VCLA Podcast

Are you living in your city with one foot out the door? In a culture addicted to "sampling"—from coffee shops and gyms to churches and relationships—it is easy to mistake browsing for living. But spiritual vitality doesn't happen in a sample cup; it happens in the soil. In this powerful Family Sunday message, we explore how to break the cycle of loneliness and isolation by making three radical, "covenantal" commitments. Drawing from Jeremiah’s ancient letter to the exiles in Babylon, we learn that God isn't calling us to just tolerate our surroundings or wait for the "greener grass" of another zip code. He is calling us to plant roots, build houses, and seek the peace of the city where He has placed us. Whether you’ve been in your city for twenty years or two weeks, this sermon is an invitation to stop drifting and start flourishing in the spiritual family God has prepared for you.

Have you ever felt like you’ve drifted too far from your purpose? In this powerful message, we dive into John 21 to witness one of the most tender and transformative encounters in the Bible. Whether you are struggling with a "massive failure" or simply feel stagnant in your faith, this sermon is a reminder that your failure does not cancel your calling. Jesus doesn't meet Peter with a lecture or a rebuke; He meets him on the shore with a meal and a mission. Watch as we explore how Jesus systematically undoes the damage of our past—not to shame us, but to set us free. If you feel stuck in the "drift" of life, it's time to come back to the shore and hear Jesus calling you "friend".

Have you ever felt like your reality hasn't caught up to your expectations of God? We often walk into our relationship with Jesus with a specific "version" of how we think life should go, only to find ourselves navigating unexpected roadblocks, family drama, or unanswered prayers. In this powerful message from Luke 24, we explore the journey of two disciples on the road to Emmaus who were blinded by their own "hope deferred." Discover how to move past the "fake it till you make it" culture and find an extraordinary encounter with God in the most ordinary parts of your life.

Is it okay to doubt? In this powerful message, we dive into the "spiritual FOMO" (Fear Of Missing Out) of Thomas—the disciple who missed the greatest moment in human history: the resurrection of Jesus. If you’ve ever felt like everyone else is experiencing God while you’re left with questions, silence, and fear, this sermon is for you. We explore why Jesus isn't repelled by your uncertainty or your terror; in fact, He uses them as an invitation to draw closer than ever before. Discover how to take "baby steps" of faith when the waves are crashing around you and why the nearness of Jesus is more important than the answers to your questions.

Are you following the right leader? On this Palm Sunday, we dive into the powerful tension of Holy Week—the journey of Jesus from the triumphant entry in Jerusalem to the sacrifice of the cross. In this moving message, we contrast two different parades: the Roman parade of military force and the humble, peaceful procession of Jesus on a donkey. Many in the crowd cheered for a king who would change their circumstances, but Jesus came as the King who would change their hearts.

Is anger ruling your life, your home, or your commute? In this powerful message, we dive deep beneath the surface of our "frustrations" to discover what is actually fueling our outbursts. Most of us think we are just "stressed" or "dealing with difficult people," but the Bible points to something much deeper. In this sermon, you will discover: Why Fear is often the primary driver of anxiety and rage. How Pain and past trauma manifest as a lack of patience today. The trap of Powerlessness and why we try to be "judge, jury, and executioner." How to experience the Perfect Love of God that casts out every fear.   Anger isn't something to just "manage"—it's something to release. Join us as we learn to invite the presence of Jesus into our broken memories and find the restorative healing that only He can provide.

Welcome back to our final week of our Season of Stillness. As we journey through Lent and move toward Easter, this weekly 10-minute guided prayer is an invitation to slow down, quiet your heart, and make space for the presence of God. In each episode, we’ll pause, reflect on Scripture, and practice listening prayer together. Whether you’re starting your day, taking a midday break, or winding down in the evening, find a quiet place, take a deep breath, and let this be a moment to rest with the Lord. Thank you for joining us each week as we pause, reflect, and meditate on God’s Word together.

Are you living in a cycle of "never enough"? In this provocative message, we dive deep into the heart of greed—not just as a financial issue, but as a spiritual condition that affects us all. Using the teachings of Jesus and the writings of Paul, we explore how greed manifests in three distinct forms: selfishness, pride, and fear. Whether you are struggling with the pressures of scarcity mindset or the temptation to "show off" in a culture obsessed with status, this sermon offers a path to true freedom. Discover why Jesus called the successful businessman a "fool" and learn the ancient Christian practices—like secret generosity and daily gratitude—that can break the power of money over your life. It’s time to stop building bigger barns and start becoming rich towards God.

Welcome back to our fourth week of our Season of Stillness. As we journey through Lent and move toward Easter, this weekly 10-minute guided prayer is an invitation to slow down, quiet your heart, and make space for the presence of God. In each episode, we’ll pause, reflect on Scripture, and practice listening prayer together. Whether you’re starting your day, taking a midday break, or winding down in the evening, find a quiet place, take a deep breath, and let this be a moment to rest with the Lord. We invite you to join us each week as we pause, reflect, and meditate on God’s Word together.

Is the "Idol of Control" running your life? In this week’s message, we continue our deep dive into the Gospel of Matthew, focusing on the final—and perhaps most epic—temptation of Jesus in the wilderness. We explore how Satan offers a "Crown without a Cross"—the promise of power, security, and a perfect life without the necessity of suffering or sacrifice. From hilarious debates about 90s Christian culture to a profound look at the book of Deuteronomy, we uncover why we are so prone to "grabbing" for authority when we don't trust God’s sovereignty. If you’ve been feeling anxious about the future, overwhelmed by the news, or exhausted from trying to manage every outcome, this sermon is a roadmap to finding peace through the "antidote" of true worship.

Welcome back to our third week of our Season of Stillness. As we journey through Lent and move toward Easter, this weekly 10-minute guided prayer is an invitation to slow down, quiet your heart, and make space for the presence of God. In each episode, we’ll pause, reflect on Scripture, and practice listening prayer together. Whether you’re starting your day, taking a midday break, or winding down in the evening, find a quiet place, take a deep breath, and let this be a moment to rest with the Lord. We invite you to join us each week as we pause, reflect, and meditate on God’s Word together.

Are you tired of feeling like you have to perform to be noticed? In this week’s message, Pastor Joel explores the second temptation of Jesus in Matthew 4. We often find ourselves in "spectacle mode"—trying to force God’s hand, demanding proof of His love, or taking shortcuts to avoid suffering. Using the hilarious yet poignant example of his dog Gibson, Joel illustrates how our anxiety leads us to "freak out" when we feel ignored by God. But Jesus models a different way: the Hidden Life. Learn why the "way of the cross" is better than the "way of the spotlight" and how you can find true security in being known by your Father in secret.

Welcome back to our second week of our Season of Stillness. As we journey through Lent and move toward Easter, this weekly 10-minute guided prayer is an invitation to slow down, quiet your heart, and make space for the presence of God. In each episode, we’ll pause, reflect on Scripture, and practice listening prayer together. Whether you’re starting your day, taking a midday break, or winding down in the evening, find a quiet place, take a deep breath, and let this be a moment to rest with the Lord. We invite you to join us each week as we pause, reflect, and meditate on God’s Word together.

Are you feeling alone, exhausted, or questioning your purpose? You might be in a "wilderness season." In this powerful opening to our Lent series, Pastor Josh explores the profound connection between our spiritual highs and the refining fires that often follow. Drawing from Matthew 3 and 4, we dive deep into the temptation of Jesus. We often think Satan’s first attack was about food, but it was actually a strategic strike against identity. Learn why the enemy wants you to question if you are truly loved by God and how to fight back using the only thing that truly satisfies: the living Word of God. If you’ve been trying to "turn rocks into bread" by overworking, obsessing over your image, or striving for human approval, this message is for you. It’s time to stop grabbing at perishing stones and start feasting on the lavish, redeeming love of the Father.

Welcome to the first week of our Season of Stillness. As we journey through Lent and move toward Easter, this weekly 10-minute guided prayer is an invitation to slow down, quiet your heart, and make space for the presence of God. In each episode, we’ll pause, reflect on Scripture, and practice listening prayer together. Whether you’re starting your day, taking a midday break, or winding down in the evening, find a quiet place, take a deep breath, and let this be a moment to rest with the Lord. We invite you to join us each week as we pause, reflect, and meditate on God’s Word together.

"Lord, I believe; help my unbelief!" Have you ever felt like you were coming down from a "mountain top" experience only to be met with the immediate chaos of real life? Maybe you’ve tried to fix your marriage, your finances, or your health in your own strength, only to find yourself exhausted and burnt out. In this powerful continuation of our series on the journey of the disciples, we dive into Mark 9. While Jesus was being transfigured in glory on the mountain, the other nine disciples were at base camp failing miserably to help a desperate father and his son. If you are operating on empty and need Jesus to do what you know you cannot do, this message is for you. It’s time to stop trying and start praying. Repent of self-reliance. Re-center on His authority. Everything is possible for the one who believes.

Are you constantly searching for "more"? Whether it's the endless scroll on Instagram, the next career promotion, or the Friday night Netflix binge, we all feel an "itch" that this world just can't seem to scratch. In this powerful message, Pastor Josh dives into Matthew 17 to explore the story of the Transfiguration. Discover why C.S. Lewis believed our unsatisfied desires are the greatest proof that we were made for a different world. Learn how Peter, James, and John’s mountain-top experience reveals that Jesus is not just a miracle worker or a teacher, but the preeminent Son of God who meets us in our fear and whispers, "Do not be afraid". If you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or spiritually hungry, this sermon is an invitation to look up and see "only Jesus"

Does it feel like your world is collapsing? In this powerful message, we dive deep into Habakkuk Chapter 3 to discover that trusting God isn't a "quick fix"—it's a process. Whether you are facing financial strain, a broken marriage, or physical anxiety that makes your "bones tremble," there is a way to move from fear to faith. Pastor Josh shares a relatable (and hilarious) story about a Nintendo Switch 2 and the trap of looking for shortcuts, reminding us that "slow and steady" trust is what actually wins the race. Learn how to trade your anxiety for "deer’s feet" and find the strength to tread on the heights, even when the mountain hasn't moved yet. In this podcast, you will learn: - Why "shortcuts" in your spiritual life often lead to dead ends. - How to handle a nervous system that feels like it’s "decaying" from stress. - The 4 "R" steps to rebuilding trust when God seems silent. - An imaginative prayer exercise to see Jesus standing with you at your insurmountable mountain.

Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or constantly craving "more" despite having everything you need? In this convicting and powerful message, we dive into Habakkuk 2 to uncover the three primary idols that dominate modern culture: Security, Escape, and Control. The human heart is an "idol factory," as John Calvin once said. We often take good or neutral things and turn them into gods, demanding they provide the favor and safety that only the Lord can give. Whether it’s the pursuit of financial stability, the numbing cycle of digital escapism, or the attempt to manifest our own reality, these false gods eventually "bite" back, leaving us with shame instead of glory. Join us as we learn why the only solution to our restless striving is to behold the preeminence of God and find silence in His holy temple. It's time to throw the idols off the throne and return to the one true King.

Are you feeling overwhelmed, hurried, or anxious about the future? In this week's message, we continue our journey through the prophetic book of Habakkuk, focusing on the powerful lessons found in Chapter 2. Most of us react to uncertainty by trying to grab control, seeking comfort in our own strength. But Habakkuk shows us a different way: The Watchtower. Instead of losing his mind in the chaos, Habakkuk stations himself to observe, listen, and actively wait for a revelation from God. If you are in a season where the revelation feels like it’s lingering, remember: It will certainly come; it will not delay. Watch and be encouraged to slow down and trust the faithfulness of Jesus.

Are you walking into 2026 with high expectations, only to feel like reality is already falling apart? In this powerful message, Pastor Josh opens our brand-new series, "Staying Grounded," by diving into the small but mighty book of Habakkuk. Unlike other prophets who speak for God to the people, Habakkuk speaks for us—crying out with honesty, frustration, and even anger when it feels like God is silent or distant. Through a hilarious (and painful!) personal story about a snowboarding trip gone wrong and a deep dive into the history of Israel in 605 BC, we learn how to navigate the "chasm" between what we wanted and what we’re currently experiencing. If you’ve ever asked, "God, where are you?" or "How long must I call for help?" this sermon is for you.

What do you do when God gives you a sign? In this powerful Christmas message, we dive deep into Matthew 2 and the real story of the Magi. Forget the sentimental nativity scenes—the Magi were intellectual powerhouses, astronomers, and "outsiders" who traveled for two years across a dangerous desert just to worship a toddler. Whether you are a lifelong follower of Jesus or someone still "working through the God thing," this sermon challenges us to look for our own "star moments." God is already moving in your life—the question is: Are you willing to get up and follow the evidence? Have you ever had a "Star Moment" where you felt God’s presence?

Pastor Josh takes us through the Gospel accounts in Luke 1 and Matthew 1, revealing how the willing "Yes" of two teenagers laid the foundation for the entire Christian faith. Learn why the historical and theological necessity of the Immaculate Conception is central to the Gospel, and how their faith—in the face of confusion, social ostracization, and mystery—serves as a powerful invitation for us today. The world needs our "Yes." Find out what God is asking you to do right now and what it means to truly trust in His plan, even in the "gray in the in between."

Are you tired of feeling like you have to argue people into the Kingdom of God? Do you want to see your workplace, your city, and your family transformed, but don't know where to start? In this final message of our Romans series, we dive into Chapter 15 to uncover the Apostle Paul’s personal "secret sauce" for ministry. Paul didn't just tell the Romans what to do; he showed them how to live. We move from "Do as I say" to "Do as I do." Join us as we explore the four missional pillars that allowed Paul to shake the foundations of the Roman Empire. We are discussing why humility trumps arrogance, why we must stop building on other people's foundations, and why the Gospel is incomplete without the power of signs and wonders. If you are ready to stop playing it safe and start living with audacious faith, this message is for you.

Pastor Joel dives into Romans 14 and 15, anchoring the church's call to radical acceptance and unity in the profound reality of Christ's welcome. In a city as diverse and intense as Los Angeles, Paul’s command to "Accept one another, just as Christ accepted you" (Romans 15:7) becomes a prophetic sign pointing to the Kingdom of God. This sermon challenges us to choose unity over uniformity, peace over being right, and Christ's welcome over our own comfort, especially when dealing with non-essential, disputable matters. Learn the two core truths that can transform your community and how to become a bridge-builder in a world filled with tribes and echo chambers.

In a world filled with anxiety, overwhelm, and conflicting desires, how do followers of Jesus navigate complex dynamics and make wise decisions? Pastor Josh continues our series in the Book of Romans, pivoting from what we learn and feel to how we act in the world. The Apostle Paul gives us two simple yet staggering foundations for life as a Christian: Honor and Love. This sermon dives deep into Romans 13, challenging us to submit to governing authorities and pay what is due—even when it's repulsive or uncomfortable. More than that, we are called to live in a continuing debt of love to one another, fulfilling all the commandments through a fervent desire to deposit love, not pain or gain, into every human being. Discover how choosing honor and love, even in the midst of broken systems and difficult relationships, is an act of worship and the very definition of a life lived with Jesus.

Are you tired of trying to change only to fall back into old habits? This sermon is the GAME CHANGER you've been waiting for. Pastor Josh dives into Romans 12:1-2, marking a massive shift in Paul's letter from deep theology to radical, everyday spiritual formation and practice. This isn't self-help or 'white-knuckle' religion; it's a Spirit-powered process to become more like Jesus Christ! Learn the foundational motive for change—God's extravagant mercy—and discover the practical steps: Offering Your Body as a living sacrifice and the Active Renewal of Your Mind. Plus, get a simple, unforgettable acronym (V.I.M.) from Dallas Willard to put transformation into daily practice. If you are ready to break free from the patterns of this world (arrogance, selfishness, bitterness) and walk into God's good, pleasing, and perfect will, then this message is for you!

You've tried everything. You've worked hard, you've been faithful, and you've followed all the rules, but you still feel like you're just outside the favor of God—close, but so far. Or maybe you're in a season of brokenness, doubt, and rebellion, feeling completely lost and unable to see the way forward. In this powerful sermon, Pastor unpacks the incredible, and sometimes ridiculous, way Jesus dispenses His mysterious mercy. Drawing from Romans 10 & 11 and the incredible story of the man born blind in the Gospel of John 9, we explore why God sometimes hardens the religious and runs after the lost, and how all of it is designed to display His unimaginable grace. If you are feeling the "blindness of religion," the "blindness of your broken past," or the "blindness of your doubts" (00:24), this message is for you. Discover that your healing won't come from your works or your zealousness, but from an undeniable, mysterious, and even "mud-like" encounter with Jesus Christ.

This week, Pastor Josh dives into one of the Bible's most challenging and misunderstood chapters: Romans 9. We explore Paul's anguish and the profound distinction Jesus makes in the Parable of the Prodigal Son between the rebellious sinner (the younger brother) and the self-righteous believer (the older brother). Many of us who grew up in the church, who were "faithful," who "never ran away," struggle with the free, unmerited grace that God offers. We pursue righteousness through works, not faith, and in doing so, we stumble over the very Jesus who is offering us life. The good news is that God's mercy and desire for redemption are for both the religious and the rebellious alike. Stop working to earn what has already been offered! Learn how to drop the self-righteousness, own your true status, and receive the whole, forgiven, and loved status that God offers you—not based on your effort or desire, but solely on His boundless mercy.

Is following Jesus hard right now? You're not alone. In this powerful sermon on Romans 8, Pastor Josh dives deep into the reality of Christian suffering and the mind-blowing, purposeful plan God has for you in the midst of it.  Many people quote Romans 8:28 as a "coffee mug verse," but this message unpacks the profound theological context of Paul’s words, showing that God is not surprised or worried by your pain—He is sovereignly, intentionally using it. Discover the "chain of salvation" and how your present weakness is actually a holy space where the Holy Spirit intercedes for you with "wordless groans" (Romans 8:26). Learn how your hardship is a "refiner's fire," conforming you into the very image of Jesus Christ so you can bring redemption to a broken world. This is the hope that makes sense of your hardest days. Don't be ashamed to cry out—God can handle your deepest grief!

Do your good desires keep turning into crippling, ungodly obsessions? You're not alone. This sermon explores the deeply human—and deeply Christian—struggle against the "wretched man" war Paul describes in Romans 7. We all want good things like health, wealth, or a loving marriage, but they quickly become idols that rule our lives and steal our peace. It's not more religious rules or accountability structures—it's about reorienting your deepest longings. Discover how obsessively desiring the Holy Spirit is the only way to keep your desires in check and finally experience the life and peace (shalom) you crave.

Are you tired of feeling stuck in a cycle of sin, shame, and fear, even though you follow Jesus? This powerful message from Romans 6:11-14 is your wakeup call to embrace the freedom that's already yours. Pastor Josh uses the history of Juneteenth to illustrate the spiritual reality: many of us have been declared free, yet we still live as if we're slaves to our past and brokenness. The core message is twofold: You need to hear that you are free, and you need to live like you are free. Learn how to "count yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus" (Romans 6:11) and discover why the only way to truly live in your freedom is within a committed community ("y'all").

Get ready to tap your feet with the incredible Cheryl Tellis! A beloved member of the Vineyard family, Cheryl opens up about everything from her college disco days in India to the life-changing decision to get baptized as an adult. First, she faces a brutal head-to-head competition to crown the Ultimate Dance Style (spoiler: her favorite is banned). Then, she shares her deeply moving faith journey, revealing how growing up Catholic and searching for the personal truth of Jesus led her to a profound, freeing revelation of Galatians 2:20. Her story is a beautiful testament to God’s patience, faithfulness, and the surprising way He uses food and friendship to lead us home. Plus, hear what she thinks heaven's dance floor will be like!

Discover the mind-blowing truth from Romans 5 that changes absolutely everything about your faith and your life! Many of us struggle with anxiety, feel we have to earn God's favor, or question the purpose of our pain. In this powerful sermon, Pastor Brianne walks us through two non-negotiable realities: we have peace with God because of Jesus, and our suffering has purpose. Stop looking for escape (the "window seat") and start reorienting your focus to the Captain of your journey—Jesus Christ. Learn how suffering isn't punitive, but a process intended to build incredible spiritual strength in you, leading to unshakable, eternal hope. This message will radically transform your understanding of your relationship with God, freeing you from a performance-based faith and empowering you to embrace perseverance.

Join us for a hilarious and insightful chat with Vineyard Church's Executive Pastor, Megan Budd, as she walks (four steps!) from her office to the mic. Megan gives us a peek into the surprisingly non-stop world of an Executive Pastor, from wrangling "Kingdom Cash" in kids' ministry to debating playground quality. Megan opens up about her powerful journey of faith, growing up in Arizona, being a dedicated "tomboy," navigating a high-school world of Mormon friends, and how the Lord took her from pursuing corporate business to becoming a "Super Volunteer"—and eventually a full-time leader—in ministry. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who feels called but not yet equipped!

In this life-changing sermon from Romans 3:21-26, Pastor Josh dives deep into the heart of the Gospel: Justification by Faith. If you've ever felt the crushing weight of guilt, sin, or not being "good enough," this message is for you. We all fall short of God's glory—no one is righteous, not one. That's the bad news. But here's the incredible news: Through the amazing grace and finished work of Jesus Christ, you are not just seen as righteous, but you are definitively declared and deemed righteous by God! Stop striving. Start celebrating. Discover your new identity as a holy, blameless child of the Most High God today!

Ever felt like you're a "good person"? Like you're better than others because you follow the rules? This sermon from Romans 3 will shatter that idea and show you the real problem with our own righteousness. Join Pastor Josh as he unpacks Paul's powerful argument that every single one of us, insiders and outsiders alike, are broken and in desperate need of a righteous God. In this hard-hitting message, you'll discover why self-righteousness is a dead end and why true hope is found not in our efforts, but in the overwhelming grace of Jesus Christ. This isn't a feel-good message; it's a profound truth that will expose your brokenness and lead you to the radical wholeness only God can provide. Get ready to drink from a fire hydrant of truth—your perspective on yourself and your need for Jesus is about to be transformed.

Join us on the podcast for a fantastic conversation with AJ, a member of our Vineyard Church family. We start with some lighthearted but important questions, like her take on the five-second rule and the best breakfast foods. But the conversation quickly goes deeper as AJ shares her powerful and unique story. From her parents' conversions, to her own childhood growing up in China and navigating a single, diverse "foreigner-only" church, her journey is anything but ordinary. She opens up about the culture shock of returning to the U.S. and the challenges of finding a church that felt like home amidst so many denominations. You'll hear how she found her way to Vineyard and the community that made her stay. It's a story of faith, food, and finding your place.

Do you feel ashamed of your past or what you believe? You're not alone. In this powerful sermon, Pastor Josh dives into Romans 1:16-17, revealing why the Gospel isn't just good news—it's the most life-changing, world-altering message we could ever share. Discover the three reasons Paul was completely unashamed of his faith and how this same boldness can transform your life, your relationships, and your entire outlook. Learn why your righteousness has nothing to do with your own efforts and everything to do with a God who has already won the war for you. This sermon will challenge you to move past shame, embrace God's power, and live with radical, unashamed confidence.

Join the staff of Vineyard Church for a hilarious and shockingly candid episode! Executive Pastor Megan sits down with the Vineyard team for a speed round of "Never Have I Ever." From peeing in the shower to winging a sermon, they spill all the beans and give you an unfiltered look at their lives, work, and the wild world of ministry. Get ready to laugh and discover what's really happening behind the scenes. Plus, get a sneak peek at what's coming to the church this fall, including a new sermon series, baptisms, and collectives. This is the podcast you didn't know you needed!

Are you feeling burnt out, exhausted, and overwhelmed? In a culture of constant hustle, we’ve lost the rhythm God designed for us. Join Pastor Joel as he shares his personal, transformative journey on a sabbatical and a pilgrimage across Spain. He uncovers the ancient, yet vital, truth of Sabbath and how it's not a luxury—it's oxygen for our souls. Drawing from his own experiences climbing physical and spiritual mountains, Pastor Joel reveals why work empties us but rest fills us. This sermon will challenge your view of rest and equip you with practical steps to find true, restorative peace in the midst of a chaotic world.

Join us on the From the Vine podcast with special guest Mieko Poindexter! A recent high school grad. Mieko shares stories about her life; She dives into her experience growing up in the Catholic Church, finding her way to Vineyard, and her journey of starting a Bible study at her Catholic high school. Mieko also gives us a sneak peek into her incredible plans for the next nine months as she embarks on a mission trip around the world. Get ready for laughs, heartwarming stories, and a powerful testimony of faith and obedience!

Ever feel like you have to fight back, lash out, or prove your worth? In a world that glorifies anger and demands justice at every turn, what does it mean to be a follower of Jesus? Pastor Josh dives deep into the biblical concept of meekness and gentleness, revealing that it's not about being weak, but about having power under control. This sermon challenges the modern American definition of meekness, which often equates to a lack of courage or strength. Instead, Pastor Josh illustrates how true gentleness is a profound act of faith—trusting God to be your vindicator while you choose peace over rage. Discover how this counter-cultural approach to life can lead to true rest for your soul and become a powerful witness to a watching world.

Join us on this episode of "From the Vine" with James Warwick, a Chicago native who shares his incredible journey to faith. We talk about everything from the best French fry shapes and overrated fast food joints to growing up after his parents' divorce and finding his way to Vineyard Church. James opens up about his personal struggles and the powerful transformation he experienced through Jesus, culminating in his decision to get baptized. His story is a powerful reminder that with faith and community, true change is possible. Get ready to be inspired!

In this powerful sermon on self-control, Brianne dives deep into the meaning of this often-misunderstood fruit of the Spirit. She challenges the common misconception that self-control is about gripping the steering wheel of our lives tighter. Instead, she reveals the biblical truth that true self-control is about surrendering our lives—body, mind, and soul—to the one who is already in perfect control: Jesus Christ. This message shows us that freedom is found not in our own efforts, but in bringing our whole selves, our communities, and our world under God's loving and sovereign control.

Get ready for a powerful testimony! Join us as we sit down with Tommy, a prayer minister and counselor from our community. He takes us back to his wild days growing up in Venice Beach, hanging out with the beatniks and living in the midst of the '60s counterculture. But a life of heavy drug use and emotional pain led him on a desperate search for meaning. In this episode, Tommy shares the incredible story of how he went from a high school dropout shooting heroin to a respected minister and counselor, all thanks to a direct, life-changing encounter with Jesus Christ. This is a story of radical transformation, second chances, and the profound power of God's love.

Do you ever feel like faithfulness is a one-way street? What if the Bible reveals a two-way street that changes everything? In this sermon, Pastor Josh dives deep into Galatians 5 to uncover the true meaning of faithfulness as a fruit of the spirit. He breaks down what it means to be faithful to God and how that directly impacts our faithfulness to others. This message will challenge you to build your life on a solid rock, not on shifting sands, and discover the biblical practices of a trustworthy life. Learn how to honor your word, protect confidences, and stick with people through thick and thin, just as Jesus does for us.

In this episode, we sit down with Loida Blackley, a mother, wife, and member of our church community, to hear her incredible story. She shares her opinions on Mexican food, the unique flavors of her Guatemalan heritage, and a powerful testimony of how Jesus transformed her life. After years of struggling with depression and PTSD from her time as an active-duty soldier, Loida found healing and freedom for herself and her daughter. This is a story of faith, warfare, and the undeniable power of the Holy Spirit.

Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and out of control? In a world filled with chaos, conflict, and constant demands, finding true peace can feel impossible. In this powerful sermon, Pastor Josh dives deep into the often-misunderstood fruit of the Spirit: peace. Drawing from powerful biblical stories and practical examples, we'll discover that peace isn't just the absence of conflict—it's a divine presence that can transform our lives and the world around us. Pastor Josh shares three incredible ways peace is produced through us and how this fruit is the secret ingredient that unlocks the power of self-control.

Join us for a hilarious and heartfelt conversation with Matt, a software engineer at Google, as he shares his journey from his early life to a brand new dad! Matt opens up about the joys of raising his eight-month-old daughter, Grace, and the bittersweet transition back to work. We dive into his unique career path at Google, his faith journey from a teenager seeking stability to finding a lifelong community at Vineyard, and how his college years with his wife, Emily, shaped everything. Plus, get the inside scoop on his transition from marching band to the worship team. This episode is packed with relatable stories about parenting, faith, and the wild ride of finding your calling—both at work and in life.