The Local Church Podcast

October 6, 2024

In this sermon, we launch the series Potluck: Finding Hope in What We Bring to the Table by asking, "Whose table is it?" and examining Acts 2:42-47 to understand how the early church's table fellowship reflects Jesus' ministry and offers a model for our lives today. We explore Robert Farrar Capon's meditative approach to cooking an onion as a metaphor for slowing down and encountering the divine in everyday acts, challenging listeners to resist the cultural trend of disappearing gathering spaces. This message will resonate with those feeling disconnected or rushed in modern life, offering practical ways to create meaningful community and find hope through intentional table fellowship, reminding us that Jesus often did his best work around tables.

Scripture: Acts 2:42–47

For more information about The Local Church, visit our website. We're also posting good stuff on Facebook, Threads, and Instagram, too. Feedback? Questions? Comments? We'd love to hear it. Email Brent at [email protected].

To invest in what God's doing through The Local Church and help support these podcasting efforts and this movement of God's love, give online here.

September 29, 2024

In this sermon, we explore the fourth chapter of Paul's letter to the Philippians, focusing on cultivating a heart for blessing and the transformative power of living out God's future in the present. Those struggling with cynicism, seeking joy, or longing for a more meaningful spiritual practice will benefit from this message, learning how to "think about these things" (Philippians 4:8) and embody hope in their daily lives. By embracing this perspective, listeners will discover a path to joy and liberation, finding themselves in two places at once—present reality and God's promised future—thereby bringing glimpses of God's kingdom into their everyday experiences.

Scripture: Philippians 4:4–13

For more information about The Local Church, visit our website. We're also posting good stuff on Facebook, Threads, and Instagram, too. Feedback? Questions? Comments? We'd love to hear it. Email Brent at [email protected].

To invest in what God's doing through The Local Church and help support these podcasting efforts and this movement of God's love, give online here.

September 22, 2024

In this sermon, we explore Paul's letter to the Philippians, focusing on cultivating a heart for trust through the practice of being a "regular" in our relationship with God. Those struggling with doubt, uncertainty, or a desire for deeper faith will benefit from this message, learning how consistent, intentional engagement with God—even in small, everyday moments—can foster a transformative intimacy that enables us to trust in God's promises amidst life's challenges. Drawing from Philippians 3:7-14, this sermon offers practical ways to integrate spiritual practices into daily routines, empowering listeners to move from a transactional faith to a relational one, ultimately leading to a more joyful and resilient spiritual life.

Scripture: Philippians 3:7–16

For more information about The Local Church, visit our website. We're also posting good stuff on Facebook, Threads, and Instagram, too. Feedback? Questions? Comments? We'd love to hear it. Email Brent at [email protected].

To invest in what God's doing through The Local Church and help support these podcasting efforts and this movement of God's love, give online here.

September 15, 2024

In this sermon, as we celebrate five years of weekly worship, we explore more from Paul's letter to the Philippians, focusing on cultivating a heart for humility as exemplified by Jesus in Philippians 2:1-18. We learn how embracing humility and prioritizing others' interests over our own can lead to a more joyful and fulfilling life. This message inspires listeners to find joy in selfless service and to be "on the ground" for the sake of others, reflecting on how they can be "a gift that keeps on giving" in their daily lives.

Scripture: Philippians 2:1–18

For more information about The Local Church, visit our website. We're also posting good stuff on Facebook, Threads, and Instagram, too. Feedback? Questions? Comments? We'd love to hear it. Email Brent at [email protected].

To invest in what God's doing through The Local Church and help support these podcasting efforts and this movement of God's love, give online here.

September 8, 2024

This week, we launch our new "Take Heart" series and explore the theme "a heart for prayer" through Philippians 1:1-11. Pastor Brent discusses the importance of genuine, attentive communication and how holding others in our hearts can bring transformative joy. This message is perfect for anyone seeking to deepen their prayer life and foster meaningful connections.

Scripture: Philippians 1:1-11

For more information about The Local Church, visit our website. We're also posting good stuff on Facebook, Threads, and Instagram, too. Feedback? Questions? Comments? We'd love to hear it. Email Brent at [email protected].

To invest in what God's doing through The Local Church and help support these podcasting efforts and this movement of God's love, give online here.

September 1, 2024

In this sermon, we explore James 1:17-27, unpacking its call for Christians to be "doers of the word" and not just hearers. We learn about the importance of being quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger, as well as the true meaning of pure religion. This message will benefit anyone seeking to align their faith with action, offering practical wisdom on how to live out Christian values in daily life and reconnect with our purpose as followers of Jesus.

Scripture: James 1:17–27

For more information about The Local Church, visit our website. We're also posting good stuff on Facebook, Threads, and Instagram, too. Feedback? Questions? Comments? We'd love to hear it. Email Brent at [email protected].

To invest in what God's doing through The Local Church and help support these podcasting efforts and this movement of God's love, give online here.

August 25, 2024

In this sermon, we explore the concept of unity and reconciliation through the lens o the Bluey episode, “Flat Pack," drawing parallels to Ephesians 2:11–22 and Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s vision of the Beloved Community. Listeners will learn about the power of coming together, the importance of resolving conflicts peacefully, and how pursuing reconciliation can lead to a more joyful, harmonious life. This message will benefit anyone seeking to build stronger relationships, foster community, and live out their faith in practical ways.

Scripture: Ephesians 2:11-22

For more information about The Local Church, visit our website. We're also posting good stuff on Facebook, Threads, and Instagram, too. Feedback? Questions? Comments? We'd love to hear it. Email Brent at [email protected].

To invest in what God's doing through The Local Church and help support these podcasting efforts and this movement of God's love, give online here.

August 18, 2024

In this sermon, Pastor Brent explores the theme of comparison through the lens of the popular children's show "Bluey," specifically the episode "Baby Race." He delves into how comparison can corrode relationships and self-worth and even fuel larger conflicts. Listeners will learn about biblical examples of comparison-driven conflicts, from Cain and Abel to the disciples arguing over who is the greatest. Most importantly, the sermon offers a powerful antidote to comparison: Communion with God. Through exploring passages from Isaiah, Pastor Brent reminds us of God's unconditional love and presence, even in our struggles. This message will help listeners navigate feelings of inadequacy, jealousy, and fear of not measuring up in their daily lives. By embracing the truth of God's love, listeners are encouraged to let go of harmful comparisons and move towards celebration of one another's gifts, beauty, and belonging in diversity.

Scripture: Isaiah 43:1–7

For more information about The Local Church, visit our website. We're also posting good stuff on Facebook, Threads, and Instagram, too. Feedback? Questions? Comments? We'd love to hear it. Email Brent at [email protected].

To invest in what God's doing through The Local Church and help support these podcasting efforts and this movement of God's love, give online here.

August 11, 2024

In this sermon, we explore the spiritual power of play through the lens of Bluey's "Daddy Dropoff" episode and Jesus's surprising playfulness in John 8:2-11, revealing how play can disrupt our routines, liberate us from pretense, and ignite our imagination. Discover why adults struggle with playfulness, how Jesus used play to defuse a life-threatening situation, and practical ways to incorporate play as a spiritual practice in your daily life. Join us for a playful exploration of faith that might just transform your understanding of God, yourself, and the world around you.

Scripture: John 8:2–11

For more information about The Local Church, visit our website. We're also posting good stuff on Facebook, Threads, and Instagram, too. Feedback? Questions? Comments? We'd love to hear it. Email Brent at [email protected].

To invest in what God's doing through The Local Church and help support these podcasting efforts and this movement of God's love, give online here.

August 4, 2024

This week, we kick off our wackadoo sermon series called “The Gospel According to Bluey” with our first episode: “Camping." Through this episode and the words of Jesus, we explore the theme of friendship.

What you'll learn:

• How childhood friendships differ from adult relationships
• The challenges of forming deep friendships as adults
• Jesus' perspective on friendship and its importance
• How friendship with Jesus can transform our relationships with others

How this can help in your daily life:

• Gain a fresh perspective on the value of authentic friendships
• Learn to approach relationships with openness and vulnerability
• Understand how to cultivate deeper connections with others
• Discover how friendship can be a powerful force for personal growth and social change

Scripture: Luke 10:25–28; John 15:12–17

For more information about The Local Church, visit our website. We're also posting good stuff on Facebook, Threads, and Instagram, too. Feedback? Questions? Comments? We'd love to hear it. Email Brent at [email protected].

To invest in what God's doing through The Local Church and help support these podcasting efforts and this movement of God's love, give online here.