In week two of Easier Said Than Done, we're challenged to rethink our understanding of perfection and wholeness in our spiritual lives. Jesus' teachings on turning the other cheek and going the extra mile aren't just about passive endurance, but about creatively resisting evil and breaking cycles of violence. We're reminded that God's grace shines on both the righteous and unrighteous, calling us to extend that same indiscriminate mercy to others. This message invites us to move beyond mere justice to embrace a transformative generosity that permeates every aspect of our lives. As we reflect on these teachings, we're encouraged to step out of hiding and into the full light of God's grace, recognizing that He desires our wholeness more than our flawless performance.

God delivers from bondage, but lasting freedom demands we stand firm. When we don’t learn to stand firm, all progress is temporary and sin, shame, and anxiety keep us cycling. In week one of "Easier Said Than Done," Pastor Jordan encourages us to reject the victim mentality, focus our attention, and trust God completely to bring us into lasting freedom.

Special guest Pastor Andrew Gard from Grace City church challenges us to go deeper than just admiring God. It's not about our admiration; it's about our worship. This profound insight reminds us that we become like what we worship, not necessarily what we admire. The call to deny ourselves echoes Jesus' words in the Gospels, urging us to take up our cross and follow Him. This self-denial isn't about self-deprecation, but rather about aligning our hearts with God's will. As we reflect on this, we're invited to examine our lives and ask: Who or what are we truly worshiping? Are we allowing our admiration for Jesus to transform into genuine worship that shapes our character and actions?

In this powerful exploration of the Lord's Prayer from Pastor Alex Seeley, we're challenged to reconsider our understanding of temptation and God's role in our spiritual growth. The focus is on Matthew 6:13, 'Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.' We learn that God doesn't tempt us, but He does test us to prove and improve our character. The enemy, however, seeks to turn these tests into temptations. This insight transforms how we view challenges in our lives - not as attacks, but as opportunities for spiritual growth and increased authority. We're reminded of the importance of knowing God's Word and making conscious choices to obey Him, just as Jesus did when tempted in the wilderness. This message encourages us to trust in God's goodness and to see our struggles as refining processes, ultimately leading us to a stronger, more mature faith.

Is your work a necessary evil or a holy calling? Nehemiah teaches us that the path to greatness is paved with hard work. Between a good work and a great work lies hard work. And it's in those moments that God strengthens our hands.

Multiplication is God's design, seen throughout Scripture – think loaves and fishes, the early church! But the enemy? He loves division. So where there's growth, there's a target on unity and offense is the enemy's weapon of choice.

In week three of our Builders series, Pastor Jordan unpacks the importance of working together in unity, focusing on what’s in front of us, and working through conflict.

In the second week of our Builders series, Pastor Jordan explores how to navigate the criticism and opposition that arises when we step out to do something meaningful. As Nehemiah and his people begin rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem, they face immediate resistance from neighboring nations. Through their experience, we uncover five key ways to recognize criticism driven by opposition and learn how to respond with resilience, continuing to do the work God has called us to.

A builder’s mindset is necessary to make any vision a reality. Whether it’s a vision for our vocation, marriage, education or finances, we have to recognize that often God gives us the materials to build and the responsibility to work.

In week one of our Builders series, Pastor Jordan uses the story of Nehemiah to highlight the mentality of a builder.

Than Graffam from Hope Project International reminds us that what we do to “the least of these” is done unto the Lord.

In the final message in our 'First Things First' series, Pastor Jordan explores the often-misunderstood practice of intercessory prayer. Contrary to popular belief, this isn't some mystical or complicated endeavor. It's simply the act of praying for others – the most natural and impactful form of prayer we can offer.

In this message, you'll discover:

• Why intercessory prayer is crucial for every believer

• How to overcome common misconceptions about intercession

• Four key characteristics of effective intercessory prayer

• Practical steps to become a more powerful intercessor

Listen to this message and join us in person every Sunday at 9am and 10:45am at 2100 Main Street in Sarasota, Florida.