First Christian Church of Brazil Indiana Sermons

In this powerful Easter season sermon from FCC Brazil's "March on Mission" series, new Senior Minister Dan Stribling (his second sermon after Chris Gregg's retirement) unpacks the Triumphal Entry in Luke 19:28-44. Discover the hidden truth behind Jesus' humble arrival on a donkey—fulfilling prophecy, the real meaning of "Hosanna" as a desperate cry for salvation, why the crowds misunderstood their expected warrior King, Jesus' weeping over Jerusalem's coming destruction, and powerful lessons on purposeful obedience, bold worship despite criticism, and Christ-like compassion. What we expect isn't always what God delivers—but His plan is far greater.

Join us as Dan challenges us to accept Jesus for who He truly is, keep our "hands up" in worship, and love others with His heart—even through rejection.

Sermon Outline Highlights:

Purposeful Preparation: Fulfilling Zechariah 9:9 with intentional purity

Praise of the King: Cloaks, branches, and the true plea of Hosanna

Perseverance Through Criticism: "The stones would cry out"

Compassion in Brokenness: Jesus weeps over the city (unique to Luke)

This message is part of our ongoing Easter series following Jesus' journey to the cross and resurrection.

First Christian Church (FCC) Brazil, Indiana

Senior Minister: Dan Stribling

Subscribe for more biblical teaching and encouragement!

Connect with us:

Website: fccbrazil.org

All socials: @fccbrazil

Contact: [email protected]

#TriumphalEntry #Luke19 #PalmSunday #EasterSermon #JesusKing #Hosanna #BibleTeaching #MarchOnMission #FCCBrazil

Worship Uncoiled is our main worship service for students grades 6-12. Worship Uncoiled meets on Sunday nights from 6:00-8:00 and includes a full meal, a game, prizes, a time of worship, a short practical lesson and a time of small groups. We would love to have you join us. Feel free to contact our student minister, CJ Muston (CJMuston@FCCBrazil) with any questions.

Welcome to the FCC Brazil podcast! Join us for the launch of our Easter sermon series "March on Mission" with new Senior Minister Dan Stribling preaching his first message since Chris Gregg's retirement. In this powerful sermon on Luke 9:51 ("When the days drew near for him to be taken up, he set his face to go to Jerusalem"), Dan explores Jesus' laser-focused resolve, tunnel vision on mission, facing rejection without retaliation, and refocusing in love to guide people home. Discover how Christ's example empowers us to stay on target amid opposition—perfect for Easter preparation!

Dan shares relatable stories (like his guitar journey) and practical lessons: eyes on the prize, stay the course, love over retaliation, and doing all in love (1 Corinthians 16:14). This is the start of Jesus' final lap to the cross—don't miss how it applies to our mission today.

Key Moments:

00:00:35 – Welcome & Personal Story (Guitar Illustration Begins)

00:01:41 – Have You Ever Wanted Something So Bad? (Tunnel Vision Intro)

00:02:05 – Tunnel Vision Explained + Audience Interaction

00:03:38 – Introducing the "March on Mission" Easter Series

00:04:52 – Picking Up the Story: Jesus Heads to Jerusalem

00:05:58 – Reading Luke 9:51–56 (Core Scripture Passage)

00:07:07 – Christ's Resolute Determination ("Set His Face")

00:08:31 – The Start of the Final Lap + Isaiah 50 Reference

00:10:42 – Luke Illustrates Unwavering Resolve

00:11:30 – Facing Rejection in Samaria (Opposition Begins)

00:13:11 – Historical Context: Jews & Samaritans (John 4 Insight)

00:15:50 – Rejection Comes with the Mission (John 15 Quote)

00:17:54 – We Are "Little Christs" – Expect Opposition

00:18:25 – Disciples' Reaction: Call Fire from Heaven?

00:19:53 – Sons of Thunder + Elijah Allusion

00:20:31 – Do You Ever Feel Like Calling Fire? (Modern Examples)

00:22:34 – Jesus' Response: Rebuke & Refocus (Luke 9:55–56)

00:23:13 – Not Condemnation, but Salvation (John 3:17)

00:24:07 – Jesus Moves On – No Retaliation

00:25:30 – Application: Respond in Love, Refocus on Mission

00:26:44 – Key Takeaways: Eyes on the Prize + No Retaliation

00:27:41 – Quote: Good News with an Open Heart

00:28:03 – Final Verse: 1 Corinthians 16:14

00:28:14 – Closing Prayer & Amen

Subscribe for more from FCC Brazil—your home for guiding people home! New sermons weekly. Like, comment your biggest takeaway, and share with someone needing mission focus this Easter.

Connect with us:

Website: fccbrazil.org

All socials: @fccbrazil

Contact: [email protected]

#Luke951 #EasterSeries #MarchOnMission #DanStribling #FCCBrazil #SetHisFace #JesusResolve #ChristianMission #Easter2026

Senior Minister Chris Gregg's powerful final sermon at FCC Brazil: "Forward with Joy Part 7" from Philippians 4:1-9. Discover the hidden truth behind standing firm in the Lord, rejoicing always, overcoming anxiety through prayer, and finding God's surpassing peace. Joy in transitions, lasting peace in Christ—must-watch farewell message! #Philippians4 #StandFirm #JoyInTheLord #GodsPeace #FCCBrazil

In this emotional closing sermon of the "Forward with Joy" series, Chris Gregg preaches on Philippians 4:1–9 as his last message before retirement. Paul’s words from prison call the church to stand firm in the Lord, rejoice always, redirect anxiety through prayer and thanksgiving, guard hearts with God’s peace, and focus minds on what is true, honorable, pure, and praiseworthy.

Key takeaways:

Stability isn't in circumstances, leaders, or routines—it's anchored in Christ alone.

Joy is a discipline rooted in the Lord, not moods or familiarity.

Prayer transforms us more than situations, inviting the God of peace Himself.

Intentional thinking and practice sustain faith for whatever lies ahead.

Chris reflects personally: This transition isn't loss—it's faithful release. His confidence has always been in the Lord, not one person or season. Step forward with hope—Christ remains the same.

Subscribe for more encouraging messages from First Christian Church Brazil!

All social: @fccbrazil

Contact: [email protected]

Watch the full series playlist for the complete "Forward with Joy" journey. Share if this spoke to you!

Forward with Joy Part 6: Pressing On Toward What Matters Most | Philippians 3:12-14 sermon by Senior Minister Chris Gregg at FCC Brazil. Discover the hidden truth in Philippians 3 about lasting joy—admit you haven't arrived, press on because Christ has claimed you, forget what's behind, and strain toward the heavenly goal. Overcome mid-February fatigue, spiritual tiredness, and feeling stuck with grace-fueled effort and renewed hope in Christ Jesus. #Philippians3 #PressOn #ChristianJoy #ForwardWithJoy #BibleSermon

In this powerful message from the "Forward with Joy" series, Chris Gregg unpacks Philippians 3:12-14 to show how joy grows through honest realism ("I haven't obtained this yet"), security in Christ's grip ("because Christ Jesus has made me his own"), releasing the past ("forgetting what lies behind"), and fixed focus on the prize ("the upward call of God in Christ Jesus").

Whether you're feeling behind on resolutions, quietly wondering if progress is real, or just tired in your faith walk—this sermon reorients you: Joy doesn't come from standing still or perfection. It comes from pressing forward in grace, not striving in fear.

Key points covered:

Holy realism: Paul confesses he's not perfect after decades of ministry

Grace keeps us balanced—avoid pride or despair

Effort redirected by grace, like a loved toddler learning to walk

One thing: Forget replaying the past and strain toward what's ahead

Clear goal: Christ Himself as the prize of the upward call

Perfect for anyone in transition, mid-winter spiritual slumps, or seeking enduring joy beyond circumstances.

Subscribe for more from FCC Brazil's podcast series! New sermons weekly to help you grow in Christ.

Connect with us:

All socials: @fccbrazil

Email: [email protected]

If this encouraged you, like, comment your biggest takeaway, and share with someone needing to "press on" today!

Discover the hidden truth in Philippians 3: lasting joy isn't in achievements, religious performance, or self-confidence—it's in knowing Christ Jesus as Lord. Senior Minister Chris Gregg reveals why we must count everything as loss for the surpassing worth of Christ. Forward with Joy Part 5 – no confidence in the flesh!

In this powerful message from Philippians 3:1-11, Senior Minister Chris Gregg continues the "Forward with Joy" series, showing how joy that lasts comes when our confidence is fully in Christ—not our resume, traditions, or religious checklists.

Paul warns against "dogs" who mutilate the flesh and put confidence in human effort. Instead, true believers worship by the Spirit, glory in Christ Jesus, and count all worldly gains as rubbish for the surpassing worth of knowing Christ—His resurrection power, fellowship in suffering, and righteousness by faith.

Chris shares relatable stories (YMCA loyalty, delayed packages, New Year resolutions fading) to illustrate how circumstances steal joy when it's not anchored in Jesus. The big idea: Christ becomes our greatest gain, and being found in Him is our deepest security.

Key verses:

Philippians 3:3 – "put no confidence in the flesh"

Philippians 3:8 – "surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord"

Philippians 3:9-10 – righteousness through faith, knowing Him and His power

Whether you're battling uncertainty, performance pressure, or fading motivation, this sermon calls us to deeper discipleship and unshakable joy in Christ alone.

Subscribe for more from FCC Brazil's "Forward with Joy" series! New sermons weekly.

Connect with us:

All socials: @fccbrazil

Email: [email protected]

Chapters:

00:00 – Intro: New Year energy fades into reality

00:40 – Big Idea: Joy that lasts is found in Christ alone

01:57 – Chris's YMCA loyalty & January gym crowds

02:20 – Spiritual parallel: Grabbing for what feels solid

03:11 – Scripture reading: Philippians 3:1-3

03:55 – Joy's true location: Rejoice in the Lord (command)

05:13 – Youth ministry fun vs. deeper senior ministry joy

06:12 – Real threat to joy: Religion without Christ

07:03 – Checklist faith vs. relationship with Jesus

07:59 – Verse 3 breakdown: Worship by the Spirit, no confidence in the flesh

09:01 – Question: What do you reach for under pressure?

09:50 – Paul's impressive resume (verses 4-6)

10:58 – Resume trap & scoreboard trap (God "owes" me)

12:44 – Gospel truth: God loves you on your worst/best day

13:40 – Joy when Christ is our greatest gain (verse 7)

14:00 – Recalculating: Gain vs. loss for Christ

15:11 – Verse 8: Surpassing worth of knowing Christ

16:46 – Billionaire analogy – losing $10 means nothing

18:00 – Verse 9: Found in Him, righteousness by faith

19:23 – Verse 10-11: Knowing Christ, power, suffering, resurrection

20:54 – Depth over perfection; deepest moments in the valley

21:31 – Ledger: What defines you – approval or Christ?

22:53 – Church moves forward when Christ is the treasure

23:18 – Personal story: Delayed USPS package frustration

25:57 – Handling circumstances with joy intact

26:21 – Closing encouragement & repeated prayer

26:58 – Final prayer: Expose false confidence, know Christ deeper

#Philippians3 #KnowingChrist #LastingJoy #NoConfidenceInTheFlesh #ForwardWithJoy #FCCBrazil #ChristianSermon #BibleStudy #JoyInChrist #SurpassingWorth

Worship Uncoiled is our main worship service for students grades 6-12. Worship Uncoiled meets on Sunday nights from 6:00-8:00 and includes a full meal, a game, prizes, a time of worship, a short practical lesson and a time of small groups. We would love to have you join us. Feel free to contact our student minister, CJ Muston (CJMuston@FCCBrazil) with any questions.

Join Worship Minister Dan Stribling in his inspiring trial sermon, "The Great Adventure," at First Christian Church Brazil! Discover how living a life in Christ is the ultimate adventure, from answering God's call to persevering through trials and claiming the eternal crown of life. Drawing from key scriptures like James 1:12, 1 Corinthians 9:24-25, Matthew 4:18-20, and more, Dan explores the journey of faith, transformation, and heavenly rewards. Perfect for anyone seeking encouragement in Christian living, perseverance under trial, and the hidden truths of biblical adventure. Sermon keywords: Christian sermon, great adventure in faith, James 1:12 crown of life, trials and perseverance, following Jesus, eternal reward, FCC Brazil podcast.

Dive deeper into this message from February 1, 2025, where Dan shares personal stories, song lyrics from Steven Curtis Chapman, and biblical parallels to heroic quests. Whether you're new to faith or a seasoned believer, this episode reminds us that Christ calls us out of the ordinary into something extraordinary.

About FCC Brazil Podcast:

The FCC Brazil podcast brings you weekly sermons, teachings, and discussions from First Christian Church in Brazil, Indiana. Our mission is to guide people home through the gospel, fostering community and spiritual growth. Subscribe for more uplifting content on Christian faith, Bible studies, and real-life applications of Scripture.

Follow us on social media: @fccbrazil

Contact us: [email protected]

More episodes: Check out our playlist on YouTube for past sermons and events.

Support our ministry: Visit our website for ways to get involved or donate.

#ChristianSermon #GreatAdventure #James112 #FaithJourney #CrownOfLife #Perseverance #FCCBrazil

Join Senior Minister Chris Gregg in part 2 of the "Forward with Joy" series as he dives into Philippians 1:12-18, uncovering the hidden truth about lasting joy and the advance of the gospel in unexpected circumstances. Discover how Paul's imprisonment fueled boldness, unity, and rejoicing, offering clarity for your new year priorities. Keywords: Philippians joy, gospel advance, lasting joy, biblical truth, new year reflection, Christian sermon, faith in trials.

In this episode of the FCC Brazil podcast, Chris explores how God uses obstacles for progress, imperfect people for His mission, and sovereign work for intentional joy. Whether facing restrictions or rivalries, center your life on what matters most—the proclamation of Christ.

*New to FCC Brazil? We're a vibrant community in Brazil, Indiana, dedicated to growing faith through biblical teaching, worship, and fellowship.

*Subscribe for weekly sermons, Bible studies, and inspiration to live with joy and purpose.

*Follow us on social media: @fccbrazil on all platforms.

*Contact us: [email protected] for questions, prayer requests, or to get involved.

Video Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction to Lasting Joy

02:15 - God's Use of Circumstances (Philippians 1:12-14)

08:30 - Gospel Over Motives (Philippians 1:15-17)

14:45 - Choosing Joy in Truth (Philippians 1:18)

20:10 - New Year Application and Prayer

Special thanks to our production team and Senior Minister Chris Gregg for this insightful message.

Join Senior Minister Chris Gregg in part 1 of the Forward with Joy sermon series: Joy that Lasts. Dive into Philippians 1:3-6 as we explore New Year hope, lasting joy, gratitude vs. nostalgia, God's faithful work, and confidence in uncertain futures. This FCC Brazil podcast episode unpacks how real joy anchors in trusting God, not resolutions or stability—perfect for Christian inspiration, Bible study, and spiritual growth in 2026.

In this powerful message from Philippians 1, Chris Gregg shows how Paul's words offer lifelong confidence: "He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion." Discover the difference between worshipful gratitude and clinging to the past, the power of gospel partnership (koinonia), and why control kills joy. Whether facing new seasons or reflecting on the old, learn to trust God's initiation and completion for true New Year hope.

Key Themes: Joy that lasts, Philippians 1 sermon, New Year Christian message, God's faithfulness, Bible hope for future.

Series: Forward with Joy—exploring the book of Philippians for enduring spiritual joy.

Speaker: Chris Gregg, Senior Minister at First Christian Church Brazil.

Subscribe to the FCC Brazil podcast for more uplifting sermons, Bible teachings, and Christian community insights. Follow us on social media @fccbrazil for updates, events, and encouragement. Contact us at [email protected] for questions or to get involved. Let's move forward with joy together! #Philippians1 #NewYearHope #ChristianJoy #BibleSermon #FCCBrazil