This powerful message challenges us to examine whether we are merely fans of Jesus or true followers committed to His mission. Drawing from Mark 1:14-20, we witness Jesus calling His first disciples who immediately left their nets and livelihoods to follow Him. These weren't casual admirers but committed laborers who understood that following Christ meant complete surrender. The distinction is stark: fans admire Jesus and seek His blessings when convenient, but followers surrender their will, embrace transformation, and remain faithful even when costly. We're reminded that two-thirds of Americans claim Christianity, yet our society hardly reflects Christ's character. The call to discipleship isn't about attending church on holidays or wearing Christianity like an accessory. It's about denying ourselves daily, taking up our cross, and allowing God to transform our thinking, desires, and character. Every biblical figure God called received an assignment—Noah built the ark, Moses led the exodus, David became king, Nehemiah rebuilt walls. God isn't recruiting pew warmers; He's raising up laborers with kingdom assignments. The question confronting us is profound: Are we seeking what Jesus can do for us, or are we seeking Jesus Himself, even through trials? True followers understand that eternity makes our earthly struggles smaller and our heavenly assignment greater than any temporary comfort or success this world offers.

In this powerful message, we're reminded of the importance of perseverance in our faith journey. The story of Abraham's willingness to sacrifice Isaac serves as a profound example of unwavering trust in God. This biblical account challenges us to examine our own faith and obedience. Are we willing to press on, even when God's instructions seem difficult or don't make sense? The speaker emphasizes that our breakthroughs often come just when we're tempted to give up. We're encouraged to let our 'spirit man' rise up and respond as the Lord would, rather than giving in to our flesh. This message invites us to consider: How often do we miss divine appointments because we're stuck in our comfort zones? It's a call to action - to be so busy doing God's will that He has to call our name twice to get us to stop.

In this powerful message, we're reminded that God is not just a provider of comfort, but the very embodiment of comfort itself. Drawing from 2 Corinthians 1:3-11, we explore how the Lord stands with us in our darkest moments, offering strength and hope. The Greek word 'parakaleo' is unpacked, revealing God as our ultimate helper who walks beside us through life's storms. This teaching challenges us to shift our perspective on trials, seeing them not just as obstacles, but as opportunities for growth and ministry. As we receive God's comfort, we're called to become 'copycats' of His love, extending that same comfort to a hurting world around us. This message invites us to embrace our role as conduits of divine comfort, transforming our pain into a platform for reaching others with Christ's love.

In this powerful message, we're reminded of the profound truth that what seems insignificant to the world can be incredibly significant to God. The story of Epaphroditus in Philippians 2 serves as a beautiful illustration of this principle. Though barely mentioned in Scripture, Epaphroditus' faithful service and willingness to risk his life for the gospel earned him high praise from Paul. This teaches us that our seemingly small acts of obedience and service matter greatly in God's eyes. The message challenges us to reconsider our definition of significance, urging us to align our perspective with God's. It's a call to embrace the 'small things' in our lives – acts of kindness, consistency in our faith, and quiet perseverance – recognizing that these are often the 'big things' in God's kingdom. As we reflect on this, we're encouraged to stay focused on what God has called us to do, trusting that He sees and values our faithfulness, even when the world doesn't.

Pastor Alex Willis from House on the Rock Church, shares how God transformed his life of brokenness into a life of victory.

Pastor Paul Burke preaches out of the Book Matthew Chapter 14.

Pastor Charles Simpson shares a message about what happens when we allow Him to be our Shepherd.

Pastor Paul Burke

May 30, 2025

Pastor Paul Burke, preached at Brooklyn Adult & Teen Challenge 2024 Summer Graduation.

"Hand Crafted Miracle" - Rev Paul Burke

Preached at Calvary Assembly of God, Staten Island, NY