Chris Teien | Well Faith Sermons

Can you become useful again after letting people down? John Mark left Paul’s first missionary journey, and Paul later refused to take him along again. Drawing from Acts 13:13, Acts 15:36–41, and 2 Timothy 4:11, Pastor Chris Teien follows his comeback to show how grace, encouragement, and renewed faithfulness can help us move forward after failure.

John Mark’s story includes consequences, disagreement, and relationships that needed time to heal. Discover how Barnabas gave him another opportunity and why Paul eventually described him as helpful to his ministry. Your failure does not have to be the final chapter of your service to Christ.

IN THIS MESSAGE

1. GOD’S GRACE SEES POTENTIAL BEYOND YOUR FAILURE

John Mark’s departure from the missionary journey raised serious concerns about his reliability. Yet his later service shows that this setback did not define the rest of his life. Acknowledge your failures honestly while remaining open to the growth and opportunities God’s grace makes possible. (Acts 13:13; Proverbs 24:16)

2. GOD’S GRACE RESTORES WHAT HAS BEEN BROKEN

When Paul would not take John Mark on another journey, Barnabas chose to take him to Cyprus. His willingness to give Mark another opportunity illustrates the importance of coming alongside someone after a setback. God can use patient encouragement and discipleship to help people return to faithful service. (Acts 15:36–41; Galatians 6:1)

3. GOD’S GRACE REBUILDS TRUST OVER TIME

Later letters identify Mark as a fellow worker, and Paul eventually asks for him because he is helpful in ministry. These references reveal a changed relationship and renewed confidence in his contribution. Forgiveness does not instantly restore trust, but consistent faithfulness can demonstrate growth and help repair a damaged reputation. (Colossians 4:10; Philemon 24; 2 Timothy 4:11)

4. GOD’S GRACE GIVES YOU A STORY WORTH SHARING

John Mark’s legacy includes the Gospel of Mark and its proclamation of the good news of Jesus. His story directs our attention beyond human failure to the Savior who loves and redeems sinners. Share what Christ has done in your life with humility, giving Him the credit for the grace you have received. (Mark 1:1; Romans 8:1; Romans 5:8)

BE ENCOURAGED

A past failure does not have to end your usefulness to Christ. Acknowledge a wrong, seek wise support, or renew your commitment to a responsibility you have neglected. If someone else is rebuilding after a setback, offer patient encouragement while allowing trust to develop over time. God’s grace gives you reason to keep growing and serving.

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Helping you understand and apply God’s Word. Find sermon transcripts and more Bible teaching at Well.faith. Learn more at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.church. Questions or feedback? Email [email protected]

What can bring us out of spiritual darkness and make us right with God? Teaching from Colossians 1:11–23, Pastor Chris Teien explains how Jesus rescues sinners, provides forgiveness, and brings those who trust Him into His kingdom.

Our hope rests in who Jesus is and what He accomplished through the cross. Discover why the One who created and sustains all things is sufficient to save, how His sacrifice restores our relationship with God, and why that hope is worth sharing.

IN THIS MESSAGE

1. JESUS RESCUES US FROM DARKNESS INTO HIS KINGDOM

God delivers believers from the dominion of darkness and brings them into the kingdom of His beloved Son. In Christ, we receive redemption and forgiveness rather than remaining under sin’s rule. His rescue gives us a new belonging and calls us to walk in His light. (Colossians 1:11–14; Acts 26:17–18; 1 John 1:5–7)

2. JESUS IS SUPREME OVER ALL CREATION

Jesus reveals the invisible God, and all things were created through Him and for Him. He existed before creation and continues to hold it together. The Savior we trust is Lord over every power and authority, giving us reason for confidence even when circumstances overwhelm us. (Colossians 1:15–17; Hebrews 1:3; John 1:1–3)

3. JESUS BRINGS PEACE THROUGH THE CROSS

Christ is the head of the church and supreme in His resurrection from the dead. Through His blood shed on the cross, He provides reconciliation and peace with God. We receive that peace through faith in Him, relying on His sacrifice rather than trying to earn salvation ourselves. (Colossians 1:18–20; Romans 5:1; Ephesians 2:13–16)

4. JESUS RECONCILES SINNERS TO GOD

Paul reminds believers that they were once alienated from God through sinful thinking and actions. Through Christ’s death, they have been reconciled and can stand before God holy and without accusation. Our acceptance rests on Jesus’ finished work, giving us confidence to approach God with gratitude. (Colossians 1:21–22; 2 Corinthians 5:17–21; Romans 8:1)

5. LIVE THE RESCUE MISSION BY HELPING OTHERS FIND CHRIST

Paul urges believers to remain grounded in faith and hold firmly to the hope of the gospel. That same hope equips us to show mercy and point others toward Jesus. Pray for people, share the good news clearly, and trust God to work as you help others follow Christ. (Colossians 1:23; Philippians 1:6; Jude 22–23; Matthew 28:19–20)

BE ENCOURAGED

Jesus is sufficient to save you; you do not have to make yourself worthy of His rescue. Place your trust in Him and hold firmly to the hope of the gospel. If you already know His forgiveness, consider who needs to hear about it. Your willingness to listen, show compassion, and speak about Christ can help someone discover the hope you have received.

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Helping you understand and apply God’s Word. Find sermon transcripts and more Bible teaching at Well.faith. Learn more at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.church. Questions or feedback? Email [email protected]

What helps you keep following Jesus when life becomes difficult or progress feels slow? Teaching from 2 Timothy 2:1–7, Pastor Chris Teien explains how God’s grace strengthens ordinary believers to endure hardship, help others grow in faith, and make the most of their opportunities.

Paul’s pictures of a soldier, an athlete, and a farmer illustrate the focus, discipline, and patience involved in serving Christ. This Memorial Day message invites you to consider how everyday obedience and investment in others can leave a legacy of faith.

IN THIS MESSAGE

1. GOD’S GRACE STRENGTHENS YOU TO REPRODUCE YOUR FAITH

Paul tells Timothy to be strengthened by Christ’s grace and entrust what he has learned to faithful people who can teach others. Share the gospel, teach Scripture, and help someone put biblical truth into practice. As you invest in others, your influence can extend beyond the people you personally reach. (2 Timothy 2:1–2; Ephesians 2:8–10; Philippians 2:13)

2. GOD’S GRACE STRENGTHENS YOU TO REMAIN FAITHFUL

A soldier stays focused, an athlete follows the rules, and a farmer works patiently toward a harvest. Following Christ likewise requires endurance, discipline, and a willingness to serve before results appear. Depend on His grace when hardship or distractions make obedience difficult. (2 Timothy 2:3–6; Hebrews 11:6; Titus 2:11–12)

3. GOD’S GRACE HELPS YOU MAKE THE MOST OF EVERY OPPORTUNITY

Paul urges Timothy to reflect on his instruction and trust the Lord for understanding. Consider how your priorities and responsibilities fit with following Christ. Use your time and abilities thoughtfully, looking for opportunities to serve, encourage, and honor Him in ordinary life. (2 Timothy 2:7; Ephesians 5:15–17; Colossians 3:17)

4. GOD’S GRACE BUILDS A LEGACY THAT LASTS

Memorial Day invites us to remember those who gave their lives for others and consider how we are spending our own. Daily choices to love, obey, and invest in people have lasting significance. Live with eternity in view, seeking to leave an example that helps others know and follow Christ. (John 15:13; Hebrews 9:27; Psalm 116:15)

BE ENCOURAGED

Begin with the next faithful step. Encourage someone who needs support, offer to read Scripture together, or address a distraction that is keeping you from a responsibility. Ask Christ for strength and keep serving with patience. His grace sustains you as you invest your life in what lasts.

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Helping you understand and apply God’s Word. Find sermon transcripts and more Bible teaching at Well.faith. Learn more at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.church. Questions or feedback? Email [email protected]

What helps you stay faithful when following Jesus becomes costly or distractions pull you off course? Teaching from 2 Timothy 2:1–4, Pastor Chris Teien explores Paul’s call to serve as a good soldier of Christ, strengthened by grace and focused on pleasing the One you serve.

Discover how studying God’s Word, equipping others, and depending on His strength help you resist temptation and remain faithful. This message offers practical encouragement to examine your priorities, endure hardship, and keep eternity in view.

This replay was originally preached by Pastor Chris Teien in Belle Plaine, Minnesota, in 2021.

IN THIS MESSAGE

1. ENLIST AS A FAITHFUL SOLDIER OF CHRIST

Salvation is God’s gift, received through faith in Jesus rather than earned through service. Those who belong to Christ are called to follow Him and help others grow as His disciples. Begin with trust in the Savior, then depend on His grace for the responsibilities He gives you. (2 Timothy 2:1–2; Romans 10:9–10; Ephesians 2:8–9)

2. STAY FOCUSED ON CHRIST’S MISSION

Paul compares faithful service to a soldier seeking to please his commanding officer. Responsibilities and interests can become entanglements when they displace obedience to Christ. Examine your priorities and remain willing to make sacrifices that keep His purposes at the center of your life. (2 Timothy 2:3–4; Luke 9:23; Romans 12:1–2)

3. TRAIN YOURSELF AND EQUIP OTHERS

Paul instructs Timothy to entrust biblical truth to faithful people who can teach others. Grow in your understanding of Scripture, put it into practice, and share what you are learning. Investing in another believer helps prepare them to serve Christ and pass His truth to others. (2 Timothy 2:2, 15; Matthew 28:19–20; Joshua 1:8–9)

4. FIGHT THE GOOD FIGHT WITH GOD’S STRENGTH

Spiritual opposition calls for dependence on the Lord and the resources He provides. His armor, His Word, and prayer equip believers to stand against temptation and deception. Seek His strength rather than relying on determination alone, and keep bringing your concerns before Him. (1 Timothy 6:12; Ephesians 6:10–18; 2 Corinthians 10:4; Philippians 4:7)

5. LIVE FOR THE ETERNAL REWARD

Near the end of his life, Paul looked back on faithful perseverance and forward to the crown of righteousness. His example encourages us to value Christ’s approval above temporary comfort or recognition. Keep eternity in view as you use your time, make sacrifices, and fulfill the work before you. (2 Timothy 4:7–8; Matthew 6:33; Luke 9:24)

BE ENCOURAGED

Christ’s grace supplies strength for faithful service. Identify one distraction that needs a boundary and one responsibility that needs renewed attention. Make room for Scripture and prayer, seek encouragement from fellow believers, and help someone else grow. Keep your focus on pleasing Jesus as you take the next faithful step.

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Helping you understand and apply God’s Word. Find sermon transcripts and more Bible teaching at Well.faith. Learn more at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.church. Questions or feedback? Email [email protected]

How do you move forward when past failures have damaged a relationship? Teaching from Philemon 17–25, Pastor Chris Teien explores Paul’s appeal for Philemon to welcome Onesimus and explains how God’s grace changes the way we respond to guilt, debt, and broken trust.

Paul’s willingness to cover what Onesimus owed offers a picture of costly forgiveness. Discover how Christ’s sacrifice reconciles us to God and equips us to move beyond failure with humility, honesty, and hope.

IN THIS MESSAGE

1. GOD’S GRACE CHANGES HOW WE SEE OTHERS

Paul asks Philemon to welcome Onesimus as he would welcome Paul himself. Their shared relationship with Christ calls for a response shaped by grace. Remembering God’s mercy helps us see people beyond their failures and respond with compassion and forgiveness. (Philemon 17; Ephesians 4:32; Colossians 3:12–14)

2. GOD’S GRACE REMOVES BARRIERS AND PAYS THE DEBT

Paul offers to take responsibility for anything Onesimus owes Philemon. His appeal illustrates that forgiveness involves a real cost. Jesus bore the cost of our sin through the cross so that those who trust Him can receive forgiveness and reconciliation with God. (Philemon 18–19; Colossians 2:13–14; Romans 6:23)

3. GOD’S GRACE RESTORES RELATIONSHIPS

Paul asks Philemon to refresh his heart and expresses confidence in his obedience. Grace makes room for forgiveness and renewed fellowship, while rebuilding trust requires honesty and faithful action. Pursue reconciliation with humility, recognizing that healing may take time and involves the responses of those concerned. (Philemon 20–22; 2 Corinthians 5:17–20)

4. GOD’S GRACE BUILDS A FUTURE FILLED WITH HOPE

Paul ends his letter with a prayer for the grace of Jesus Christ to be with them. That same grace sustains believers through setbacks and change. Build your future on Christ’s faithfulness, and continue nurturing your walk with Him rather than relying on past spiritual involvement. (Philemon 23–25; Philippians 1:6; 2 Timothy 4:10)

BE ENCOURAGED

Your past does not have to determine every step ahead. Bring your failures to Christ and consider what responsibility you need to take in a damaged relationship. An honest apology, an effort to make amends, or a willingness to extend mercy can become a meaningful step toward healing. Trust God’s grace as you move forward with humility and hope.

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Helping you understand and apply God’s Word. Find sermon transcripts and more Bible teaching at Well.faith. Learn more at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.church. Questions or feedback? Email [email protected]

Does your faith feel routine, leaving you wondering how to become more involved in what God is doing? Teaching from Colossians 1:24–29, Pastor Chris Teien explores how serving others, sharing the gospel, and helping people grow in Christ give everyday life meaningful purpose.

Paul’s example connects wholehearted effort with dependence on Christ’s strength. Discover how to put biblical truth into practice through the relationships and opportunities before you, trusting God to work as you serve.

IN THIS MESSAGE

1. BOLD FAITH SERVES OTHERS WITH CHRIST’S STRENGTH

Paul’s ministry involved hardship and a responsibility to make God’s Word known. Every believer also has opportunities to serve Christ, whatever their occupation, age, or circumstances. Use the gifts and opportunities God has entrusted to you, following Jesus’ example of service and depending on His strength. (Colossians 1:24–25; Ephesians 2:10; Matthew 20:28)

2. BOLD FAITH SHARES THE GOSPEL WHEREVER GOD HAS PLACED YOU

The mystery God has revealed includes the glorious hope of Christ among the Gentiles: Christ in you, the hope of glory. This good news is worth sharing beyond familiar circles. Look for opportunities to explain who Jesus is and what He has done wherever you live, work, and serve. (Colossians 1:26–27; Matthew 28:19–20; Romans 10:14–15)

3. BOLD FAITH HELPS OTHERS GROW TO SPIRITUAL MATURITY

Paul proclaimed Christ, teaching and correcting with the goal of helping people become mature in Him. Christian ministry includes walking alongside believers as they learn to understand and obey God’s Word. Offer encouragement, welcome loving correction, and help others take practical steps of faith. (Colossians 1:28; 2 Timothy 3:16–17; Hebrews 10:24–25)

4. BOLD FAITH DEPENDS ON CHRIST’S POWER, NOT PERSONAL ABILITY

Paul worked diligently while recognizing that Christ’s power supplied his strength. Faithful service calls for effort and daily dependence on the Lord. Bring Him your limitations, remain willing to serve, and trust His help as you continue investing in others. (Colossians 1:29; Philippians 3:12–14; John 15:5)

BE ENCOURAGED

You can participate in God’s work through one faithful step today. Offer practical help, begin a conversation about Jesus, or invite someone to read Scripture with you. Ask Christ for courage and strength, then act on the opportunity before you. Your ordinary service can help another person discover His hope and grow in faith.

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Helping you understand and apply God’s Word. Find sermon transcripts and more Bible teaching at Well.faith. Learn more at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.church. Questions or feedback? Email [email protected]

What helps a mother’s influence reach beyond the years of raising children? Teaching from 2 Timothy 1:3–7, Pastor Chris Teien explores the sincere faith of Timothy’s mother Eunice and grandmother Lois, showing how everyday instruction, encouragement, and example can help the next generation follow Jesus.

This Mother’s Day message encourages mothers, grandmothers, mentors, and others investing in younger lives. Discover how to guide with grace, nurture God-given abilities, and model integrity while depending on God’s strength through your own weaknesses.

IN THIS MESSAGE

1. PASS ON A GENUINE FAITH

Paul recognized in Timothy the sincere faith that had first lived in Lois and Eunice. Their influence reminds us that faith is demonstrated through daily life as well as taught through words. Explain why you trust Christ, share His Word, and let those in your care see that trust shaping your choices. (Acts 16:1–5; 2 Timothy 1:3–5)

2. LEAD WITH GRACE AND LOVING GUIDANCE

Children need loving instruction, clear boundaries, and consistent correction. Help them understand what God teaches and why His ways are good. Patient guidance brings encouragement and accountability together as you nurture wisdom and character. (Proverbs 1:8–9; Proverbs 22:6; Proverbs 29:15, 17)

3. ENCOURAGE GOD-GIVEN GIFTS IN OTHERS

Paul urged Timothy to develop and use the gift God had given him. Parents, grandparents, and mentors can help younger people recognize their abilities and find opportunities to serve. Notice their strengths, offer thoughtful encouragement, and help them grow through practice and wise guidance. (2 Timothy 1:6–7; Exodus 18:17–23; Esther 4:14)

4. MODEL INTEGRITY EVERY DAY

Your example communicates what matters, especially when life is demanding. Honesty, humility, faithfulness, and reverence for God give substance to what you teach. Let younger people see you keeping commitments, admitting mistakes, and depending on the Lord in ordinary decisions. (Proverbs 31:25–31; Deuteronomy 4:9)

5. DEPEND ON GOD’S GRACE INSTEAD OF PERFECTION

You cannot meet every need or control every outcome. God’s sufficient grace invites you to seek His help in your weaknesses and continue serving with love. Rely on His strength as you fulfill your responsibilities and entrust those you love to His care. (2 Corinthians 12:9; 2 Timothy 1:7; Proverbs 31:30)

BE ENCOURAGED

Your faithful care matters, even when growth is difficult to see. Pray with someone younger, share a Scripture that has helped you, or encourage them to use an ability in service to others. Where you have fallen short, acknowledge it and seek forgiveness. Keep pointing them toward Jesus as you depend on His grace for your own growth.

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Helping you understand and apply God’s Word. Find sermon transcripts and more Bible teaching at Well.faith. Learn more at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.church. Questions or feedback? Email [email protected]

Do you believe your past mistakes make you the wrong person to follow Jesus? Teaching from Luke 5:27–32, Pastor Chris Teien explores Christ’s call to Levi, a tax collector whose reputation made him an unlikely disciple. Jesus invited him to follow, and Levi’s response created opportunities for others to meet the Savior.

Discover how Christ’s grace helps us respond to feelings of unworthiness, leave behind what hinders obedience, and openly identify with Him. Levi’s story reminds us that Jesus came to call sinners to repentance and that following Him includes helping others know Him.

IN THIS MESSAGE

1. WE ARE CALLED TO FOLLOW JESUS

Jesus saw Levi at his tax booth and called him to follow. Levi’s reputation did not place him beyond the reach of Christ’s grace. Respond to Jesus with faith and a willingness to learn, seeking His wisdom as you begin or renew your walk with Him. (Luke 5:27–28; James 1:5)

2. WE MUST LEAVE WHAT HOLDS US BACK

Levi got up, left everything, and followed Jesus. His response challenges us to examine what competes with obedience, including possessions, fear, public opinion, or shame about our past. Trust Christ and take practical steps to turn from whatever is keeping you from following Him faithfully. (Luke 5:28)

3. WE PUBLICLY IDENTIFY WITH JESUS

Levi hosted a banquet where friends and fellow tax collectors could meet Jesus. He used his existing relationships to introduce others to the One who had called him. Consider how hospitality, friendship, and honest conversations can help people hear about Christ. (Luke 5:29)

4. WE SHOULD EXPECT CRITICISM FOR FOLLOWING JESUS

The Pharisees questioned why Jesus and His disciples ate with tax collectors and sinners. Following Christ may bring criticism or misunderstanding, including over the people we seek to reach. Remain faithful to Him and respond with humility and compassion. (Luke 5:30; Matthew 5:11–12)

5. WE NEED COMPASSION FOR THOSE WHO NEED JESUS

Jesus compared His mission to a physician caring for the sick and declared that He came to call sinners to repentance. Remembering our own need for grace helps us approach others with compassion. Share the gospel with care and invite people to turn to Christ in faith. (Luke 5:31–32; Matthew 28:18–20)

6. WE GROW AS DISCIPLES WHO MAKE DISCIPLES

Following Jesus includes learning to obey Him and helping others do the same. Keep growing through Scripture, prayer, service, and dependence on the Holy Spirit. Invest patiently in others as they learn to trust Christ and put His teaching into practice. (Matthew 28:18–20; Acts 18:8)

BE ENCOURAGED

You do not have to make yourself worthy before coming to Jesus. Bring Him your sin in repentance and faith, and take one step of obedience you have been delaying. Think of someone you could welcome, listen to, or invite into a conversation about Christ. Let gratitude for His mercy shape how you follow Him and care for others.

18m0526der The Bold Secret to Unleashing your Faith

Helping you understand and apply God’s Word. Find sermon transcripts and more Bible teaching at Well.faith. Learn more at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.church. Questions or feedback? Email [email protected]

How can a damaged relationship move toward healing when the hurt is real? Teaching from Philemon 8–16, Pastor Chris Teien explores Paul’s appeal on behalf of Onesimus, showing how God’s grace changes people and opens opportunities for forgiveness and renewed fellowship.

Paul appealed through love, invited a willing response, and described the difference Christ had made in Onesimus. Discover how to recognize genuine growth, communicate without manipulation, and pursue restoration with humility and care.

IN THIS MESSAGE

1. GRACE GIVES THE FREEDOM TO RESPOND, NOT THE PRESSURE TO COMPLY

Paul had the authority to tell Philemon what he ought to do, yet chose to appeal on the basis of love. His approach encouraged a willing response. Consider how you can communicate truth with patience and compassion, giving others room to respond thoughtfully. (Philemon 8–9; 2 Corinthians 5:17)

2. GRACE CHANGES USELESS INTO USEFUL

Paul contrasts Onesimus’ former unhelpfulness with his new usefulness to both Paul and Philemon. This describes his changed contribution, rather than his worth as a person. Through Christ, someone who has failed can grow in faithfulness and become a blessing to others. Look for genuine change while allowing trust to develop through consistent actions. (Philemon 10–11)

3. GRACE RESPECTS THE OTHER PERSON’S FREE WILL

Paul wanted Onesimus to remain with him but would not act without Philemon’s consent. He wanted Philemon’s kindness to be voluntary. Respect another person’s responsibility to choose, and encourage generosity and service that flow from sincere love. (Philemon 12–14; Galatians 5:13)

4. GRACE SEES GOD’S HAND IN THE BIGGER STORY

Paul suggests that the temporary separation may have opened the way for Philemon to receive Onesimus forever as a beloved brother. He offers this possibility humbly, without claiming to know every reason behind what happened. God can work through painful circumstances to bring repentance, spiritual growth, and changed relationships. (Philemon 15–16)

BE ENCOURAGED

You can take a gracious step toward healing while leaving another person’s response in their hands. Pray about one strained relationship, examine your own conduct, and consider whether you need to apologize, listen, or offer an invitation to talk. Speak honestly, recognize genuine growth, and allow time for trust to be rebuilt. Depend on Christ’s grace as you pursue peace.

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Helping you understand and apply God’s Word. Find sermon transcripts and more Bible teaching at Well.faith. Learn more at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.church. Questions or feedback? Email [email protected]

No one can snatch you out of Jesus’ hand — and no one can snatch you out of the Father’s hand either. You are doubly secure when you truly belong to Christ. Are you sometimes afraid you’ll lose your salvation if you stumble or fail? In this encouraging clip, Pastor Chris reminds us from John 10:28–29 and Ephesians 1:13–14 that your salvation isn’t based on your perfection but on God’s promises. Even when you fall short, God’s Spirit is at work in you, shaping you to become more like Jesus. Stop relying on your own strength to stay faithful, and start resting in God’s unshakable grip. Let this truth bring peace to your soul and motivate you to grow in Christ every day.

Listen to the full episode here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/16925910

Helping you apply God's Word and follow Jesus in everyday life. Learn more at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.church  Find episode transcripts at Well.faith