Episodes

  • TWL - Teach us to Pray - S7E1

    TWL - Teach us to Pray - S7E1
    Feb 19 2026
    Teach Me to Pray: A Journey Through Luke 11 In the latest episode of "Truth Worth Living," we embark on a transformative journey into the heart of prayer, guided by the profound lessons found in Luke 11. This series, titled "Teach Me to Pray," seeks to unravel the mysteries of prayer as demonstrated by Jesus himself. The Disciples' Request The series begins with a pivotal moment from Luke 11:1, where the disciples, having observed Jesus' powerful prayer life, approach him with a simple yet profound request: "Lord, teach us to pray." This request is a testament to the disciples' realization that prayer is not merely a ritual but a vital conduit to divine intimacy, wisdom, and transformation. The Power of Jesus’ Prayer Life The disciples noticed that Jesus' prayers were unlike any they had witnessed before. His prayers were effective, refreshing, and transformative. They realized that his extraordinary life was deeply rooted in his prayer life, which was characterized by: Intimacy with the Father Insight into God's will Wisdom for decision-making Spiritual transformation Access to divine power Personal peace and refreshment Unlike their own experiences, which were often "hit or miss," Jesus' prayers were consistently impactful. This observation led them to question their own approach to prayer. The Right and Wrong Ways to Pray Pastor Chris emphasizes a challenging yet crucial truth: there is a right way and a wrong way to pray. If you've ever felt frustrated or disappointed by unanswered prayers, it might be due to approaching prayer with unhealthy expectations or selfish ambitions. Jesus' teachings in Luke 11 reveal that not all prayers are created equal, and there is much to learn about praying effectively. Learning from the Master In response to the disciples' request, Jesus offers a succinct yet profound template for prayer, often known as "The Lord's Prayer," as recorded in Luke 11:2-4: Father, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come. Give us each day our daily bread. Forgive us our sins, for we also forgive everyone who sins against us. Lead us not into temptation. This prayer is not just a set of words but a framework for aligning our hearts with God's will, seeking his provision, and extending his grace to others. A Journey Through the Lord’s Prayer Throughout this series, we will delve deeper into the longer version of the Lord's Prayer found in Matthew 6:9-13, exploring its rich layers and discovering new insights into effective prayer. Each week, we will uncover the profound lessons embedded in this prayer and learn how to apply them to our own lives. Conclusion As we embark on this journey, let us embrace the possibility of transformation through prayer. By learning to pray as Jesus taught, we open ourselves to the divine possibilities of intimacy, wisdom, and peace. Join us next week as we continue to explore the depths of prayer and uncover the truths that make it "Truth Worth Living." May this series inspire and equip you to pray with purpose and passion, aligning your heart with the heart of God. God bless you and keep you, and may his face shine upon you, giving you peace.
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    7 mins
  • Simon Says Wk 6

    Simon Says Wk 6
    Feb 17 2026
    Simon Says Week 6: Becoming Like a Child Date: February 15, 2026 Key Passage: John 13 In this week's sermon, we delve into the profound and transformative message of becoming like a child to enter the kingdom of heaven. Pastor Chris takes us on a journey through various "unless" statements made by Jesus, highlighting the necessity of childlike faith and dependence on God. The Significance of Questions Life is filled with questions, both trivial and profound. Among the most significant is the question posed by the Philippian jailer: "What must I do to be saved?" This question, echoed throughout the sermon, points to the heart of Christian faith: belief in Jesus Christ as the pathway to salvation. Jesus' "Unless" Statements Pastor Chris explores several critical statements by Jesus that outline the conditions for entering God's kingdom: John 3:3: "Very truly, I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again." This emphasizes the necessity of spiritual rebirth, a transformation that only God can initiate. Matthew 5:20: "Unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven." This highlights the impossibility of achieving salvation through human effort alone, as true righteousness comes from God. Matthew 18:3: "Unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven." Here, Jesus calls for a childlike transformation, a personal decision to trust and depend on God. The Upper Room Lesson In John 13, Jesus provides a powerful object lesson during the Last Supper. As He washes the disciples' feet, He demonstrates humility and service, actions that symbolize the cleansing power of His impending sacrifice. Peter's initial resistance to Jesus washing his feet is met with another "unless" statement: "Unless I wash you, you have no part with me." This interaction underscores the necessity of allowing Jesus to cleanse us, representing the broader spiritual truth that we must allow God to do what we cannot do for ourselves. Embracing Childlike Faith The sermon concludes by urging believers to embrace a childlike posture towards God. This involves: Humility: Acknowledging our limitations and need for God's intervention. Trust: Placing unwavering faith in God's promises and His ability to save. Dependence: Recognizing that our salvation and spiritual growth are reliant on God's grace. Conclusion The call to become like a child is not merely about entering the kingdom of heaven but also about thriving within it. Believers are encouraged to remain dependent on God, continually seeking His guidance and provision. In closing, Pastor Chris invites those who have yet to place their faith in Jesus to do so with childlike trust, embracing the simplicity and profundity of the Gospel message: Jesus did for us what we cannot do for ourselves. For further reflection, consider reading John 13 and meditating on the humility and love demonstrated by Jesus. Let us strive to live with the childlike faith that opens the door to God's eternal kingdom.
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    42 mins
  • Simon Says wk5

    Simon Says wk5
    Feb 10 2026
    Simon Says: Be Secure in God's Grace On this Super Bowl Sunday, we delve into the fifth week of our series, "Simon Says," exploring the transformation of Simon, son of Jonah, into Peter, the rock. This journey highlights the grace of God in shaping Simon into a leader among Jesus' disciples. A critical moment in this transformation occurred on Mount Hermon when Simon declared Jesus as the Messiah, a revelation given by God, not discovered on his own. The Transfiguration: Mark 9:2-10 The focal Bible passage for this sermon is the transfiguration of Jesus, as recounted in Mark 9:2-10. Jesus takes Peter, James, and John up a high mountain where he is transfigured before them. His clothes become dazzling white, and he is joined by Elijah and Moses. Peter, overwhelmed and frightened, suggests building shelters for them, not fully understanding the divine encounter. Understanding Grace and Insecurity The sermon emphasizes that Simon Peter's journey to leadership was a gift of grace, not something earned by ambition or effort. This grace was evident in various aspects of his life, including his name change and leadership role among the disciples. However, Simon struggled to grasp this grace, often focusing on his failures and feeling the need to prove his worth. Simon's Background: As a hardworking fisherman, Simon was accustomed to earning his keep through sheer effort. This mindset made it difficult for him to accept that his standing with Jesus was a gift of grace. Insecurity at the Transfiguration: During the transfiguration, Peter's suggestion to build shelters was a reflection of his insecurity. He felt the need to justify his presence among Jesus, Moses, and Elijah, despite being chosen to witness this divine moment. Lessons from the Transfiguration Be Secure in God's Grace: The key takeaway from Simon's experience is the importance of resting in God's grace. We are encouraged to be secure in our relationship with God, knowing it is not earned by our deeds but given through faith. Stop Striving: God’s voice from the cloud, "This is my son, whom I love. Listen to him," serves as a reminder to cease striving and listen to Jesus. Our relationship with God flourishes not through our efforts but through understanding and accepting His love and grace. Be Present and Grateful: Simon's insecurity almost caused him to miss the glory of the transfiguration. We are encouraged to be present in sacred moments, appreciating the grace God extends to us without making it about our worthiness. Finding Rest in Jesus The sermon concludes with a call to find rest in Jesus, as he invites us in Matthew 11:28, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." This rest comes from being secure in the relationship with God, grounded in His love and grace. In summary, the journey of Simon Peter teaches us to embrace God's grace, be secure in our relationship with Him, and focus on listening to Jesus. By doing so, we can find peace and rest, knowing we are loved and cherished by our Heavenly Father.
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    39 mins
  • Simon Says wk4

    Simon Says wk4
    Feb 3 2026
    Simon Says: Week 4 Exploring Matthew 16 In this week's sermon, we delve into Matthew 16, focusing on a pivotal moment in the life of Simon Peter and his interaction with Jesus. This passage is set against the backdrop of Caesarea Philippi, a place known for its pagan worship and spiritual darkness, providing a striking contrast to the revelation of Jesus' true identity. Key Themes The Revelation of Jesus' Identity Jesus' Question: Jesus poses two critical questions to His disciples: "Who do people say the Son of Man is?" and "Who do you say I am?" These questions are foundational, prompting us to reflect on our understanding of Jesus. Peter’s Confession: Simon Peter declares, "You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God." This confession marks a significant step in Peter's journey from Simon to Peter, the rock upon which Jesus would build His church. The Importance of Divine Revelation Truth from God: The sermon emphasizes that truth about Jesus comes from divine revelation, not human intuition or ideas. This truth is graciously provided by God and requires us to align our beliefs and behaviors accordingly. The Church Built on the Rock Foundation of Faith: Jesus affirms Peter's confession as the rock upon which He will build His church. Unlike the shrines at Caesarea Philippi, built on a literal rock to honor dead gods, Jesus' church is built on the living truth of His identity. The Gates of Hades: Jesus promises that "the gates of Hades will not overcome it," signifying that His church will have dominion over death and darkness. The Path of the Cross Misunderstanding the Messiah: Despite Peter's confession, he misunderstands the nature of Jesus' mission, expecting a political revolution rather than a sacrificial path. Jesus corrects him, underscoring that His kingdom is established through sacrifice, not might. The Call to Sacrifice: Following Jesus means taking up our cross, denying ourselves, and embracing the full truth of God’s revelation, even when it challenges our personal convictions. Reflective Questions Who do you say Jesus is? This question is central to our faith journey and requires ongoing reflection and confession. Are you aligned with God’s truth? Consider whether your beliefs and actions reflect the divine revelation of Jesus as the Messiah. Conclusion This sermon challenges us to examine our understanding of Jesus and to align our lives with the truth revealed by God. As we confess Jesus as the Messiah, we are called to live out this truth, embracing the sacrificial path of discipleship. Let us hold firmly to the keys of the kingdom, sharing the message of hope and life in Jesus Christ. For further reflection, read Matthew 16 and consider how this passage speaks to your personal journey of faith.
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    35 mins
  • The Church As... Week 2

    The Church As... Week 2
    Jan 27 2026
    Church as the Body and Bride of Christ In Pastor JP's sermon, the focus was on understanding the church as the body and bride of Christ. This sermon, delivered at Skycrest Community Church, emphasized the significance of belonging and transformation within the church community. The Church as Christ's Bride One of the central themes was the imagery of the church as the bride of Christ. This metaphor is not merely poetic but deeply theological, representing a covenant relationship. Ephesians 5:24-27 was highlighted to illustrate how Christ's love for the church is sacrificial and purifying. The passage emphasizes that Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word. Ephesians 5:24-27: "Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit to their husbands in everything. Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, and to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless." This covenant language underscores the intentionality and purpose behind Christ’s sacrifice, portraying His love as proactive and transformative rather than reactive. Belonging and Becoming The sermon stressed that belonging to the church is just the beginning. In Christ, believers find a place of belonging, but this is merely the starting point of a transformative journey. Pastor JP explained that the church is not just a static entity but a living, breathing body of believers being prepared and transformed into the likeness of Christ. Romans 12:2: "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." This transformation is ongoing, involving sanctification and growth into a holy dwelling for God’s presence. The process of becoming more like Christ involves challenges and sacrifices, reflecting the deep, intentional love Christ has for His church. The Church as a Living Temple Pastor JP also explored the concept of the church as a living temple. This metaphor emphasizes the church's role as a dwelling place for God's presence, built on the foundation of Christ as the cornerstone. Ephesians 2:20-22: "Built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit." This passage highlights the dynamic nature of the church, where believers are the living stones being built into a spiritual house. The sermon encouraged believers to align with Christ, allowing God to shape and mold them into His image. A Call to Renewed Commitment The sermon concluded with a call for renewed commitment to Christ and His church. Believers were encouraged to realign their lives with Christ as the cornerstone and to engage actively with the church community. Pastor JP urged the congregation to resist isolation and consumerism, instead embracing their role as integral parts of the living church. In summary, the sermon was a powerful reminder of the depth of Christ’s love for His church and the transformative journey of becoming His radiant bride. It called for a renewed devotion to Christ and active participation in the life of the church, aligning with the vision of being a living temple for God's presence.
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    36 mins
  • Simon Says wk3

    Simon Says wk3
    Jan 20 2026
    Simon Says: Lessons from Peter's Faith Journey In the third installment of our series, Simon Says, we delve deeper into the life of Simon Peter, a disciple known for his bold yet flawed faith. This week's sermon focuses on the theme of maintaining focus on Jesus, even amidst life's storms. The Scene on the Sea of Galilee Our journey begins with Matthew 14:22-33, where Peter experiences both triumph and failure while walking on water. After Jesus feeds the 5,000, He sends the disciples ahead on a boat while He prays alone. As a storm brews, Jesus walks on water towards the struggling disciples. Mistaking Him for a ghost, they are terrified until Jesus reassures them. Peter, ever eager, asks Jesus to command him to walk on water too. With Jesus' invitation, Peter steps out of the boat, initially walking towards Jesus. However, the moment he shifts his focus from Jesus to the wind and waves, doubt creeps in, and he begins to sink. Jesus saves him, but not without pointing out his "little faith" and questioning his doubt. Insights into Faith Saving Faith vs. Living Faith The sermon distinguishes between two types of faith: Saving Faith: This is the initial trust in Jesus that justifies us and connects us with God. It is the root of our salvation, a gift of grace that requires nothing from us but belief in Jesus' sacrifice. Living Faith: Unlike saving faith, living faith requires action. It is the faith we live by, animating our lives and guiding us to walk by faith, not by sight. Living faith is about obedience, trust, and sacrifice, leading to our transformation and sanctification. Lessons from Peter's Experience Peter's water-walking adventure teaches us about the nuances of living faith. Despite his initial boldness, Peter's faith falters when he diverts his gaze from Jesus. This moment illustrates how living faith can ebb and flow, influenced by our focus and external distractions. Focus on Jesus: Peter's failure came when he focused on the waves instead of Jesus. This shift led to doubt and fear, which are antithetical to living faith. To maintain our living faith, we must keep our eyes on Jesus, especially when stepping out of our comfort zones. Common Pitfalls: The sermon identifies three reasons why Peter might have taken his eyes off Jesus: Self-reliance: Attempting to navigate the waves on his own strength. Overthinking: Second-guessing his decision to walk on water. Pride: Seeking approval from others instead of focusing on Jesus. Each of these pitfalls centers around a shift in focus from Jesus to self, leading to a weakened faith. Conclusion The story of Peter walking on water is a powerful reminder of the importance of living faith. We are called to step out in faith, but we must remain focused on Jesus to sustain that faith. As believers, we should examine our lives to ensure that our faith is active and alive, rooted in Jesus and bearing the fruit of transformation. In closing, the sermon invites us to reflect on our faith journey. Do we possess saving faith, trusting in Jesus for salvation? Are we walking by living faith, keeping our gaze fixed on Him despite life's challenges? As we ponder these questions, let us strive to keep our eyes on Jesus, ensuring that our faith remains vibrant and steadfast.
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    38 mins
  • Simon Says wk2

    Simon Says wk2
    Jan 13 2026
    Simon Says: Lessons from Simon Peter In this week's sermon, titled "Simon Says," we continued our exploration of the life and lessons of Simon Peter, the disciple who was both deeply flawed and profoundly faithful. This week, we focused on the event when Simon Peter walked on water, a story that offers profound insights into faith, courage, and obedience. The Story of Walking on Water The sermon draws from Matthew 14:22-33, where Jesus walks on water and invites Peter to join Him. This miraculous event occurs after a long day of ministry, where Jesus had just fed the 5,000. Seeking solitude and prayer, Jesus sends His disciples ahead across the Sea of Galilee. As a storm arises, Jesus walks on the water to meet them, prompting fear among the disciples. Simon Peter's Boldness Peter’s response to Jesus walking on the water is a pivotal moment. Unlike the other disciples, who were paralyzed by fear, Peter boldly asks Jesus to invite him onto the water. When Jesus says, "Come," Peter steps out of the boat and walks toward Him. This act of faith is a testament to Peter’s desire to follow Jesus, even into the unknown. Lessons on Faith and Fear Pastor Chris emphasized that Peter’s initial success in walking on water was due to his faith and focus on Jesus. However, when Peter notices the wind and waves, fear overtakes him, and he begins to sink. This illustrates a powerful lesson: faith requires focus on Jesus, not on the surrounding storms. Fear distorts perspective: Fear can choke out faith, making us lose sight of Jesus' power and presence. Obedience may lead to storms: The disciples were in the storm because they obeyed Jesus, reminding us that obedience does not always lead to smooth sailing. God’s presence in the storm: Jesus comes to the disciples in their time of need, showing that God may not calm every storm but will always calm His children with His presence. Practical Applications Pray Bold Prayers Following Peter’s example, believers are encouraged to pray big, bold prayers. Like Peter, we should ask for opportunities to join God in His work. This involves stepping out in faith when God calls, trusting that He will provide the strength and means to accomplish His purposes. Get Out of the Boat The "boat" symbolizes safety and comfort. Peter’s willingness to leave the boat represents a call to leave our comfort zones to experience the fullness of life with God. It’s a reminder that true faith sometimes requires taking risks and stepping into the unknown. Overcoming Fear By focusing on Jesus and His call, believers can overcome fear. The sermon highlights that fear often prevents us from experiencing the adventure of faith. Yet, when we trust in Jesus and step out in faith, we can experience His power and presence in profound ways. Conclusion The message concludes with a challenge to live out our faith boldly, praying for God’s guidance and stepping out in obedience when He calls. For those who do not yet follow Jesus, the invitation is open to trust in Him, who left His heavenly comfort to walk on water and ultimately to the cross for our salvation. Let us be inspired by Peter’s example to live courageously, trusting in the One who is always with us, even in the storm.
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    46 mins
  • Simon Says Wk1

    Simon Says Wk1
    Jan 6 2026
    Simon Says: Lessons from Simon Peter As we step into the New Year, we embark on an exciting journey through a new sermon series titled Simon Says, focusing on the life and lessons of Simon Peter, one of Jesus’ most prominent disciples. This series explores how Simon Peter’s experiences and responses can guide us toward spiritual transformation. Introduction to Simon Peter Simon Peter, a fisherman by trade, was introduced to Jesus by his brother Andrew. This pivotal moment is captured in John 1:40–42, where Andrew, convinced that Jesus is the Messiah, brings Simon to Him. Jesus immediately sees Simon’s potential and declares that he will be called Peter, meaning “rock,” pointing to a future transformation. The Call to Obedience One of the key themes in Simon Peter’s life is obedience. In Luke 5:1–11, we witness a miraculous event that underscores the importance of obeying Jesus, even when it feels inconvenient or illogical. After a fruitless night of fishing, Simon follows Jesus’ instruction to cast the nets again. The result is an overwhelming catch. This act of obedience, despite doubt, leads to a deeper revelation of Jesus’ authority and becomes a defining moment in Simon’s life. Lessons in Obedience Obey in the Little Things Simon’s willingness to let Jesus use his boat, though inconvenient, set the stage for a greater miracle. Small acts of obedience often open the door to significant spiritual growth. Obey When It Doesn’t Make Sense Simon’s decision to fish again, despite his professional experience telling him otherwise, highlights the need to trust Jesus even when His instructions defy logic. Obedience, even when mixed with uncertainty, can lead to clearer vision and deeper faith. Spiritual Transformation The result of Simon’s obedience was not just a miraculous catch of fish, but a shift in how he understood Jesus and himself. He moves from calling Jesus “Master” to recognizing Him as “Lord,” signaling a deeper awareness of Jesus’ true identity and authority. Application for Today Embrace Obedience Whether the task is small and inconvenient or large and challenging, obedience matters. Consistent obedience aligns us with God’s purpose. Seek Transformation Like Simon, our journey with Jesus is ongoing. It begins with relationship, grows through obedience, and leads to a life shaped by God’s calling. Conclusion The story of Simon Peter reminds us that transformation is a process that requires active participation through obedience. As we walk through this series, let us remain open to the lessons from Simon Peter’s life and apply them personally. Whether you are new to faith or have followed Jesus for years, every step of obedience moves you closer to the life God intends for you. If you are interested in beginning or deepening your relationship with Jesus, consider joining our upcoming baptism service or participating in our Bible reading plan for the year. Let’s commit to a year of growth and transformation, inspired by the life of Simon Peter.
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    45 mins