Have you ever felt unprepared or unequipped for what God is calling you to? In this week's sermon, Pastor Abbie Sawczak explores how Jesus invited his disciples to participate in his mission, even when they felt unready. Through the story of Jesus feeding the 5,000 in Matthew 14, we're reminded that God can use our humble offerings to do miraculous things. Pastor Abbie encourages us to surrender what little we have - our time, talents, and resources - into God's hands. When we let go and participate in God's work, little becomes much. Listen to be reminded of God's power to multiply our small acts of service and generosity.

In this week's sermon, Pastor Abbie Sawczak reminds us that as followers of Jesus, we have everything we need in Christ. Yet at the same time, there is still more available to us through the power of the Holy Spirit. She encourages us to make space in our lives to receive more of God's presence, sharing stories of how God wants to leave us with His peace, joy, and the gifts of the Spirit. Let's reflect on how we can grow in greater intimacy with Jesus, opening our hearts to all He wants to impart in our lives.

Jesus invited people to the table and then urged them to live consecrated lives. The call to follow Jesus is a call to live a life that is set apart and fully devoted to Him. This means living differently, in a way that makes room for Jesus and makes way for His mission. Consecration is about putting Jesus before ourselves.

The Call of Christ is to live a consecrated life, urging us to live set apart and fully devoted. The sermon encourages consecration over comfort, compromise, and complacency. It calls for consecration for the sake of our city and Christ's mission. Practical ways to set apart and devote oneself include a daily rhythm of Bible study, prayer, and self-examination.

Hey New Culture Church podcast listeners! This week, we've got some insights that might just make you see everyday situations a bit differently. Ever made a cooking mistake that turned out to be a memorable lesson? That's where Pastor Abbie kicks things off with her mac and cheese story.

We often judge things by their appearance, but sometimes, it's the substance that matters. Just like that deceivingly good-looking mac and cheese, life can throw us similar curveballs.

Jumping into Luke chapter 14, we see a familiar scene: Jesus at a gathering, and there's a subtle race to get the best seats. It's a snapshot of how we sometimes seek validation. But Jesus, with his unique perspective, challenges this notion and makes us question: What really defines value?

Another highlight? Jesus healing when it was unconventional. A reminder that sometimes, it's essential to prioritize compassion over tradition.

SO WHAT: The Table Gathers, Unites & Empowers

Thanks for joining us this week. See you next week!

Looking for spiritual nourishment and a deeper understanding of your faith journey? Join Pastor Abbie Sawczak in this special Vision Sunday at New Culture Church, where she unpacks the vision of fostering a Christ-like culture right here in Madison. Discover the profound impact of simply being with Jesus, becoming like Him, and following in His footsteps to change the world around you.

You're not just a passive listener; you're an integral part of this divine mission. Pastor Abbie shares invaluable wisdom on stepping out of your comfort zone and becoming a disciple wherever you are. With upcoming community events and an open invitation for you to contribute, this episode is your call to action. Come for the scripture-based teachings, stay for the worship and prayer, and leave inspired to become an ambassador for Christ in your own unique way.

Join us as we welcome Pastor Dre as he delivers an empowering message that combines lessons learned from the early days of church planting, the wisdom of Paul, and the profound teachings of Hebrews 10. Explore how 'place' profoundly influences our spiritual journey and the peace that a life centered in Christ can offer. This sermon is a rallying call to push forward in your walk with Jesus, no matter the obstacles. Don't miss this uplifting message that will inspire you to rethink your path and move boldly forward with Christ.

Hey there, New Culture Church podcast family! We're back with an enlightening sermon that takes us through the themes of hospitality, faithfulness, love, and the enduring light of Jesus. Can you feel the inspiration and comfort in these teachings?

Let's explore hospitality. Pastor Abbie's sermon paints a vivid picture, comparing our willingness to welcome strangers to ho Jesus made people feel safe and seen. It's more than just hosting friends; it's about loving and welcoming those we've never met before. A profound lesson.

Have you ever considered how faithfulness mirrors the everlasting light of Jesus? Today's message emphasizes the importance of consistency and trust in all aspects of our lives. It's not about being different people in different places; it's about being faithful, just like Jesus.

As the sermon unfolds, we delve into the love and action of key biblical figures like Gaius and how their faithfulness and hospitality resonate with Jesus's teachings. Their examples inspire us to be the best versions of ourselves, loving and welcoming others unconditionally.

The reflections on reputation, personal change, and surrendering to the Lord are especially powerful. Through prayers and music, we're invited to examine our lives and seek ways to live in love and faithfulness. The promise of God's presence reassures us that change is possible, both here and now.

The sermon closes with an invitation to worship and trust in the transforming power of God's presence. We are reminded that we are children of promise and great inheritance, and we celebrate that truth today.

Thank you for tuning in, dear listeners. Here's to embracing God's love, growing in faith, and being inspired by the teachings of New Culture Church. Stay blessed, and may your hearts always be open to the lessons and love of Christ.

Hey there, New Culture Church podcast family! Pastor Nermalis Vera is back with another amazing sermon, diving deep into the themes of love, obedience, faith, and the wonders of God's completed work. Can you feel the warmth and wisdom she brings to these topics?

Let's start with obedience. Pastor Nermalis paints a picture that compares our obedience to God with the trust we had in our parents growing up. Sounds simple, doesn't it? But there's a profound truth hidden in there, and she helps us to unravel it.

Have you ever wondered about the connection between faith, love, and obedience? Our dear Pastor Nermalis leads us down that path, emphasizing the importance of total commitment in our relationship with God. It's not just about believing; it's about living that belief in every aspect of our lives.

As the sermon progresses, Pastor Nermalis takes us on a journey of love's victory through faith. Her conviction about our calling to act with love, obedience, and faith in our communities resonates deeply, doesn't it? There's wisdom in her words, and they inspire us to be the best we can be.

I found her reflections on testimony and witness especially powerful. Pastor Nermalis quotes C.S. Lewis and asserts that faith in Jesus is the victory. Her message reassures us that God's love is a promise, not just for eternity but also here and now.

The sermon closes with a personal sharing from Pastor Nermalis about her recent decision to move on from her role as an associate pastor. Her trust in God shines through, just like the teachings she's shared with us. She leaves us with scriptures that remind us of God's eternal nature.

Thank you for tuning in, dear listeners. Here's to embracing God's love, growing in faith, and always being inspired by Pastor Nermalis Vera's teachings. Stay blessed, and may your words always be filled with wisdom and compassion.

Hey there, New Culture Church podcast listeners! Pastor Nermalis Vera brings us a thoughtful message this week. Are you enjoying our current sermon series on the letters from John? I hope you are, because we're diving into 1 John today.

But before we jump in, let me share a quick family anecdote. Did you know my mom was born and raised in Puerto Rico and my dad in New York City? They met, fell in love, and communicated even though my mom spoke only Spanish and my dad spoke broken Spanish. There's a funny story about a cookie in our family, and it's a reminder of how words can mean different things to different people.

So, what's the point of this story? Well, it's an intriguing way to introduce the concept of the power of words. Vocabulary, lexicon, and expression—words can build bridges or create misunderstandings. Pastor Nermalis encourages us to be mindful of our words, like her parents were, finding love and connection despite language barriers.

We're invited to reflect on the importance of words in our spiritual journey and to embrace the teachings of Jesus, becoming like Him and doing what He did. The power of words is not just about communication; it's about expressing God's love and grace.

Thanks for joining us, and here's to living a life filled with wisdom, compassion, and the right words!

Hey there, New Culture Church podcast listeners! Pastor Abbie brings us an awesome message this week. Are you ready for a fresh dive into the story of Cain and Abel? But before we jump in, let me share a quick anecdote. Did you know during the COVID-19 pandemic, I bought boxes of Ho Hos, thinking the world might end and these treats would be the last ones ever? Sounds a little silly now.

So, what's the point of this story? Well, it's a fun way to introduce the concept of scarcity mentality. Sometimes, we act out of fear that there's not enough to go around, just like I did with those Ho Hos and just like Cain did with Abel. But here's the truth: God's love, mercy, and grace are abundant and meant for all of us. There's no need for jealousy or envy.

We should be careful about the lies we let lead our lives. Are we fighting each other for God's favor? Or do we trust that His love is more than enough for everyone?

Pastor Abbie, delves into the idea of Kingdom love, a selfless love Jesus embodied. We're encouraged to live this love, putting others' needs and interests first. And guess what? This requires us to let go of the scarcity mentality and embrace God's, abundant love.

So, let's stick together, invite the Holy Spirit into our hearts, and allow His abundant love to flow through us. Thanks for joining us, and here's to living a life of Kingdom love!