"Growing In Grace" - a Podcast of Gracehills Church

Episode 44: Living the Upside Down Kingdom

In this episode of Growing in Grace, Pastor Brandon and Matt kick off a brand-new series in Matthew 5–7, the Sermon on the Mount. Jesus flips the world's definition of blessing upside down — calling His followers to be poor in spirit, to mourn over sin, to walk humbly, and to hunger and thirst for righteousness.

Together, Brandon and Matt unpack how these countercultural attitudes apply to everyday life in a world that constantly chases status, comfort, and self. If you've ever wondered what it really means to live differently as part of God's kingdom, this conversation will challenge you to take a practical next step this week.

In this episode of Growing in Grace, Pastor Brandon and Matt continue unpacking the framework of the early church — Gather, Grow, Go, and Give. Together they highlight how gathering with God's people is more than routine, why real discipleship happens as we grow through small groups, what it looks like to go boldly into our community with the gospel, and how giving our time, talent, and treasure fuels the mission.

This conversation is both practical and challenging, reminding us that church isn't just something we attend — it's a movement we get to be part of. If you've been wondering how to take your next step of faith, this episode will encourage you to live it out in everyday life.

Unstoppable Gospel: Storms, Snake Bites, and Serving in Hardship

In this final chapter of Acts, Paul survives a shipwreck, endures a snake bite, and still presses on to serve others and proclaim Christ. In this episode of Growing in Grace, Matt and Pastor Brandon unpack how God uses unexpected kindness, the strength of community, and even seasons of suffering to advance the gospel. Together, they explore why Christians often slip into a "karma mindset," why serving in hardship shifts our perspective, and why biblical community is essential when life gets heavy. The reminder is clear: our circumstances don't get the last word—Jesus does.

Episode 41: Finding Faith in Rough Seas

In this episode of Growing in Grace, Pastor Brandon and Matt unpack Acts 27—the story of Paul's storm-tossed voyage to Rome. What starts as a warning ignored quickly becomes a full-blown crisis: a hurricane-like storm, a ship on the verge of breaking apart, and a crew who has lost all hope. Yet right in the middle of the chaos, Paul stands up and points everyone back to God's promise: the ship may be lost, but every life will be spared.

Together, Matt and Pastor Brandon explore how this account isn't just about ancient sailors—it's about us. They discuss the voices we listen to in hard times, the temptation to lose hope, and the call to shift our focus from circumstances to Christ. Along the way, they share personal stories, practical encouragement, and a reminder that even in life's fiercest storms, God is sovereign, faithful, and present.

Whether you're coasting through calm waters or feel like you're barely holding on, this episode will encourage you to cling to God's Word, care for your soul and body, and give thanks even in the storm—because Jesus has already won the victory.

Episode 40 – Purpose in the Pause Stuck. Delayed. Forgotten. That's how Paul's two years in prison could have felt—but instead, he saw every moment as an opportunity for the gospel. In Acts 25–26, Paul turns trials into testimonies before kings and governors. In this episode, Pastor Brandon and Matt challenge you to see your waiting seasons as God's preparation for something greater.

Episode 39 – Boldness in a Culture of Compromise In this episode of Growing in Grace, Pastor Brandon and Matt dig into Acts 24, where Paul boldly defends the gospel in front of Governor Felix. In a culture quick to blur theological truth with political controversy, Paul's unwavering stance on righteousness, self-control, and judgment challenges us to live with gospel integrity—no matter the cost.

From real-life stories of standing firm in faith to confronting comparison, cultural pressure, and spiritual compromise, this conversation explores what it truly means to live as justified and secure followers of Christ. How does our eternal confidence change our everyday courage? What keeps people stuck between conviction and commitment? And how can the Church reclaim boldness with compassion?

Whether you're navigating hard conversations, seeking greater courage, or wondering how to live out your faith when it's unpopular—this episode is for you.

Episode 38: When Suffering Is a Catalyst

In this episode of Growing in Grace, Pastor Brandon walks us through Acts 23 and Paul's powerful example of obedience and endurance under pressure. We discuss what it means to suffer with Jesus, not just for Him, and how pain can become a catalyst for spiritual growth and gospel impact. Whether you're in a season of comfort or hardship, this conversation challenges us to ask: Is Jesus truly enough when everything else is stripped away? Pastor Brandon also opens up about the personal cost of obedience, taking responsibility for sin, and how to lead with repentance over self-protection. This is a deep dive into discipleship, character, and the unshakeable hope we have in Christ.

Episode 37: All Things to All People – Living the Gospel Above Preferences

In this episode of Growing in Grace, Matt and Pastor Brandon reflect on Paul's visit to Jerusalem in Acts 21, where he chooses to lay down his preferences in order to build bridges—not barriers—for the sake of the gospel. Though Paul was free in Christ, he willingly participated in Jewish purification rituals to preserve unity and maintain a platform with those he sought to reach.

Together, they explore:

• The difference between compromising truth and contextualizing the gospel

• How to navigate church traditions and personal convictions with grace

• Why unity in the church requires humility, forgiveness, and discernment

• Practical ways to cross cultural, racial, and generational lines in love

• How "becoming all things to all people" impacts outreach, events, and everyday relationships

If you've ever wrestled with when to stand firm and when to flex, this episode will challenge you to put the mission above your comfort and see people through the lens of grace.

Tune in and be encouraged to live a faith that lays down preference to pick up purpose.

Episode 36: Your Yes on the Table – Trusting God When Obedience Costs You

In this episode of Growing in Grace, Matt and Pastor Brandon dive into Acts 21 and the powerful example of Paul's obedience—even when following God's will meant walking straight into suffering. Despite warnings from well-meaning friends and the certainty of hardship ahead, Paul chose surrender over safety.

Together, they explore:

• Why God's will often leads us into challenge, not comfort

• How to discern His voice when others disagree

• What "putting your yes on the table" looks like in everyday life

• The dangers of comfort-driven Christianity

• How the church can support bold, obedient callings—even when they're hard to understand

If you've ever hesitated to follow God because it felt unclear, risky, or unpopular, this conversation will encourage you to trust His heart, even when you can't see His plan.

Tune in and be challenged to say yes to God—before you even know the question.

Episode 35: Shepherd the Flock – Leading with Conviction and Compassion

In this episode of Growing in Grace, Matt and Pastor Brandon unpack Paul's heartfelt farewell to the Ephesian elders in Acts 20:26–38. In it, Paul outlines five qualities of faithful church leadership: proclaiming the truth, protecting the flock, prioritizing God's Word, practicing selfless service, and forming deep personal bonds.

But this isn't just a message for pastors and elders. It's a challenge for every believer to live with integrity, intentionality, and purpose in the body of Christ. Together, Matt and Brandon explore how to guard your heart, speak truth in love, disciple across generations, and stay rooted in biblical community—especially when life feels overwhelming or culture pushes back.

If you've ever wrestled with leadership, parenting, church hurt, or your own spiritual calling, this episode will ground you in grace and point you toward faithfulness.

Tune in and be reminded: shepherding isn't just for pastors—it's a calling for all of us who follow the Good Shepherd.