Chris Teien | Well Faith Sermons

When life is painful, does it mean God is disappointed in you? Teaching from Hebrews 12:5–11, Pastor Chris Teien explains how God’s discipline expresses His love for His children and helps them grow in faith, obedience, and maturity.

Not every hardship is punishment for a specific sin. Biblical discipline includes correction, instruction, and training. Discover how to receive God’s guidance without confusing it with rejection, and why His training can produce righteousness and peace even when the process is difficult.

IN THIS MESSAGE

1. GOD CORRECTS THOSE HE LOVES

Hebrews encourages believers neither to dismiss God’s discipline nor lose heart under it. Like a good coach who helps an athlete improve, God corrects His children with their growth in view. Receive His instruction with a teachable heart, remembering that His correction flows from love. (Hebrews 12:5–6; Proverbs 3:11–12; Revelation 3:19)

2. GOD’S DISCIPLINE CONFIRMS OUR IDENTITY AS HIS CHILDREN

God’s fatherly training reflects His relationship with those who belong to Christ. Your place in His family comes through faith in Jesus, and His loving care includes helping you grow. Approach Him as your Father rather than assuming correction means He has rejected you. (Hebrews 12:7–8; John 1:12; Romans 8:15–16; Galatians 4:4–7)

3. TRUST GOD’S TRAINING FOR FUTURE GROWTH

God disciplines His people for their good so they may share in His holiness. His purposes reach beyond immediate comfort to the character and faithfulness He is developing. Submit to His guidance and consider what needs to change in your attitudes, habits, or priorities. (Hebrews 12:9–10; John 15:1–2)

4. LASTING SPIRITUAL GROWTH COMES THROUGH GOD’S LOVING DISCIPLINE

Discipline feels painful in the moment, but Hebrews points to the righteousness and peace it produces in those trained by it. Growth takes time and calls for a willing response to God’s work. Keep trusting Him as He strengthens your faith and prepares you for fruitful service. (Hebrews 12:11; 2 Corinthians 4:16–18)

BE ENCOURAGED

God’s loving correction gives you reason to grow rather than give up. Read Hebrews 12:5–11 and ask Him to help you receive His instruction with a teachable heart. Respond to what His Word makes clear, seek wise counsel where needed, and trust your heavenly Father’s care as you continue growing.

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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 comparing your life with someone else’s leave you discouraged or distracted? Teaching from Hebrews 12:1–4, Pastor Chris Teien explains how to run faithfully by keeping your eyes on Jesus, remembering His victory, and persevering through the challenges before you.

Your circumstances and opportunities may differ from another believer’s, but Christ gives you reason to keep going. Discover how His example and finished work strengthen your faith as you pursue the responsibilities God has entrusted to you.

IN THIS MESSAGE

1. RUN THE RACE GOD HAS MARKED OUT FOR YOU

Hebrews calls believers to run with perseverance while laying aside sin and whatever hinders them. Give attention to the course before you rather than measuring your progress against someone else’s. God has prepared good works for His people, and your everyday faithfulness matters. (Hebrews 12:1; Ephesians 2:10)

2. KEEP YOUR EYES FIXED ON JESUS

Jesus is the pioneer and perfecter of faith, the One who leads us and brings His work to completion. Return your attention to Him when circumstances, past failures, or distractions dominate your thoughts. His faithfulness gives you a foundation for taking the next step. (Hebrews 12:2; Psalm 16:8; Philippians 1:6)

3. REMEMBER THE VICTORY CHRIST HAS ALREADY WON

Jesus endured the cross, despised its shame, and sat down at God’s right hand. His completed sacrifice provides our salvation and gives us lasting hope. Let what He has accomplished strengthen your confidence as you follow Him. (Hebrews 12:2; Philippians 2:8–11; Hebrews 10:12)

4. PERSEVERE WITHOUT LOSING HEART

Hebrews directs weary believers to consider the opposition Jesus endured. His example helps us face hardship without assuming that difficulty means we should stop following Him. Keep an eternal perspective and depend on His help as you continue in faith. (Hebrews 12:3–4; 2 Corinthians 4:16–18; 1 Peter 2:21)

BE ENCOURAGED

Give your attention to the race before you. Set aside a distraction, approach a responsibility with renewed commitment, and ask Jesus for strength where you feel weary. Return to Hebrews 12:1–4 and consider what He endured for you. His faithfulness gives you reason to keep going, even when you cannot see the finish line.

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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 is slowing you down in your walk with Christ? Teaching from Hebrews 12:1, Pastor Chris Teien explores how faithful examples, honest self-examination, and purposeful choices help believers run with endurance.

Following Jesus calls for intentional effort and dependence on Him. Discover how to recognize spiritual hindrances, learn from those who persevered, and keep serving faithfully when progress feels difficult or unnoticed.

IN THIS MESSAGE

1. LEARN FROM THOSE WHO FINISHED WELL

Hebrews 11 recounts people who trusted God through uncertainty, hardship, and costly obedience. Their testimony encourages us to persevere even when we cannot see the fulfillment of every promise. Learn from their faith and let their examples strengthen your confidence in God. (Hebrews 11; Hebrews 12:1; Romans 15:4)

2. REMOVE WHATEVER HOLDS YOU BACK

Hebrews distinguishes between the sin that entangles us and other weights that hinder our progress. Examine habits, distractions, bitterness, and priorities that compete with following Christ. Confess sin, extend forgiveness, and make practical changes that help you give God your attention and obedience. (Hebrews 12:1; Colossians 3:2; Ephesians 4:31–32; 1 John 1:9)

3. RUN YOUR GOD-GIVEN RACE WITH PERSEVERANCE

Endurance grows as we keep choosing faithfulness in the responsibilities before us. Resist comparison, practice spiritual discipline, and continue doing good even when you feel weary. The race of faith calls for a lasting commitment to follow Christ rather than a brief burst of enthusiasm. (Hebrews 12:1; 1 Corinthians 9:24–27; Galatians 6:9)

BE ENCOURAGED

Identify something that is hindering your walk with Christ and take a practical step to address it. Read about a believer in Hebrews 11 whose example encourages you, and ask God for endurance in your own circumstances. Keep investing in what has lasting value, even when the results take time.

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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 decide what deserves your time, attention, and energy? Teaching from 1 Peter 4:1–11, Pastor Chris Teien explores five priorities that help believers live for God: enduring hardship faithfully, choosing His will, keeping eternity in view, loving others deeply, and using their gifts to serve.

Whether you are setting new goals or reconsidering familiar routines, this message offers a biblical foundation for purposeful living. Discover how your attitudes, relationships, and everyday responsibilities can reflect Christ and bring glory to God.

IN THIS MESSAGE

1. DEVELOP AN ATTITUDE THAT ENDURES

Peter calls believers to approach suffering with the resolve Christ demonstrated. Hardship can test your willingness to obey, but Jesus’ example encourages you to entrust yourself to God and remain faithful. Prepare your heart to follow Him even when obedience is costly. (1 Peter 4:1; 1 Peter 2:23)

2. CHOOSE GOD’S WILL OVER WORLDLY DESIRES

Following Jesus changes what we pursue and how we spend our remaining time. Leave behind sinful patterns and resist pressure to return to your former way of life. God’s grace teaches us to reject ungodliness and choose what honors Him. (1 Peter 4:2–6; Romans 6:11–14; Titus 2:11–14)

3. LIVE WITH ETERNITY IN MIND

Peter connects an eternal perspective with clear thinking, self-control, and prayer. Recognizing that your time is limited helps you give attention to what matters most. Bring your plans before God and make room to seek Him amid daily demands. (1 Peter 4:7; Psalm 90:12)

4. LOVE OTHERS DEEPLY

Deep love makes room for patience, forgiveness, and hospitality without complaining. Look for ways to welcome and care for others, especially when doing so requires effort or interrupts your plans. Your treatment of fellow believers should reflect the love of Jesus. (1 Peter 4:8–9; John 13:35)

5. USE YOUR SPIRITUAL GIFTS FOR GOD’S GLORY

God has given every believer gifts to use in serving others. Whether you speak or provide practical help, depend on His strength and aim to honor Him. Faithful service builds up the church and directs attention to the God who supplies what we need. (1 Peter 4:10–11; Ephesians 4:11–13)

BE ENCOURAGED

Read 1 Peter 4:1–11 alongside your current commitments and consider what needs greater attention. Bring a difficult situation to God, make room for prayer, care for someone you have overlooked, or offer your gifts where help is needed. Ask Him to shape your priorities and strengthen you to act on what His Word teaches.

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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 are you willing to pursue in search of lasting joy? In Matthew 2:1–12, the Magi traveled to find Jesus and responded with worship when they reached Him. Pastor Chris Teien explores how their journey challenges us to seek Christ, act on what God reveals, and offer Him our best.

Discover how fear, comfort, and competing priorities can hold us back from following Jesus. This message encourages you to move beyond simply knowing about Him and respond with faith, obedience, and wholehearted worship.

IN THIS MESSAGE

1. TAKE THE FIRST STEP TOWARD JESUS

The Magi responded to the sign they had seen and began searching for the newborn King. Their journey invites us to consider how we respond to what God has made known. Seek Christ and act on His truth, even when you do not know every detail of what comes next. (Matthew 2:1–2; Isaiah 55:6; James 4:8)

2. DO NOT LET FEAR OR COMFORT KEEP YOU FROM CHRIST

Herod saw Jesus as a threat, while the religious leaders identified His birthplace from Scripture without joining the Magi’s search in Matthew’s account. Knowing biblical facts is different from responding in faith. Examine whether fear, convenience, or a desire for control is keeping you from following Christ. (Matthew 2:3–8; Matthew 16:24)

3. FOLLOW THE LIGHT GOD GIVES YOU

The Magi rejoiced as the star led them toward Jesus. God’s Word gives us guidance for our own response to Christ, calling us to practice what we learn. Take the next step Scripture makes clear rather than waiting until every uncertainty is resolved. (Matthew 2:9–10; Psalm 119:105; James 1:22)

4. OFFER JESUS YOUR BEST

The Magi bowed before Jesus and presented their gifts. Their worship challenges us to consider whether Christ has first place in our time, resources, abilities, and devotion. Offer yourself to Him with gratitude and a willingness to serve. (Matthew 2:11–12; Romans 12:1)

BE ENCOURAGED

Lasting joy is found in the Savior the Magi came to worship. Make time to seek Him, act on an instruction you have been resisting, or offer something you have been holding back. You do not need every uncertainty resolved to respond faithfully to Jesus. Let your pursuit of joy draw you closer to Him.

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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 happens when fear begins to crowd out the joy God wants us to experience? Teaching from Luke 2:1–20, Pastor Chris Teien looks again at the familiar Christmas story and the fears, hardships, surprises, and acts of faith surrounding the birth of Jesus.

The angel told the shepherds, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.” That same good news can help us face uncertainty today. This message encourages you to trust God through difficult circumstances, recognize where fear is controlling you, respond faithfully to His leading, and share the joy of Jesus with others.

IN THIS MESSAGE

1: REMEMBER THAT GOD WORKS THROUGH DIFFICULT CIRCUMSTANCES

Mary and Joseph faced an inconvenient journey, difficult timing, and humble accommodations. Yet God was working through those circumstances to fulfill His purposes. You may not immediately understand what God is doing in your own difficulties, but you can continue praying, trusting, and faithfully taking the next step. (Luke 2:1–7; Romans 8:28)

2: RECOGNIZE WHERE FEAR SHOWS UP IN YOUR LIFE

The shepherds were terrified when the glory of the Lord suddenly surrounded them. Fear can also appear in our lives through finances, health concerns, relationships, work, uncertainty, or even the thought of talking to someone about Jesus. Name what you are afraid of and bring it honestly to God. (Luke 2:8–9; Psalm 34:4)

3: RECEIVE GOD’S PEACE AND GOOD NEWS

The angel’s first words were, “Do not be afraid.” The shepherds were not being condemned. They were being given good news that would bring great joy. Scripture reminds us that God offers forgiveness, salvation, and peace through Jesus Christ. (Luke 2:10)

4: REFOCUS YOUR HOPE ON THE SAVIOR

The answer to the shepherds’ fear was not simply positive thinking. A Savior had been born. Jesus is the Messiah and Lord. When circumstances feel uncertain, refocus your attention on who Christ is and what He has already done for you. (Luke 2:11–12)

5: REJOICE IN GOD’S PROMISE OF PEACE AND FAVOR

The shepherds witnessed a great company of angels praising God and announcing peace. Christmas reminds us that God has acted decisively in human history by sending His Son. Our joy rests in God’s grace and His promises, not merely in comfortable circumstances. (Luke 2:13–14)

6: RESPOND TO GOD’S LEADING WITH OBEDIENT STEPS

The shepherds did not simply discuss what the angels had told them. They went to Bethlehem and found Mary, Joseph, and Jesus just as they had been told. When God gives you an opportunity to obey, serve, encourage, give, or share your faith, take the next faithful step. (Luke 2:15–16)

7: RETELL WHAT GOD HAS DONE AND LET JOY GROW

After seeing Jesus, the shepherds spread the word about what they had experienced. Mary treasured these things in her heart, and the shepherds returned glorifying and praising God. Remember what God has done in your own life and tell others about it. Your story may become the encouragement someone else needs. (Luke 2:17–20)

BE ENCOURAGED

Fear focuses on everything that might go wrong, but Christian joy is anchored in what God has already done and promised to do. Bring your fears to Him, remember His faithfulness, and keep responding obediently to His leading. Then share the good news. The Savior has come, and that is still a reason for great joy.

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]

Who helps you trust God when you are facing something unfamiliar or overwhelming? Teaching from Luke 1:36–55, Pastor Chris Teien explores Mary’s visit to Elizabeth and how their encounter brought encouragement, affirmation, and joyful worship during an extraordinary season.

Discover how God uses fellow believers to remind us of His promises and strengthen our faith. This message invites you to receive encouragement, remember God’s faithfulness, and consider how your words, prayers, and presence can help someone else follow Christ.

IN THIS MESSAGE

1. GOD OFTEN SENDS ENCOURAGEMENT AT THE RIGHT TIME

After learning that Elizabeth was also expecting a child, Mary traveled to visit her. Their meeting gave Mary an opportunity to hear encouragement from someone experiencing God’s work in her own life. Look for faithful people who can help you trust God through unfamiliar circumstances. (Luke 1:36; Luke 1:39–45)

2. THE HOLY SPIRIT STRENGTHENS AND ENCOURAGES BELIEVERS

Filled with the Holy Spirit, Elizabeth recognized what God was doing and spoke words that affirmed Mary’s faith. Her response reminds us to depend on the Spirit as we encourage others. Ask God to help you speak truth with care and direct attention toward Him. (Luke 1:41–45; Ephesians 5:18)

3. REMEMBER GOD’S FAITHFULNESS IN EVERY SEASON

Elizabeth called Mary blessed for believing that the Lord would fulfill His promises. Our confidence also grows as we remember God’s character and trust what He has revealed. Help one another hold on to biblical truth when circumstances raise questions or stir anxiety. (Luke 1:45; Romans 15:13)

4. WORSHIP GOD FOR HIS GRACE AND HIS PLAN

Mary’s song magnifies the Lord and celebrates His mercy, power, and faithfulness. Remembering His goodness turns our attention toward gratitude and worship. Take time to recognize what God has done and praise Him alongside others. (Luke 1:46–55; Psalm 103:1–5)

5. BECOME AN ENCOURAGER IN SOMEONE ELSE’S LIFE

Your words and presence can help another believer keep trusting Christ. Listen carefully, pray together, and offer encouragement grounded in God’s Word. Consistent care can make a meaningful difference even when you never see its full effect. (Ephesians 4:29; Hebrews 10:24–25)

BE ENCOURAGED

Reach out to a trusted believer when you need prayer or support, and make room to care for someone facing an uncertain season. Share a Scripture, listen without rushing, or pray together. You do not need to have every answer to offer encouragement. Ask God to use your friendship to strengthen their faith and yours.

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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 keep trusting God when you have prayed for years and nothing seems to change? Through the story of Zechariah and Elizabeth in Luke 1:5–25, Pastor Chris Teien explores how to remain faithful through disappointment, bring your requests to God, and trust Him with answers you cannot predict.

Their story reminds us that waiting does not mean God has forgotten us. Discover how His faithfulness gives us reason for hope and how joy can grow through knowing Him, even before our circumstances change.

IN THIS MESSAGE

1. REMAIN FAITHFUL WHILE YOU WAIT

Zechariah and Elizabeth lived faithfully before God while carrying the sorrow of having no children. Their disappointment did not mean they lacked faith or had failed to obey. Continue following God in the responsibilities before you, even while bringing Him your unresolved questions and pain. (Luke 1:5–7; 2 Timothy 3:16–17)

2. TRUST THAT GOD HEARS EVERY PRAYER

The angel told Zechariah that his prayer had been heard, announcing an answer he struggled to believe. God invites us to keep praying while trusting His wisdom about the response. A long wait does not place your concerns beyond His attention or care. (Luke 1:8–20; Psalm 27:14)

3. BELIEVE THAT GOD IS WORKING BEHIND THE SCENES

John’s birth would fulfill a purpose far beyond his parents’ hopes: preparing people for the coming of the Lord. God’s work reaches beyond what we can see in our immediate circumstances. Trust His purposes without assuming you must understand every delay before you can follow Him. (Luke 1:8–17; Malachi 4:5–6; Romans 8:28)

4. EXPECT GOD TO WORK IN UNEXPECTED WAYS

Zechariah questioned the announcement because he and Elizabeth were advanced in years. Yet God fulfilled His word through circumstances they could not have arranged themselves. Remain open to His work, remembering that His answers may differ from what you expect. (Luke 1:18–25; Luke 1:37)

BE ENCOURAGED

Bring your long-standing requests to God honestly, including the disappointment you may find difficult to express. Remember a way He has already shown His faithfulness, and keep serving in the opportunities before you. You can entrust the outcome to Him without pretending the wait is easy. Let your hope rest in His character as you continue following Jesus.

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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 gives you reason to be thankful when circumstances are difficult? Drawing from 1 Peter 1:1–2 and 2:9–10, 21, Pastor Chris Teien explores how God’s grace, your place in His family, and His purpose for your life provide a lasting foundation for gratitude.

Thankfulness grows as we remember who we are in Christ and what God has done for us. Discover how that assurance can shape your worship, relationships, service, and willingness to tell others about His mercy.

IN THIS MESSAGE

1. BE THANKFUL THAT GOD CHOSE YOU

Peter describes believers as chosen according to God’s foreknowledge, through the sanctifying work of the Spirit, for obedience to Jesus Christ. Salvation begins with God’s grace rather than our achievements or worthiness. Reflect on His saving work and respond with gratitude for the privilege of belonging to Christ. (1 Peter 1:1–2; Ephesians 1:4–5; John 15:16)

2. BE THANKFUL THAT YOU BELONG TO GOD’S FAMILY

Peter reminds believers that they are God’s people who have received His mercy. Through Christ, we belong to a family where we can encourage, serve, and strengthen one another. Give thanks for that shared identity and invest in the relationships God has provided through His church. (1 Peter 2:9–10; Romans 12:5; Ephesians 2:19)

3. BE THANKFUL THAT GOD HAS A PURPOSE FOR YOUR LIFE

God calls His people to declare His praises and follow Christ’s example. Your gifts, relationships, and everyday opportunities can become ways to honor Him and help others. Consider how you can use what He has entrusted to you in faithful service. (1 Peter 2:9, 21; Ephesians 2:10)

4. EXPRESS YOUR GRATITUDE THROUGH WORSHIP AND OBEDIENCE

A thankful heart finds expression in prayer, praise, loving actions, and faithful choices. Let gratitude influence how you speak, serve, and respond to daily circumstances. Remembering God’s goodness helps you honor Him beyond a holiday or a moment of blessing. (Colossians 3:15–17; 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18)

BE ENCOURAGED

God’s mercy gives you a reason for gratitude that reaches beyond today’s circumstances. Thank Him for His grace, your place among His people, and the opportunities He gives you to serve. Let that gratitude become visible: encourage a fellow believer, offer practical help, or tell someone what Christ has done for you.

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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 keep following Jesus when hardship leaves you weary or discouraged? Teaching from 1 Peter 4:12–19 and 5:6–10, Pastor Chris Teien explores how to face trials, bring your anxieties to God, and stand firm in faith when the pressure continues.

Peter reminds believers that suffering does not place them beyond God’s care. Discover how trusting your faithful Creator, continuing to do good, and remembering His promises can help you persevere with hope.

IN THIS MESSAGE

1. PREPARE FOR THE PRESSURE OF TRIALS

Peter tells believers not to be surprised by the fiery trials they face. Opposition and suffering can accompany faithful obedience, and difficulty does not necessarily mean you have taken the wrong path. Let Scripture prepare your expectations and strengthen your resolve to follow Christ. (1 Peter 4:12–13; James 1:2–4)

2. PRAISE CHRIST IN THE PAIN

Peter distinguishes suffering for Christ from suffering caused by wrongdoing. When obedience brings opposition, you can honor Jesus without being ashamed of belonging to Him. Continue worshiping and trusting Him, remembering the Spirit’s presence and the promise of sharing in Christ’s glory. (1 Peter 4:14–16; Romans 8:17; Philippians 3:10)

3. PLACE YOUR LIFE IN GOD’S HANDS

Peter calls those who suffer according to God’s will to entrust themselves to their faithful Creator and continue doing good. Trusting God includes choosing obedience when circumstances tempt you toward bitterness, retaliation, or withdrawal. Place what you cannot control in His hands while remaining faithful in what He has given you to do. (1 Peter 4:19; 1 Peter 5:6–7)

4. BRING EVERY CARE TO GOD IN PRAYER

God invites you to cast your anxieties on Him because He cares for you. Bring specific concerns before Him rather than assuming you must carry them alone. Prayer gives you a place to seek His help and peace while the outcome remains uncertain. (1 Peter 5:6–7; Philippians 4:6–7)

5. STAND FIRM AGAINST THE ENEMY

Remain alert to spiritual opposition and resist the devil by standing firm in the faith. Remember that other believers also face suffering, and seek strength through God’s truth and your shared life in Christ. The God of all grace promises to restore, strengthen, and establish His people. (1 Peter 5:8–10; Ephesians 6:10–18)

BE ENCOURAGED

You can be honest about your weariness and still keep turning toward Christ. Bring your burdens to God, ask a trusted believer for support, and continue doing good in the responsibilities before you. Return to 1 Peter 5:6–10 when you need reassurance: God cares for you and has called you to His eternal glory in Christ.

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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]