Rethink & Return with Jason Shepperd

This episode covers Colossians 2:16-23, exploring the ongoing attacks against our freedom in Christ, the danger of false spiritual superiority, and why religious rules cannot transform the human heart. As followers of Jesus, we must learn to recognize the difference between genuine spiritual growth and practices that only create the appearance of spirituality.

Paul warns the church not to let anyone judge them based on food, drink, religious festivals, or Sabbath days. These things were shadows of what was to come, but the reality is found in Christ. Legalism attempts to earn or maintain righteousness through our own works, while true freedom in Christ calls us to resist sin without becoming enslaved to human-made religious rules. We must be careful not to confuse freedom from legalism with approval of sin.

We also explore the danger of spiritual elitism and the pursuit of experiences that promise a deeper connection with God but ultimately distract us from Jesus. Spiritual experiences, false humility, and claims of superior knowledge do not necessarily produce spiritual maturity. Jesus is enough. His Word, His Spirit, His Church, and His work provide what we need to grow in Him.

Because we have died with Christ, we no longer belong to the elemental ways of this world. Yet rules and regulations, even those that appear wise or disciplined, cannot remake the human heart. Rules can restrain behavior, but they cannot provide the transformation we need. Real spirituality goes deeper than outward appearances and religious performance.

God is after our hearts, not simply our ability to follow rules. Lasting transformation comes through submission to the Spirit of God, allowing Him to change us from the inside out.

How do we recognize legalism? How can we guard against spiritual pride? And what does it look like to live in the freedom Jesus has given us? Join us as we return to the absolute authority of Jesus and discover why true spiritual growth begins with a heart fully submitted to Him.

Additional Resources

• Watch or listen to Past Sermons
• Start With 7 (Daily Audio Devotionals)
• GOOD.GOD.GOSPEL. (How to Have Conversations Toward Salvation)
• Learn about Church Project Network and follow our NEW Instagram (@churchprojectofficial)
• Read this book by Jason: “A Church of House Churches: An Articulated and Applied Ecclesiology”
• Website

This episode covers Colossians 2:6-15, challenging believers to continue growing in Christ, recognize deceptive teachings, submit to the authority of Jesus, understand the significance of baptism, and live in the freedom secured through the cross.

Paul reminds believers to continue living in Christ just as they received Him as Lord. The Christian life begins with grace and surrender, and it continues the same way. We are called to remain rooted in Christ, strengthened in faith, growing in our commitment, and overflowing with thankfulness. Even when seasons of growth are difficult, deep roots help us remain steadfast.

The passage also warns against hollow and deceptive philosophies that depend on human tradition and the spiritual forces of this world rather than Christ. Believers have a personal spiritual responsibility to protect themselves, their families, and their church by remaining grounded in Scripture. Anything that alters or adds to Christ as He is can lead us away from the truth.

Colossians declares that all the fullness of the Deity lives in Jesus bodily. Because Jesus is fully God and the head over every power and authority, He deserves complete submission. If Jesus is our Savior, He is also our Lord and leader. Following Him means obeying what He says and surrendering every area of our lives to His authority.

Paul then points to baptism as a picture of the old life being buried and a new life being raised through faith in the power of God. Our salvation does not come through good works or willpower, but through the resurrection power of Jesus.

Finally, we are reminded that Jesus canceled our sin debt through the cross and disarmed the powers and authorities. We were dead in our sins, but God made us alive with Christ. Because of what Jesus has done, we do not need to continue living in fear or shame. We can live freely and fully in the victory of the cross.

Additional Resources

• Watch or listen to Past Sermons
• Start With 7 (Daily Audio Devotionals)
• GOOD.GOD.GOSPEL. (How to Have Conversations Toward Salvation)
• Learn about Church Project Network and follow our NEW Instagram (@churchprojectofficial)
• Read this book by Jason: “A Church of House Churches: An Articulated and Applied Ecclesiology”
• Website

This episode covers Colossians 2:1-5, where Paul challenges believers to fight for the faith of others, pursue gospel goals greater than themselves, seek more of Jesus, resist deception, and grow in spiritual discipline. Through Paul's words to the church, we discover what it means to live a life fully engaged in gospel work and committed to the growth of others.

Following Jesus was never meant to be easy or comfortable. Paul describes contending for others as a struggle, even an agony. Gospel work requires us to fight through prayer, invest in people's lives, and recognize that the local church is worth fighting for. Rather than pursuing an easy Christianity, we are called to contend for the gospel growth of others.

Paul also reminds us of the importance of having a gospel goal greater than ourselves. His purpose always included Jesus and the local church. When our lives are connected to something eternally meaningful, we discover purpose in this life and peace for the next.

But gospel growth isn't only about ourselves. Paul deeply desired for others to experience salvation in Jesus while continuing to discover more of Christ himself. There is always more to know about Jesus, and we grow in that knowledge through seeking and suffering.

At the same time, believers must recognize the ongoing danger of deception. Fine-sounding arguments can distract us and lead us in a different direction. God's Word, wisdom, and wise counsel help us recognize these attacks.

Finally, Paul celebrates the Colossians' discipline and firm faith. Spiritual maturity requires consistent Bible reading, prayer, giving, community, and serving.

Are you fighting for the faith of others? Do you have a gospel goal beyond yourself? And are you growing more disciplined and firm in your faith? These questions challenge us to pursue a Christianity marked by purpose, perseverance, and gospel growth.

Additional Resources

• Watch or listen to Past Sermons
• Start With 7 (Daily Audio Devotionals)
• GOOD.GOD.GOSPEL. (How to Have Conversations Toward Salvation)
• Learn about Church Project Network and follow our NEW Instagram (@churchprojectofficial)
• Read this book by Jason: “A Church of House Churches: An Articulated and Applied Ecclesiology”
• Website

This episode covers Colossians 1:24-29, exploring what it means to rejoice in suffering, serve the Church, proclaim Jesus, and live with the end in mind. Paul’s words challenge us to see suffering not simply as something to avoid, but as something God can use to shape and sanctify us. While suffering may seem antithetical to our human spirit, God does some of His deepest work in the crushing, shaping us in ways that other experiences cannot.

The conversation also looks at what it means to have full access to the new life we have in Christ while still being attached to the old. We are saved, being sanctified, and still human here. Rather than avoiding the things that shape us, we are called to recognize how God uses suffering in the process of sanctification.

Paul’s example also points us toward becoming servants of Christ and servants of the Church. Because the Church is the body of Christ, we are called to see it as sacred, worth serving, and worth building up. A major part of that calling is presenting the Word in its fullness.

At the center of the passage is the mystery that has been revealed in Jesus: Christ in you, the hope of glory. Whatever we are looking for—money, health, relationships, family, dreams, or anything else—our ultimate hope is found in Jesus. He is the greatest revelation and the only hope that anything could become glorious.

Finally, this episode challenges us to publicly and personally proclaim Jesus, help others mature in Christ, and consider what we are ultimately aiming toward. There will be an end, and the question is: What will be said of you at the end?

Additional Resources

• Watch or listen to Past Sermons
• Start With 7 (Daily Audio Devotionals)
• GOOD.GOD.GOSPEL. (How to Have Conversations Toward Salvation)
• Learn about Church Project Network and follow our NEW Instagram (@churchprojectofficial)
• Read this book by Jason: “A Church of House Churches: An Articulated and Applied Ecclesiology”
• Website

This episode covers Colossians 1:21-23, exploring the powerful reality of what it means to be reconciled to God through Jesus. Paul begins by reminding us of the seriousness of our former condition—we were alienated from God, enemies in our minds, and living in evil behavior. But the gospel tells a completely different story: what was once broken has been made right through the physical death of Jesus Christ.

Through Christ, believers are presented holy in God’s sight, without blemish and free from accusation. This reconciliation is not something we accomplish by becoming good enough or convincing God to see us differently. It is the work of Jesus. In a moment, we are made right with God, while for a lifetime we continue becoming more like Christ through His Spirit, His Scriptures, His Church, His grace, and His kindness.

The message also examines what it means to remain established and firm in the faith. Continuing in the faith does not earn our reconciliation; rather, remaining reveals that we have been reconciled. When life becomes confusing, desperate, or unclear, we are called to know the gospel and place our hope in it.

Finally, this passage challenges every believer to confidently know and share the gospel. The gospel is not meant to remain invisible or silent—it is something we have heard and something others need to hear from us. Because the gospel is for everyone, we are called to intentionally move people along in their journey toward Jesus and become servants of the gospel, using every part of our lives to serve its mission.

Additional Resources

• Watch or listen to Past Sermons
• Start With 7 (Daily Audio Devotionals)
• GOOD.GOD.GOSPEL. (How to Have Conversations Toward Salvation)
• Learn about Church Project Network and follow our NEW Instagram (@churchprojectofficial)
• Read this book by Jason: “A Church of House Churches: An Articulated and Applied Ecclesiology”
• Website

This episode covers Acts 11:19-24 and the pivotal moment when the gospel began moving beyond the familiar and comfortable. Jason Shepperd and Dave Edwards explore what happened when some believers went further than they had gone before and began sharing the good news of Jesus with people outside their normal circles.

Through the story of Barnabas and the believers in Antioch, they unpack what it looks like to step outside our comfort zones, trust the Holy Spirit, and become people who genuinely want others to know Jesus. Barnabas wasn’t known as a great orator or a front-and-center leader. He was simply a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith, and God used him to encourage people and see a great number of people come to the Lord.

The conversation also explores what it means to pray and wrestle with God for an obvious move of God. Rather than simply looking for the event of revival, the focus is on the movement of revival—believers who are willing to contend for the hearts of people around them and live with a sense of urgency for the gospel.

Jason and Dave challenge Christians to embrace a “one more” mindset: one more person hearing the gospel, one more person coming to Christ, and one more life being changed by Jesus. They discuss how spiritual growth is never ultimately about ourselves, but about allowing God to use our lives for the benefit of others.

Whether you feel equipped to share the gospel or not, this conversation is a reminder that you don’t have to wait until you feel fearless. You can do it afraid, trust that the Lord’s hand is with you, and simply take the next step.

Additional Resources

• Watch or listen to Past Sermons
• Start With 7 (Daily Audio Devotionals)
• GOOD.GOD.GOSPEL. (How to Have Conversations Toward Salvation)
• Learn about Church Project Network and follow our NEW Instagram (@churchprojectofficial)
• Read this book by Jason: “A Church of House Churches: An Articulated and Applied Ecclesiology”
• Website

This episode covers Colossians 1:18-20 and the supremacy of Jesus over His Church, His power over death, the fullness of God found in Him, and the reconciliation He accomplished through the cross.

Paul describes Jesus as the head of the body, the Church. Jesus does not simply call us into a relationship with Himself; He makes us part of His body and calls us to belong to one another. We cannot claim to love the Head while remaining disconnected from the body. The more we love Jesus, the more we will love what He loves—and Jesus loves His Church and the lost.

Jesus is also the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead. He entered creation but was not created. He existed before all things, and through His own power He conquered death. Because He is before all things, He should be before everything in our lives. Jesus does not settle for second place. He is supreme over our relationships, emotions, desires, decisions, plans, possessions, fears, careers, families, and futures.

Paul then makes an extraordinary declaration: all the fullness of God dwells in Jesus. Everything that makes God, God, is found fully in Christ. This gives us confidence and clarity about who Jesus is and why He alone can reconcile us to God.

We were not alright. We were separated from God and needed reconciliation, but God initiated peace. Through the blood of Jesus shed on the cross, He paid the price necessary to bring us back to Himself. We do not reconcile ourselves through good works, shame, suffering, or trying harder.

The cross was God’s complete plan. Jesus paid for our reconciliation, made peace with God possible, and finished the work.

Additional Resources

• Watch or listen to Past Sermons
• Start With 7 (Daily Audio Devotionals)
• GOOD.GOD.GOSPEL. (How to Have Conversations Toward Salvation)
• Learn about Church Project Network and follow our NEW Instagram (@churchprojectofficial)
• Read this book by Jason: “A Church of House Churches: An Articulated and Applied Ecclesiology”
• Website

This episode covers Colossians 1:15-17 and the supremacy of Jesus over all creation. Paul gives us one of Scripture’s clearest pictures of who Jesus really is—not simply a good teacher, prophet, or spiritual guide, but the visible image of the invisible God, the Creator of everything, and the One who holds all things together.

What does it mean that Jesus is “the image of the invisible God” and “the firstborn over all creation”? We explore why seeing Jesus is seeing God, why Jesus didn’t begin at His birth, and why understanding His eternal nature changes the way we understand Christianity altogether. Jesus is co-eternal, co-equal, and co-existing with the Father—God in the flesh.

Colossians also tells us that everything in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, was created through Jesus and for Jesus. That includes more than what we can see or fully understand. While we may not have answers for everything about the physical and spiritual worlds, we can have faith beyond our best understanding. Everything exists for His glory—and that includes us. We were made for Him, and our fullest selves are found in Him.

Finally, Paul reminds us that Jesus doesn’t create and abandon. “In him all things hold together.” When it feels like everything in life is falling apart, Jesus is still holding it all together. Instead of pulling away when life becomes uncertain, we can get closer to Him.

The more clearly we see who Jesus is, the more our response becomes awe, worship, and wonder. Jesus was before us, He is beyond us, and everything ultimately depends on Him.

Additional Resources

• Watch or listen to Past Sermons
• Start With 7 (Daily Audio Devotionals)
• GOOD.GOD.GOSPEL. (How to Have Conversations Toward Salvation)
• Learn about Church Project Network and follow our NEW Instagram (@churchprojectofficial)
• Read this book by Jason: “A Church of House Churches: An Articulated and Applied Ecclesiology”
• Website

This episode covers Colossians 1:9-14, where Paul gives us a powerful picture of what it looks like to follow Jesus and how we should pray for ourselves and others. As the gospel continues to move and grow, Paul reminds the church that gospel participation requires the power and protection of prayer to persevere.

We’ll explore why one of our greatest desires should be to know the will of God and how spiritual wisdom and understanding come from walking by the Spirit. We’ll also look at what it means to live a life worthy of the Lord—not because we could ever earn His grace, but because honoring His name becomes our aim.

This passage challenges us to consider whether our lives are ultimately being lived to please ourselves, others, or the Lord. We’ll talk about how the same grace that saved us continues to sanctify us and how good works are not a way to earn salvation, but the visible fruit of a life transformed by the gospel.

The conversation also explores what it means to continually grow in the knowledge of God and become stronger in His strength. God’s goal is not for us to remain the same, but to grow in endurance and patience so we can keep going and wait for Him to work.

Finally, we’ll celebrate the joyful reality at the heart of the gospel: we were disqualified, but Jesus has qualified us. He rescued us from the dominion of darkness, brought us into His kingdom, and gave us redemption. This is why we pray, why we care about those who are far from God, and why we step into the lives of others with the message of salvation.

Join us as we discover what it means to become people who pray, grow, endure, give thanks, do good works, and live fully for Jesus.

Additional Resources

• Watch or listen to Past Sermons
• Start With 7 (Daily Audio Devotionals)
• GOOD.GOD.GOSPEL. (How to Have Conversations Toward Salvation)
• Learn about Church Project Network and follow our NEW Instagram (@churchprojectofficial)
• Read this book by Jason: “A Church of House Churches: An Articulated and Applied Ecclesiology”
• Website

This episode covers Colossians 1:3-8 and what it looks like when the Gospel takes root in a church, transforms individual lives, and continues to grow through people who faithfully share it.

Paul begins by thanking God for the Colossian church and praying for them. His example reminds us that praying for our church should become normal—not casually, but always, often, passionately, and with faith. We are in a spiritual war, and prayer is part of the work God has called His people to do.

The Colossians were known for their faith in Christ Jesus and their love for God’s people. But that faith and love didn’t originate within themselves. They sprang from the hope stored up for them in heaven. The Gospel leads to salvation, salvation leads to the giving of the Spirit, and the Spirit becomes a source that is continually flowing and growing in the life of a believer. Jesus remains the ongoing source of our faith and love.

We also see that the Gospel is meant to be heard. People hear the Gospel from other people, and there are still people around us who have never heard its true message. As the Gospel goes throughout the world, it bears fruit, changes lives, produces holiness, and invites every believer to participate in its growth.

Finally, we look at Epaphras—a faithful servant who carried the Gospel to others—and ask a personal question: Who has heard the Gospel from you? Sharing Jesus isn’t pressure; it’s a privilege, a purpose, a passion, and a deep pleasure.

Additional Resources

• Watch or listen to Past Sermons
• Start With 7 (Daily Audio Devotionals)
• GOOD.GOD.GOSPEL. (How to Have Conversations Toward Salvation)
• Learn about Church Project Network and follow our NEW Instagram (@churchprojectofficial)
• Read this book by Jason: “A Church of House Churches: An Articulated and Applied Ecclesiology”
• Website