springs Baptist Church. Hear from the people who lived it, as they share how God provided, directed, and wove their stories together to form the foundation of Fellowship West.

This week at The Table we sit down with our student pastor Matt Knight to hear his story, how his life has been radically changed by the Gospel and how he was called into ministry. Pull up a seat and hear how God's faithfulness in Matt's life continues to shape him as he leads the next generation at Fellowship West!

This week, we’re turning the tables—literally—as we sit down with our usual host, Pastor Tyler Mitchell, to hear his story, his heart for discipleship, and what drives his passion for helping people grow in their walk with Jesus.Tyler serves as our Discipleship Pastor at Fellowship West, and while he’s often the one asking the questions, today we get to hear about his journey—how God has shaped his calling, what discipleship looks like in real life, and why spiritual growth is a team effort.Whether you’re new to Fellowship West or you've known Tyler for years, this episode will give you a fresh glimpse into the man behind the mic and the mission behind the ministry.🎧 Pull up a seat and join us At The Table.Interested in getting involved in a group at Fellowship West? Check out the Groups Page on our Church Center App HERE

In this episode, we flip the mic on one of our regular co-hosts—Pastor Ben Spencer, our Worship Pastor at Fellowship West.Ben shares his journey into worship ministry, what it means to lead people into the presence of God, and how he’s grown through both the platform and behind-the-scenes moments. You'll hear his heart for the church, his vision for worship, how God as moved in his life.Whether you know Ben from Sundays or the podcast, this conversation offers a deeper look into the passion and purpose behind the songs we sing and the culture we’re building together.

This week, we sit down with our Kids Pastor, Ryan Linduff, to hear his story, his heart for the next generation, how he got into children’s ministry, and why investing in kids is one of the most important things we can do as a church.If you’ve ever wondered what fuels our Kids Ministry—or how you can be part of it—this episode is for you.If you're interested in serving at Fellowship West, fill out THIS FORM HERE

In this special episode, we sit down with our Lead Pastor, Matt Clough, to hear the heart behind his calling, his journey in ministry, and the vision he carries for Fellowship West.From personal stories to leadership insights, Pastor Matt shares what it means to follow Jesus faithfully, love the local church, and lead with both conviction and humility.Whether you’ve been at Fellowship West for years or you're just getting connected, this conversation will help you see the heart behind the mission and the man who helps lead it.

"When All Things Are Made New: The Blessed Hope of the End Times"Eschatology isn’t about fear—it’s about hope. In this episode, we explore the promise of Christ’s return, the renewal of all things, and why the end of the story changes how we live today.Listen now and be encouraged by the hope that anchors our faith.

The Church is more than a place - it's a people. A Family. A movement. In this episode, we explore what it really means to be the Church and how God calls us to live on mission together.

Who is the Holy Spirit—and why does He matter in our daily lives? In this episode, we dive into the person and work of the Holy Spirit, exploring His role in salvation, His presence in the believer, and His power in the Church today.The Holy Spirit is not a force or a feeling—He is God, fully personal and actively working in the world. Join us as we unpack what it means to know, follow, and be filled by the Spirit.

Who is Jesus—really? In this episode of The Table, we explore the wonder of Christ: fully God, fully man, the one who stepped into our world to redeem and restore. We’ll unpack why the doctrine of Christ is not just a theological concept but the heartbeat of our faith.Join us as we reflect on the beauty, mystery, and life-changing reality of God with us.

What is God really like? In this episode of The Table, we dive into the foundational truths about God's nature, attributes, and why what we believe about Him shapes everything else in our faith.

On this episode of The Table, we are continuing our series discussing some important topics of doctrine and theology. Today, Ben Spencer, Worship Pastor at Fellowship West, and Tyler Mitchell, Discipleship Pastor at Fellowship West, discuss the doctrine of revelation and canonicity.ADDITIONAL RESOURCESChirst Centered Exposition CommentariesThe Bible Project

On this episode of The Table, we are continuing our series discussing some important topics of doctrine and theology. Today, Tyler Mitchell, Discipleship Pastor at Fellowship West, and Ben Spencer, Worship Pastor at Fellowship West, discuss the doctrine of Humanity and Sin.

On this episode of The Table, we are beginning a series discussing some important topics of doctrine and theology. We are joined by Ben Spencer, Worship Pastor at Fellowship West as we discuss the doctrine of Salvation.