New Life Petaluma

In this sermon, Pastor Shane discusses the final component of the church's vision called 'Forge,' which is a relaunch of their small groups ministry with an emphasis on service. He explains that these small groups will be geographically located and focused on spiritual formation through discipleship and serving the local community. The pastor emphasizes that following Jesus requires letting go of things that divide us and putting Jesus above everything else, including political affiliations and personal comfort.

The ministry of Jesus was characterized by kindness, compassion, and grace rather than judgment or condemnation. Through encounters with both Nicodemus, a religious elite, and a socially ostracized Samaritan woman, Jesus demonstrated that his grace extends to everyone regardless of their background or status. Romans 2 reminds us that it is God's kindness, not fear of punishment, that leads people to repentance. Jesus built his ministry team with individuals who had fundamental disagreements, showing that unity in mission transcends differences. Today, Christians are called to follow this example by approaching others with kindness that draws them toward God rather than pushing them away with condemnation.

Pastor Shane introduces our core values summarized as Be, Belong, Become, and Bless. 'Be' focuses on recognizing ourselves as image bearers of God (Genesis 1:27), our true identity beyond what we do or how others define us. 'Belong' emphasizes that everyone has a place in God's family regardless of background or beliefs. 'Become' is about growing into who God created us to be rather than changing into something we're not. Finally, 'Bless' calls us to extend God's grace to others just as we've received it.

Charis + Forge Intro

Power intimidates, but influence transforms. Jesus could have ruled with an iron fist, yet chose the path of a servant—and changed the world forever. Every day, we choose between the crown (power) and the cross (influence). Which path are you taking today? #InfluenceBafflesPower

What if the path to real influence isn't gaining power but giving it up? Jesus rejected worldly kingdoms for something greater. Are you pursuing power or influence in your relationships? Discover how dying to self daily leads to the contentment, peace and joy Jesus intended for us. #InfluenceOverPower #FaithJourney

At the core of every human being is the image of God, a truth often obscured by our prejudices and limited perspectives. While we all need salvation, it's not just about fixing what's broken, but uncovering the divine image that has always been there. Our greatest hindrance to loving others well is how we view them through our personal filters. Jesus calls us to move beyond surface judgments and see the God-likeness in everyone, even those who differ from us. By embracing this truth about ourselves and others, we can love more authentically and have the influence God desires for His church.

Jesus consistently chose influence over power in his ministry. While power focuses on control, position, and compliance, influence centers on relationships, internal motivation, and others' wellbeing. When tempted in the wilderness, Jesus rejected opportunities for self-preservation, proving his importance, and gaining worldly power. Instead, he demonstrated influence through genuine interest in others, offering unsolicited assistance, resolving conflicts, challenging conventional thinking, and exceeding expectations. As his followers, we're called to pursue influence through humility, genuine care, community engagement, and selfless service—recognizing that only influence, not power, can truly transform hearts.

When God opens a door, NO ONE can close it! But are you walking through the opportunities He's placing before you? Discover how the ancient church of Philadelphia teaches us to recognize divine open doors even when we have 'little strength.' What door is God opening in your life right now that you've been hesitant to walk through? #OpenDoors #Faith #Revelation