PODCAST · religion
Wray Church of the Nazarene
by Wray Church of the Nazarene
Catch our weekly sermons and messages at Wray Church of the Nazarene! Thank you for listening!
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153
The Throne
What if true greatness isn't about climbing higher, but about lowering yourself in love? Jesus turned the world's definition of success completely upside down. The question isn't whether you matter - you absolutely do. The question is: who sits on the throne of your heart? Ready to discover what real freedom looks like?For sermon notes, recap, and devotionals, click here: https://sermons.wraynaz.comFor all our links, click here: https://linktr.ee/wraynaz
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152
Encountering Jesus
You can change habits without changing your heart. You can improve routines without healing your soul. Real transformation doesn't start with self-improvement - it begins with encountering the risen Jesus. If God can raise Jesus from the dead, what dead areas of your life could He resurrect? The empty tomb isn't just history - it's your hope for change today.For sermon notes, recap, and devotionals, click here: https://sermons.wraynaz.comFor all our links, click here: https://linktr.ee/wraynaz
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151
Easter: It's Bigger Than You Think!
What if Jesus has been walking with you all along, but you just haven't recognized Him yet? The disciples on the road to Emmaus thought they were alone in their confusion and disappointment, but Jesus was right there beside them the whole time. Instead of asking where is God, maybe we should be asking where might Jesus already be present in our ordinary moments that we're missing? Your next encounter with the divine might happen over dinner tonight.
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150
The Way of the Cross
Palm Sunday reveals a profound tension between the Jesus we want and the Jesus we need. The crowds expected a political king who would overthrow Rome and solve their problems, but Jesus came as a humble servant riding a donkey toward the cross. While they wanted earthly power and immediate solutions, Jesus offered something far greater - salvation through sacrifice. Today we often make the same mistake, wanting a Jesus who fits our agenda rather than surrendering to the Jesus revealed in Scripture. The same crowd that shouted Hosanna later cried Crucify Him because Jesus didn't meet their expectations. True freedom comes not from a problem-solving Jesus, but from the humble, serving, sacrificial King who gave His life for our salvation.For sermon notes, recap, and devotionals, click here: https://sermons.wraynaz.comFor all our links, click here: https://linktr.ee/wraynaz
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149
The Way of Endurance
Following Jesus isn't always easy or inspiring. Sometimes faith feels heavy, prayers seem unanswered, and obedience costs us something real. True endurance in faith means continuing when you don't feel it, staying faithful when no one notices, and showing up when it would be easier not to. Many believers feel exhausted because they're carrying burdens they were never meant to bear - guilt, wrong expectations, and draining habits. The key to endurance isn't willpower but focus, fixing our eyes on Jesus rather than our problems or circumstances. Jesus modeled perfect endurance, finishing what He came to do despite rejection and suffering, and He didn't quit on us. When we feel weakest, God meets us with strength, sustaining us through each moment and giving us just the next step we need.For sermon notes, recap, and devotionals, click here: https://sermons.wraynaz.comFor all our links, click here: https://linktr.ee/wraynaz
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148
The Way of Mercy
The parable of the Good Samaritan challenges our understanding of who deserves our mercy and compassion. When a religious expert asks Jesus who qualifies as his neighbor, Jesus responds with a story about a wounded traveler ignored by religious leaders but helped by an unlikely Samaritan. This story reveals that mercy often interrupts our plans and calls us to help those we might naturally overlook. Before we can truly show mercy to others, we must first understand the mercy we've received from Christ, who rescued us when we were spiritually wounded and helpless. When we grasp the depth of God's mercy toward us, showing compassion to others becomes a natural response rather than a burden.For sermon notes, recap, and devotionals, click here: https://sermons.wraynaz.comFor all our links, click here: https://linktr.ee/wraynaz
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147
The Way of Trust
Trust forms the foundation of our relationship with Jesus, yet it often feels risky because it requires stepping into uncertainty. When we worry, we reveal where trust is missing in our lives. Jesus addresses our anxieties in Matthew 6:25-34, reminding us not to worry because our Heavenly Father cares for us even more than He cares for the birds and flowers. Worry accomplishes nothing except stealing our peace, while trust brings freedom. The solution is found in seeking God's kingdom first, allowing Him to reorder our priorities and trusting that His plans won't harm us.For sermon notes, recap, and devotionals, click here: https://sermons.wraynaz.comFor all our links, click here: https://linktr.ee/wraynaz
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146
The Way of Surrender
God has crafted a unique purpose for each person's life, established before birth. Through faith in Christ and spiritual growth, we can discover and fulfill this divine calling. True greatness in God's kingdom is measured through service rather than worldly achievements. By identifying our spiritual gifts, seeking wisdom through prayer, and following the Spirit's leading, we can overcome obstacles like inadequacy and fear to live out our purpose. God empowers those He calls, providing everything needed to fulfill His plan.For sermon notes, recap, and devotionals, click here: https://sermons.wraynaz.comFor all our links, click here: https://linktr.ee/wraynaz
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145
The Way of Humility
Biblical humility isn't thinking less of yourself—it's thinking of yourself less. What if the very thing protecting you from the world is actually blocking your transformation? When our hearts are full of pride and ego, there's no room for grace to reshape us. Discover how humility actually frees you to love like Jesus did.For sermon notes, recap, and devotionals, click here: https://sermons.wraynaz.comFor all our links, click here: https://linktr.ee/wraynaz
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144
Follow Me
True discipleship involves moving beyond mere association with Jesus to genuine apprenticeship. We are constantly being shaped by something—whether culture, fear, comfort, or Christ himself. Formation differs from information; it's the slow, intentional shaping of our inner life and outer habits to increasingly reflect Jesus's character. When Jesus called his first disciples, they immediately left their nets and followed him, demonstrating that following Christ requires letting go of what anchors us to our old way of life.Formation happens through proximity to Jesus over time, cooperating with the Holy Spirit's transforming work through daily Scripture reading, examining what we're gripping onto, and rearranging small habits around Christ.For sermon notes, recap, and devotionals, click here: https://sermons.wraynaz.comFor all our links, click here: https://linktr.ee/wraynaz
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143
Love Lived As Evidence
Ever wonder if your faith is actually real? Jesus gives us a surprising answer that has nothing to do with how much you pray or read your Bible. The evidence of genuine faith isn't what you might expect - it's Christ-shaped love flowing through your ordinary moments. What does love look like when Jesus is doing it through you instead of you trying to do it for Him?For sermon notes, recap, and devotionals, click here: https://sermons.wraynaz.comFor all our links, click here: https://linktr.ee/wraynaz
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142
Love That Remains
What if loving others isn't about trying harder, but about abiding deeper? Jesus calls us to love as He has loved us - not as another assignment, but as the natural fruit of staying connected to His love. Are you loving from obligation or from overflow?For sermon notes, recap, and devotionals, click here: https://sermons.wraynaz.comFor all our links, click here: https://linktr.ee/wraynaz
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141
Remain In My Love
Are you living FROM God's love or trying to live FOR it? There's a life-changing difference. Jesus doesn't say 'obey me and I'll love you' - He says 'I love you, now remain in that love.' What would change in your life if you truly believed His love isn't based on your performance?For sermon notes, recap, and devotionals, click here: https://sermons.wraynaz.comFor all our links, click here: https://linktr.ee/wraynaz
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140
Pruned For Life
What if the difficult things in your life aren't punishment but proof that God is paying attention? When God prunes us, He's not cutting randomly - He's carefully removing what's crowding out our spiritual growth. The same hands that prune you are the ones that hold you through the process. Are you ready to trust the Gardener?For sermon notes, recap, and devotionals, click here: https://sermons.wraynaz.comFor all our links, click here: https://linktr.ee/wraynaz
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139
The Life That Flows
What if spiritual growth isn't about trying harder, but staying connected? Jesus said apart from me you can do nothing - not as condemnation, but as compassion. We were designed for connection, not performance. Are you chasing spiritual fruit or cultivating the relationship that naturally produces it?For sermon notes, recap, and devotionals, click here: https://sermons.wraynaz.comFor all our links, click here: https://linktr.ee/wraynaz
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138
Abide - Don’t Strive
As we enter a new year filled with pressure to do more and be better, Jesus offers something different than a list of demands. In John 15, he invites his disciples to remain in him like branches connected to a vine. This agricultural imagery emphasizes patience and organic growth over industrial efficiency and forced results. Instead of striving and performing, Jesus calls us to active dependence and staying close to him. When we feel spiritually exhausted or dry, these are warning lights inviting us back to the source rather than reasons for shame. True spiritual fruitfulness comes not from forcing outcomes but from maintaining our connection to Christ through all seasons of life.For sermon notes, recap, and devotionals, click here: https://sermons.wraynaz.comFor all our links, click here: https://linktr.ee/wraynaz
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137
Gratitude Changes It All
Gratitude isn't just a feeling—it's worship in motion that leads you straight back to Jesus! Like the healed leper who returned to thank Him, gratitude transforms our hearts and brings us into God's presence. Where is gratitude leading you today?For sermon notes, recap, and devotionals, click here: https://sermons.wraynaz.comFor all our links, click here: https://linktr.ee/wraynaz
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136
The Mind of Christ
The world says think for yourself, but Paul says think like Christ. Are you being led by human wisdom or the Spirit of God? Discover what it really means to have the mind of Christ and why some truths can only be understood through divine revelation. The difference will transform how you see everything.For sermon notes, recap, and devotionals, click here: https://sermons.wraynaz.comFor all our links, click here: https://linktr.ee/wraynaz
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135
Strength in Weakness
What if your greatest weakness could become your most powerful testimony? God has a habit of choosing the unlikely, the ordinary, and the broken to accomplish extraordinary things. The cross proves that divine strength is perfectly displayed through human weakness. Are you trying to impress others with your abilities, or are you allowing God to shine through your weakness?For sermon notes, recap, and devotionals, click here: https://sermons.wraynaz.comFor all our links, click here: https://linktr.ee/wraynaz
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134
The Problem of Division
What unites us? Jesus. What divides us? Everything else. In a world that pressures us to choose sides, how can the church maintain unity without compromising truth? The answer might surprise you - it's not about agreeing on everything, but about fixing our eyes on the same Savior.For sermon notes, recap, and devotionals, click here: https://sermons.wraynaz.comFor all our links, click here: https://linktr.ee/wraynaz
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133
Called To Be Different
The church of Jesus Christ is called not to mirror culture or withdraw from it, but to engage it with the heart and mind of Christ — embodying truth, grace, and love in a world desperate for meaning and reconciliation.We begin a new series through Paul's first letter to the Corinthian church that focuses on what the church should look like and how it should engage in a culture that is very different from how Christ calls us to live.In week 1, we discover that for us to begin we need to understand our our identity in Christ that calls us to be different in the culture we are surrounded by.For sermon notes, recap, and devotionals, click here: https://sermons.wraynaz.comFor all our links, click here: https://linktr.ee/wraynaz
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132
Faith Over Fear - Lucas Barnts
Thank you Lucas for sharing this week!Jesus knew His followers would face adversity for the next 2,000 years, so He provided three practical responses that remain relevant today. First, don't panic - choose faith over fear, remembering that the world is powerless against the spiritual realm. Second, trust God to provide what you need, viewing persecution as an opportunity to share the gospel and relying on spiritual weapons rather than physical ones. Third, stand firm by enduring for the gospel's sake, keeping your eyes on the spiritual finish line of the Great Commission rather than being derailed by temporary circumstances. When we follow these principles, we can navigate any adversity without allowing fear to drive our decisions.For sermon notes, recap, and devotionals, click here: https://sermons.wraynaz.comFor all our links, click here: https://linktr.ee/wraynaz
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131
Compelled To Go
Jesus' Great Commission in Matthew 28:16-20 reminds us that we share the gospel with His authority, not our own. Our mission isn't to make converts but disciples—people who follow Jesus in every aspect of life. This requires long-term investment and patience, unlike our culture's preference for quick results. The command to 'go' creates urgency for today, not someday. Most importantly, Jesus promises His constant presence as we fulfill this mission, even when we experience doubt or fear. This transforms evangelism from an intimidating task to a privilege we undertake with the King of Kings.For sermon notes, recap, and devotionals, click here: https://sermons.wraynaz.comFor all our links, click here: https://linktr.ee/wraynaz
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130
Everyday Mission
Mission isn't reserved for special occasions but is woven into our everyday lives. Based on Colossians 4:2-6, living on mission begins with purposeful prayer that transforms our hearts to see others as Jesus does. It continues with living wisely among non-believers, where our conduct matches our message, and speaking graciously in a way that gives life and points to Jesus. We don't need special gifts to live on mission - just faithfulness in ordinary moments. By viewing daily "interruptions" as divine appointments, we can share hope with a hurting world through our everyday interactions.For sermon notes, recap, and devotionals, click here: https://sermons.wraynaz.comFor all our links, click here: https://linktr.ee/wraynaz
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129
Building Bridges
In a world marked by division and violence, Jesus offers us a powerful model for breaking barriers and building bridges. Through His encounter with the Samaritan woman at the well, we see how Jesus intentionally crossed racial, gender, religious, and social boundaries to reach someone with truth and compassion. Rather than retreating to comfortable spaces or engaging in debates, Jesus approached others with genuine care, listened before speaking, and offered living water that satisfies our deepest spiritual thirsts. Following His example means identifying barriers in our own relationships, taking intentional steps to cross them with love, and sharing our personal testimony of what Jesus has done in our lives.For sermon notes, recap, and devotionals, click here: https://sermons.wraynaz.comFor all our links, click here: https://linktr.ee/wraynaz
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128
God's Heart For The One
God's heart for the lost is beautifully illustrated in Jesus' parable of the shepherd who leaves 99 sheep to find just one that wandered away. This reveals how every single person matters deeply to God, regardless of their past or present circumstances. While we often create bubbles and keep uncomfortable people at a distance, Jesus modeled a different approach—actively seeking out those who were hurting and lost. The shepherd's persistent search, joyful rescue, and celebratory return home mirror God's relentless pursuit of each soul. We're called to identify our 'one'—a specific person God has placed in our life—and intentionally pray for and reach out to them with the same love and persistence that God has shown us.For sermon notes, recap, and devotionals, click here: https://sermons.wraynaz.comFor all our links, click here: https://linktr.ee/wraynaz
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127
Love That Compels
This message kicks off a new series focused on a simple yet powerful idea: evangelism isn't about grand gestures or scary street-corner preaching, but about focusing on one person God has placed in our lives. It all begins not with guilt or obligation, but with the transforming love of Christ that compels us from within. Drawing from 2 Corinthians 5, we're reminded that because Jesus rescued us, we have a natural desire to share that same hope with others. We are all called to be ambassadors of reconciliation, seeing people not through worldly eyes but through the lens of Jesus' love. The challenge for us is to identify one friend, neighbor, or family member, and commit to praying for them, loving them, and looking for opportunities to share the life-changing story of Jesus.For sermon notes, recap, and devotionals, click here: https://sermons.wraynaz.comFor all our links, click here: https://linktr.ee/wraynaz
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126
Real Love Overcomes
In a world that operates on 'an eye for an eye,' Romans 12:16-21 challenges us to break the cycle of evil by responding with good instead of retaliation. When wronged, our natural instinct is to hit back, but this only escalates conflict rather than resolving it. Living honorably means acting with integrity even toward those who hurt us, pursuing peace whenever possible, and showing radical kindness to enemies. By refusing to mirror the evil we face and instead responding with goodness, we follow Jesus's example and demonstrate God's way to the world. This approach isn't weakness but requires the deepest strength—strength that comes from Christ living in us.For sermon notes, recap, and devotionals, click here: https://sermons.wraynaz.comFor all our links, click here: https://linktr.ee/wraynaz
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125
Real Love Under Pressure
When life's pressures reveal what's truly in our hearts, Romans 12 guides us toward a transformative response. Rather than reacting with bitterness or revenge when persecuted, we're called to bless those who hurt us—actively praying for their good. Paul challenges us to practice deep empathy by rejoicing with those celebrating and mourning with those grieving. Living in harmony requires cultivating attitudes of unity, humility, and teachability. This gospel-centered love isn't just theoretical—Jesus modeled it perfectly, even from the cross. As we face life's pressures, we have the opportunity to demonstrate this supernatural love in our everyday interactions.For sermon notes, recap, and devotionals, click here: https://sermons.wraynaz.comFor all our links, click here: https://linktr.ee/wraynaz
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124
Open Hands, Open Hearts
In Romans 12:13, Paul calls believers to share with those in need and practice hospitality as expressions of sincere love. These aren't optional extras but foundational aspects of Christian living that challenge our culture of independence and privacy. True sharing involves empathetic connection, not just material giving. Hospitality means actively pursuing opportunities to welcome others, not waiting for perfect circumstances. God's will for our lives always involves loving and serving others in practical ways, following Jesus' ultimate example of generosity at the cross. By opening our hands and hearts, we create space for others to experience Christ's love through us.For sermon notes, recap, and devotionals, click here: https://sermons.wraynaz.comFor all our links, click here: https://linktr.ee/wraynaz
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123
Anchored & Alive
Romans 12:12 offers a powerful blueprint for navigating life's pressures: 'Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.' True Christian joy comes from anchoring our hope in God's unchanging promises rather than temporary circumstances. Patience means enduring hardship with trust in God's timing, recognizing that He often does His deepest work in our waiting. Prayer should be our first response, not our last resort, keeping us connected to God even when answers aren't immediate. These three elements form a beautiful rhythm that sustains spiritual resilience through every season of life.For sermon notes, recap, and devotionals, click here: https://sermons.wraynaz.comFor all our links, click here: https://linktr.ee/wraynaz
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122
A Real Passionate Pursuit
Romans 12:11 provides a blueprint for vibrant Christian living, urging believers to maintain spiritual zeal and fervor while serving the Lord. Spiritual slothfulness manifests as delayed obedience and hesitation in following God's prompting. True zeal is action-oriented, focused on God's priorities, and reflects the Father's heart within us. To cultivate spiritual fervor, believers must create space for reflection, immerse themselves in Scripture, set spiritual goals, disciple intentionally, and serve purposefully. This passionate approach to faith keeps our spiritual temperature high and our mission clear.For sermon notes, recap, and devotionals, click here: https://sermons.wraynaz.comFor all our links, click here: https://linktr.ee/wraynaz
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121
Philadelphia
Brotherly love, or 'Philadelphia' in Greek, represents the deep familial bond that should characterize Christian relationships. This love goes beyond politeness to become loyal, sacrificial, and deeply committed. When we practice brotherly love, we stop keeping score, assume the best about others, and commit for the long haul. Romans 12:10 also challenges believers to 'outdo one another in showing honor' - recognizing others' worth regardless of their status. This relational approach to faith transforms our communities as we move from seeing others as acquaintances to treating them as beloved family members.For sermon notes, recap, and devotionals, click here: https://sermons.wraynaz.comFor all our links, click here: https://linktr.ee/wraynaz
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120
Love That's Real
Genuine Christianity is marked by sincere love that goes beyond surface-level interactions. Based on Romans 12:9, authentic faith requires love without hypocrisy, actively opposing evil, and clinging tightly to what is good. This transformative love isn't just a feeling but compels action, reflecting Jesus' example of unconditional compassion. When we've been changed by God's grace, we naturally respond with genuine love toward others, even when it's uncomfortable or inconvenient.For sermon notes, recap, and devotionals, click here: https://sermons.wraynaz.comFor all our links, click here: https://linktr.ee/wraynaz
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119
Ignited For A Purpose
Why did Jesus say having the Holy Spirit would be BETTER than His physical presence? Discover the four-fold role of the Spirit as your Advocate, Counselor, Helper, and Intercessor. The same power that transformed ordinary people at Pentecost is available to you today! Are you trying to navigate life's challenges alone when divine guidance dwells within you?Sermon notes and devotionals are available here: https://sermons.wraynaz.com
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118
Special Guest: Pastor Scott Caranza - "Clean"
Are you walking in dirty clothes when fine linen awaits you? The blood of Jesus cleanses our spiritual hearing, strengthens our hands for God's work, and enables us to walk in high places with Him. What area of your life needs His cleansing power today?
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117
Mission To Vision
Are you living with purpose or just going through the motions? There's a crucial difference between understanding your mission and catching God's vision for your life. When we lack vision, we experience effort without outcome and risk burnout. What if God has a vision for you beyond anything you can imagine? Discover how to move from the fringes to the center of your faith journey.
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116
A Glorious Future - A Glorious Present
What if the resurrection of Jesus isn't just about your future, but completely transforms how you live today? Discover how Easter's reality gives you victory over your greatest fears, purpose in your daily work, and a citizenship that changes everything. Are you living like someone who believes death has lost its sting?
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115
Changed At The Well
The encounter between Jesus and the Samaritan woman at the well demonstrates how God breaks social barriers to reach individuals. Through a simple request for water, Jesus initiated a transformative conversation that revealed his divine nature and the woman's deepest needs. Despite knowing her complicated past, Jesus offered grace and living water that would forever satisfy her spiritual thirst. This encounter transformed the woman from a social outcast into a powerful witness, leading her entire community to Christ through her simple yet effective testimony.
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114
The Peace Of Christ
Jesus's entry into Jerusalem during Passover was filled with powerful symbolism and misunderstood expectations. While the crowds welcomed him with palm branches and shouts of Hosanna, hoping for political liberation, Jesus came with a different purpose. He rode a donkey symbolizing peace, wept over Jerusalem's misunderstanding, and positioned himself as the ultimate Passover lamb. His mission wasn't about political freedom but about bringing true shalom - God's perfect peace that brings wholeness to all relationships and aspects of life.
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113
The Distant vs. The Personal Jesus
Feeling distant from God? Here's the truth: He never moved - we did. Discover how to experience the intimate, personal relationship Jesus desires to have with you. This week, Pastor Curt shows us the Jesus who is close to us and wants us to be close to Him. Beyond religion, beyond routine - this is about real connection with the One who knows you by name.
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112
Being Salt & Light
Living boldly as a Christian means moving beyond a private, hidden faith to one that actively engages with the world. Many believers hide their faith due to fear, comfort-seeking, or avoiding conflict. However, Jesus calls His followers to be both salt and light in the world - preserving goodness and illuminating darkness. Through intentional actions, speaking about faith when opportunities arise, and living in a way that reflects Christ, believers can overcome their fears and fulfill their calling to make Christ known.
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111
From Stones To Grace
Are you quick to judge others while overlooking your own faults? 🤔 Discover how Jesus masterfully balanced truth and grace when faced with an impossible situation. A powerful message about transformation through grace rather than condemnation.
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110
The Cross Before The Crown
What's the real cost of following Jesus? It's more than Sunday attendance - it's about complete transformation. Are you ready to move beyond comfortable Christianity? Discover what authentic faith looks like in a self-focused world.
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109
Which Jesus? - The Convenient Jesus or the Costly Jesus?
What if the comfortable Christianity you're living isn't what Jesus actually called you to? Discover the challenging but life-changing difference between settling for comfort and embracing true discipleship. Are you ready to let go of what's holding you back?
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108
New You: Rekindled
Feeling spiritually dry? You're not alone. Discover how to find God when He feels distant and your faith feels dim. What if your spiritual drought could become the catalyst for deeper faith?
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107
New You: Be Strengthened, PT. 2
Want to move beyond surface-level faith? Spiritual disciplines aren't about religious duty - they're your pathway to genuine transformation. Discover how small, consistent steps can lead to profound spiritual growth. Ready to take your first step?
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106
New You: Be Strengthened
Could your current challenges be opportunities for growth? Discover how God's discipline isn't punishment, but a powerful expression of His love that transforms our lives. Ready to see your spiritual challenges in a new light?Connect with us!https://linktr.ee/wraynaz
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105
New You: "Abiding Joy"
Happiness is based on circumstances—it comes and goes. Joy, on the other hand, is not dependent on what’s happening around us. It is rooted in God’s presence and promises. We must decide: will we allow circumstances to dictate our emotions, or will we choose the joy of the Lord?
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104
New You: Freedom From the Past
Are past hurts and regrets still controlling your present? Discover how to break free from the chains of your past and step into the freedom God has for you. Your story isn't over - it's just beginning.
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Catch our weekly sermons and messages at Wray Church of the Nazarene! Thank you for listening!
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Wray Church of the Nazarene
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