What defines your worth? Is it achievements, wealth, status, influence, or how you compare to others? In this piercing exploration of Luke 18, we confront the universal human tendency to measure ourselves against others and trust in worldly securities rather than God's grace.

Through three powerful encounters, Jesus systematically dismantles conventional wisdom about success and righteousness. First, we witness the shocking contrast between a proud Pharisee and a humble tax collector, where Jesus declares it's not the religious achiever but the broken sinner who goes home justified. Next, when children approach Jesus, he doesn't just tolerate their presence but holds them up as models of the faith we should emulate. Finally, a wealthy, moral man walks away from eternal life because he cannot surrender what he trusts in most.

These aren't just ancient stories—they're mirrors reflecting our own struggles with self-righteousness, independence, and misplaced security. Many of us still wrestle with the same core issues: Do we find our identity in what we do? Do we resist childlike dependence on God? What are we holding onto that keeps us from fully embracing God's kingdom?

The invitation Jesus offers remains revolutionary: let go of what you're clinging to, and you'll find not emptiness but freedom. When we stop striving to prove ourselves, we discover peace that circumstances can't shake. When we loosen our grip on material things, we experience contentment that achievements can't provide. The paradox of faith is that surrender leads not to loss but to gain—freedom from having to prove yourself, rest from chasing what will never satisfy, and joy from living for something eternal.

Ready to experience a life that truly matters? It begins with a simple yet profound question: What needs to fall away so you can fully trust God?

Support the show

If you enjoyed this episode, consider subscribing to Madison Church on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback means the world to us, so please take a moment to leave a review and share the podcast with your friends and family.

For inquiries, suggestions, or collaboration opportunities, please reach out to us at [email protected].

For the latest updates and behind-the-scenes content, follow us on social media:

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New episodes are released every Monday, so mark your calendars and join us weekly!

If you'd like to support the show, you can make a donation here. Your generosity helps us continue to bring you meaningful content.

This podcast is intended for general informational purposes only. The views expressed by the hosts or guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Madison Church. Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk. For detailed information regarding our terms of use and privacy policy, please visit our website.

Thank you for being part of the Madison Church community! We appreciate your support.

Pastor Stephen Feith takes us on a profound journey through three powerful narratives from Luke's gospel that reveal what authentic faith looks like in daily life. Beginning with the story of ten lepers healed by Jesus, we discover that while all ten received physical transformation, only one—a Samaritan—returned to express gratitude. This singular act transformed his experience from mere physical healing to complete salvation. The stark contrast challenges us to examine how we respond to God's work in our lives: do we walk away with the blessing, or do we return to worship the giver?

The sermon explores the tension between the "already" and "not yet" nature of God's kingdom. When questioned by religious leaders expecting political dominance, Jesus makes the radical claim that "the kingdom of God is already among you." This statement reframes our understanding of how God's reign manifests—not primarily through visible power structures but through transformed hearts. While we await Christ's unmistakable return, we're called to represent that kingdom now through how we prioritize our lives and engage with the world around us.

Through the parable of the persistent widow, Feith addresses one of faith's greatest challenges: continuing to trust when prayers seem unanswered. Unlike the unjust judge who relented from annoyance, God's timing serves perfect purposes. The delay isn't negligence but divine wisdom. Jesus concludes with a haunting question that resonates through centuries: "When the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?" This isn't questioning whether God will act but whether we will remain faithful while we wait.

The message culminates in a vision of what Madison Church could become—a community marked by recognition of God as the source of all blessing, readiness for Christ's return even amid life's distractions, and persistence in prayer regardless of apparent outcomes. Imagine a church that radiates gratitude in an ungrateful world, walks with expectation amid cynicism, and prays with relentless trust when others have given up. Such a community wouldn't just experience personal transformation but would transform its city and beyond for Christ's kingdom.

Support the show

If you enjoyed this episode, consider subscribing to Madison Church on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback means the world to us, so please take a moment to leave a review and share the podcast with your friends and family.

For inquiries, suggestions, or collaboration opportunities, please reach out to us at [email protected].

For the latest updates and behind-the-scenes content, follow us on social media:

• Facebook
• Instagram
• YouTube

New episodes are released every Monday, so mark your calendars and join us weekly!

If you'd like to support the show, you can make a donation here. Your generosity helps us continue to bring you meaningful content.

This podcast is intended for general informational purposes only. The views expressed by the hosts or guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Madison Church. Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk. For detailed information regarding our terms of use and privacy policy, please visit our website.

Thank you for being part of the Madison Church community! We appreciate your support.

As life often overwhelms us with responsibilities, we must ask ourselves: what are we clinging to? This episode explores our tendency to overcommit and carry too many burdens and challenges us to reflect on what truly matters, especially as we enter the season of Lent. Our pastor shares a personal story that resonates with many, highlighting the struggle between fulfilling our obligations and making room for God.

Through biblical teachings, we examine how our lives can become overloaded, including the dangers of temptation and the critical need for forgiveness. Jesus calls us to forgive not only once but continuously, thereby emphasizing the profound nature of grace in our lives. Listeners will be invited to assess whether their actions draw others closer to God or push them away, a vital aspect of our faith that extends beyond personal belief to influence community dynamics.

By embracing the attitudes of service and reflection, we are encouraged to shift our mindset from entitlement to gratitude for God’s grace. Discover how even the smallest faith can have extraordinary effects, challenging us to root out deep-seated bitterness and discomfort. You won't want to miss this transformative dialogue that asks not only what we need to release but also how we can truly embrace a life of faith. Tune in, reflect, and engage with us as we navigate the journey of letting go to grow more deeply in our spiritual walk. Don't forget to subscribe and share your thoughts!

Support the show

If you enjoyed this episode, consider subscribing to Madison Church on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback means the world to us, so please take a moment to leave a review and share the podcast with your friends and family.

For inquiries, suggestions, or collaboration opportunities, please reach out to us at [email protected].

For the latest updates and behind-the-scenes content, follow us on social media:

• Facebook
• Instagram
• YouTube

New episodes are released every Monday, so mark your calendars and join us weekly!

If you'd like to support the show, you can make a donation here. Your generosity helps us continue to bring you meaningful content.

This podcast is intended for general informational purposes only. The views expressed by the hosts or guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Madison Church. Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk. For detailed information regarding our terms of use and privacy policy, please visit our website.

Thank you for being part of the Madison Church community! We appreciate your support.

Prepare to embark on a transformative journey in our latest episode, where we unravel the profound teachings found in Luke 16. Starting with a pressing question—what would you do if you had only 24 hours left to live?—the discussion leads us to a greater understanding of how time constraints can reveal our true priorities. This episode offers rich insights into the relationship between wealth and stewardship, urging us to consider how we manage the resources we've been blessed with.

Listen as we dissect the Parable of the Shrewd Manager, a tale that’s not about dishonesty, but rather astute decision-making in urgent times. We explore the notion that the world often serves wealth more wisely than believers, encouraging each of us to be shrewd in utilizing our funds for eternal impacts. Contrast this with the harrowing story of Lazarus and the rich man, which serves as both a warning and a call to action about our responsibility to respond to the needs around us.

Join the conversation about the value of developing a generous heart that prioritizes others over personal gain. Are you budgeting for justice? Are you living with eternity in mind? This episode will challenge you in a meaningful way, prompting a re-evaluation of what it truly means to be a steward of the things we have in life. Don’t miss the chance to rethink your financial decisions and take steps toward embodying generosity. Tune in now, and help us build a community that reflects the heart of God through responsible stewardship. Share your thoughts, engage with us, and let’s explore how we can collectively make a lasting difference.

Support the show

If you enjoyed this episode, consider subscribing to Madison Church on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback means the world to us, so please take a moment to leave a review and share the podcast with your friends and family.

For inquiries, suggestions, or collaboration opportunities, please reach out to us at [email protected].

For the latest updates and behind-the-scenes content, follow us on social media:

• Facebook
• Instagram
• YouTube

New episodes are released every Monday, so mark your calendars and join us weekly!

If you'd like to support the show, you can make a donation here. Your generosity helps us continue to bring you meaningful content.

This podcast is intended for general informational purposes only. The views expressed by the hosts or guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Madison Church. Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk. For detailed information regarding our terms of use and privacy policy, please visit our website.

Thank you for being part of the Madison Church community! We appreciate your support.

What happens when you check your bank account and wonder where all the money went? Join me, Stephen Feith, on a journey through life's losses as we explore not just financial dilemmas but the deeper losses we all face. From lost pets to missing people, I reflect on how these universal experiences mirror God's longing for those who are far from him. Together, we traverse the Gospel of Luke, particularly the poignant teachings in chapter 15, where Jesus reshapes our understanding of purpose. We revisit the timeless parable of the prodigal son, unraveling its rich themes of grace, forgiveness, and restoration, and how they challenge our perceptions of divine love and human relationships.

Reflect upon my own path in founding Madison Church, where the humble beginnings included working at a Hy-Vee grocery store in Springfield, Missouri. As Megan and I journeyed across the Midwest sharing our dream of a new church community, we met both skeptics and supporters. Those supporters have been pivotal in our growth over the last decade. Embrace the call to be a community that mirrors heaven's joy, extending grace and inclusivity to everyone, whether they're returning home or arriving for the first time. Let's build a church that actively seeks and celebrates those seeking belonging, just as the father did with his returning son.

Support the show

If you enjoyed this episode, consider subscribing to Madison Church on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback means the world to us, so please take a moment to leave a review and share the podcast with your friends and family.

For inquiries, suggestions, or collaboration opportunities, please reach out to us at [email protected].

For the latest updates and behind-the-scenes content, follow us on social media:

• Facebook
• Instagram
• YouTube

New episodes are released every Monday, so mark your calendars and join us weekly!

If you'd like to support the show, you can make a donation here. Your generosity helps us continue to bring you meaningful content.

This podcast is intended for general informational purposes only. The views expressed by the hosts or guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Madison Church. Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk. For detailed information regarding our terms of use and privacy policy, please visit our website.

Thank you for being part of the Madison Church community! We appreciate your support.

What does it truly mean to follow Jesus? Brace yourself for an eye-opening exploration as we tackle the challenging teachings from Luke 14:25-35, where the call to discipleship is presented with stark realities. We confront the controversial notion of "hating" one's family and giving up possessions, diving into the heart of these teachings to uncover their true intent. Often misunderstood and misused, these passages call us to prioritize our commitment to Jesus above all else, especially as Lent approaches. This episode invites you to reflect on the depth of your personal relationship with Christ and challenges the notion of blind allegiance to religious institutions.

Join us on a journey through the Gospel of Luke as we delve into Jesus' mission, shattering expectations of political uprising, and redefining the essence of true discipleship. Through the experiences of biblical figures like Peter and the rich young ruler, we see the grace that Jesus extends even amid our failures. The metaphors of a builder and a king illustrate the need for total reliance on divine grace. We challenge you to introspect and identify areas where you've held back from God, embracing a life of love and commitment supported by his grace. This episode is a call to fully engage in the transformative journey of following Christ.

Support the show

If you enjoyed this episode, consider subscribing to Madison Church on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback means the world to us, so please take a moment to leave a review and share the podcast with your friends and family.

For inquiries, suggestions, or collaboration opportunities, please reach out to us at [email protected].

For the latest updates and behind-the-scenes content, follow us on social media:

• Facebook
• Instagram
• YouTube

New episodes are released every Monday, so mark your calendars and join us weekly!

If you'd like to support the show, you can make a donation here. Your generosity helps us continue to bring you meaningful content.

This podcast is intended for general informational purposes only. The views expressed by the hosts or guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Madison Church. Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk. For detailed information regarding our terms of use and privacy policy, please visit our website.

Thank you for being part of the Madison Church community! We appreciate your support.

What if the kingdom of God isn't just a distant hope, but a vibrant reality unfolding right now? Inspired by theologian N.T. Wright, we explore this transformative concept, challenging the notion of an untouchable heaven by highlighting how Jesus's work reveals an overlap between heaven and earth. Through the lens of the Gospel of Luke, we grapple with the cost of discipleship and the unsettling but urgent message of division that Jesus offers. It's a call to disrupt our complacency and embrace the profound changes that true surrender to Jesus demands.

The radical inclusivity of God's kingdom takes center stage as we reflect on Jesus's parables, particularly the great banquet in Luke 14. Here, we uncover the dangers of misplaced priorities and passive indifference that can lead us away from the divine invitation. The teachings of Jesus remain ever relevant, pushing us to live authentically and inspire others, not through force but through genuine actions. We explore the idea that living a faith-centered life should transcend Sunday services, affecting every corner of our existence. As we discuss the transformative power of committing to Jesus, we invite you to experience and extend the kingdom of God in daily life, offering a foretaste of the glorious world to come.

Support the show

If you enjoyed this episode, consider subscribing to Madison Church on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback means the world to us, so please take a moment to leave a review and share the podcast with your friends and family.

For inquiries, suggestions, or collaboration opportunities, please reach out to us at [email protected].

For the latest updates and behind-the-scenes content, follow us on social media:

• Facebook
• Instagram
• YouTube

New episodes are released every Monday, so mark your calendars and join us weekly!

If you'd like to support the show, you can make a donation here. Your generosity helps us continue to bring you meaningful content.

This podcast is intended for general informational purposes only. The views expressed by the hosts or guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Madison Church. Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk. For detailed information regarding our terms of use and privacy policy, please visit our website.

Thank you for being part of the Madison Church community! We appreciate your support.

Imagine a world where baking sourdough becomes a profound metaphor for spiritual introspection. That's exactly what we explore as we reminisce about our sourdough-filled adventures, from crafting loaves of bread to unexpected creations like chocolate cake. These culinary experiments become a lens through which we examine deeper truths, inspired by Jesus’ caution against the "yeast of the Pharisees" in Luke 12:1. We discuss how this yeast-like influence parallels the subtle shifts in our attitudes and actions, urging a reflection on the importance of authenticity and integrity amidst life's bustling distractions.

In a heartfelt exploration of vulnerability, we challenge the facade of composure that so many of us hide behind. The power of radical honesty is laid bare as we share personal tales of chaos and struggle, finding solace in God’s unwavering presence. This episode encourages living for divine approval rather than societal acceptance, emphasizing the comfort found in trusting God over the opinions of others. As we confront everyday fears and the potential misunderstanding of our faith, we draw strength from acknowledging God’s love and care, learning to live with boldness and courage. Join us as we unravel the profound reassurance that comes from aligning our worth and accountability with a higher power.

Support the show

If you enjoyed this episode, consider subscribing to Madison Church on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback means the world to us, so please take a moment to leave a review and share the podcast with your friends and family.

For inquiries, suggestions, or collaboration opportunities, please reach out to us at [email protected].

For the latest updates and behind-the-scenes content, follow us on social media:

• Facebook
• Instagram
• YouTube

New episodes are released every Monday, so mark your calendars and join us weekly!

If you'd like to support the show, you can make a donation here. Your generosity helps us continue to bring you meaningful content.

This podcast is intended for general informational purposes only. The views expressed by the hosts or guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Madison Church. Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk. For detailed information regarding our terms of use and privacy policy, please visit our website.

Thank you for being part of the Madison Church community! We appreciate your support.

Ever wondered what it truly means to follow Jesus wholeheartedly? Dive deep into the essence of authentic discipleship in this transformative episode. We promise you'll explore the profound journey of aligning your internal values with your external actions, illuminated by the teachings of Jesus in Luke 11. Join us as we tackle the struggles of divided loyalties, spiritual blindness, and the masks that hide our inner battles, all while discovering the power of living in God's truth.

This episode goes beyond superficial understandings, challenging us to examine the importance of genuine faith and inner transformation. Using Jesus' metaphor of a lamp, we unravel how God's truth can act as a guiding light, steering us away from cultural or personal darkness. We also scrutinize Jesus' critique of the Pharisees, using the powerful imagery of a clean cup on the outside but dirty on the inside, to remind us of the necessity for inner reform over mere ritualistic observance.

Discover how these teachings can be brought to life within our communities and personal lives. We focus on the Madison Church community's mission to create a safe haven for sharing struggles and fostering grace-filled accountability. Leaders like Stephen set an example through vulnerability and acceptance, inspiring a collective commitment to encouragement and support. This episode calls on each of us to contribute to a transformative community, praying for our shared journey towards realizing the kingdom of God.

Support the show

If you enjoyed this episode, consider subscribing to Madison Church on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback means the world to us, so please take a moment to leave a review and share the podcast with your friends and family.

For inquiries, suggestions, or collaboration opportunities, please reach out to us at [email protected].

For the latest updates and behind-the-scenes content, follow us on social media:

• Facebook
• Instagram
• YouTube

New episodes are released every Monday, so mark your calendars and join us weekly!

If you'd like to support the show, you can make a donation here. Your generosity helps us continue to bring you meaningful content.

This podcast is intended for general informational purposes only. The views expressed by the hosts or guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Madison Church. Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk. For detailed information regarding our terms of use and privacy policy, please visit our website.

Thank you for being part of the Madison Church community! We appreciate your support.

What does it truly mean to live a life that matters? Uncover transformative insights from Luke's gospel as we navigate the profound journey of discipleship. We're not just talking about gaining knowledge or adhering to rituals; we're exploring a life reshaped by love, prayer, and relationships. This episode promises to challenge your understanding of what it means to follow Jesus, as we unpack four compelling stories that each offer a unique perspective on spiritual growth and transformation.

As we explore the interconnected nature of discipleship, we delve into the parable of the Good Samaritan and the conversation between Jesus and a religious law expert from Luke chapter 10. The dialogue probes deep questions about love, compassion, and what it means to inherit eternal life, breaking down cultural barriers and urging us to redefine our concept of 'neighbor.' We also highlight the importance of persistent prayer, advocating for a balance between rest and work, and teaching the audacity of approaching God with the openness of a child.

This episode is a call to action, inviting you to integrate prayer into your daily life as a relationship-building tool with God. Through personal stories and practical tips, we imagine a community where acts of love and kindness are not the exception but the norm. Reflect on your spiritual journey as we encourage you to take a step this week—whether through compassionate action, dedicated prayer, or another form of spiritual engagement—and witness the ripple effect of your discipleship in the world.

Support the show

If you enjoyed this episode, consider subscribing to Madison Church on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback means the world to us, so please take a moment to leave a review and share the podcast with your friends and family.

For inquiries, suggestions, or collaboration opportunities, please reach out to us at [email protected].

For the latest updates and behind-the-scenes content, follow us on social media:

• Facebook
• Instagram
• YouTube

New episodes are released every Monday, so mark your calendars and join us weekly!

If you'd like to support the show, you can make a donation here. Your generosity helps us continue to bring you meaningful content.

This podcast is intended for general informational purposes only. The views expressed by the hosts or guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Madison Church. Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk. For detailed information regarding our terms of use and privacy policy, please visit our website.

Thank you for being part of the Madison Church community! We appreciate your support.