What does it really mean to fully follow Jesus? In this message from Luke 24:13-35, Pastor Chris Teien walks through the story of the road to Emmaus and shows how true discipleship is more than being near Jesus or knowing facts about Him. It means seeing Him clearly, letting God’s Word shape your understanding, responding personally, and allowing your life to be changed.Link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/19002908Key Points

1.  Recognize When You Are Missing Jesus - Even sincere people can be near Jesus and still fail to recognize Him. Disappointment, wrong expectations, and shallow understanding can cloud our view. 
2.  Let God’s Word Shape Your Understanding - Jesus opened the Scriptures to help the disciples understand who He really was. Real discipleship is built on truth, not feelings alone. 
3.  Move Toward a Real Relationship with Jesus - The men on the road invited Jesus to stay with them. Following Jesus requires a personal response, not just interest or observation. 
4.  Expect Your Life to Be Transformed - When their eyes were opened, everything changed. A true encounter with Christ changes your direction, priorities, and purpose. 
5.  Share What Jesus Has Done in Your Life - Once they recognized Jesus, they went and told others. Real faith does not stay private. A changed life becomes a testimony. 

Personal Stories
 Pastor Chris connects disciple-making to his own experience as a trainer, explaining that helping someone follow Christ is much like training someone in an important role. He also shares personally about wrestling with assurance of salvation and coming to a real, settled relationship with Christ. Quotes
 You can be near Jesus and still not recognize Him.
 A disciple pursues relationship, not just information.
 Before you make a disciple, you must become one.
 Am I fully following Jesus, or just watching Him?Takeaways
 Ask God to reveal any place where you are near Jesus but not truly following Him.
 Spend time in Scripture and let God’s Word reshape your understanding.
 Move beyond information and intentionally pursue a real relationship with Christ.
 Share with at least one person what Jesus has done in your life.Scripture
 Luke 24:13-35 - The road to Emmaus and the call to fully follow Jesus
 Matthew 7:21 - Nearness to spiritual things is not the same as true obedience
 Proverbs 3:5 - Trusting God instead of leaning on your own understanding
 John 5:39 - Scripture points us to Christ
 Hebrews 4:12 - God’s Word works in the heart
 James 1:22 - Be doers of the Word, not hearers only
 Romans 10:9 - Following Jesus requires personal faith and response
 John 15:5 - Real relationship with Jesus produces fruit
 2 Corinthians 5:17 - Life transformation in Christ
 Acts 3:19 - Repentance involves a change of direction
 Matthew 6:33 - Reordering life around God’s kingdom
 Acts 4:20 - Real faith speaks about what Christ has done
 John 9:25 - A personal testimony matters
 2 Timothy 2:2 - Pass the truth on to othersKeywords
 discipleship, following Jesus, Luke 24, road to Emmaus, Christian growth, spiritual transformation, disciple making, Rockwell Church26.0411de The WELL Faith Podcast offers encouraging, Bible-based messages from Pastor Chris Teien and guests. New sermons are released every Sunday. Replay episodes are marked with an asterisk. Find us online at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.Church in Virginia, MN. Email comments to [email protected]

In this Easter message from Matthew 28, Pastor Chris Teien walks through the reality and power of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. This message shows how the resurrection is not just a historical event, but a life-changing truth that reveals who Jesus is, calls for a personal response, and offers new life today. Link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/18966481The Resurrection Reveals the Truth About Jesus – Matthew 28:1–7
 Jesus’ resurrection proves that everything He said about Himself is true. He is the Son of God with authority over sin and death (Romans 1:4).The Resurrection Requires a Response to Jesus – Matthew 28:8–17
 Everyone must respond to the risen Christ. Like the women and the disciples, we are called to believe, worship, and go tell others (Romans 10:9, Matthew 10:32).The Resurrection Results in New Life Through Jesus – Matthew 28:18–20
 Because Jesus is alive, we are given a new life and a new purpose. We are called to follow Him and make disciples (Romans 6:4).Personal Stories from Pastor Chris:
 Pastor Chris shares how God used people in his life, including family and a Christian camp, to help him understand that Jesus is real and personally know Him.Notable Quotes:
 “If the resurrection is not true, we have no hope. But because it is true, everything changes.”
 “Jesus didn’t just rise from the dead and disappear. He is alive and active in our lives today.”
 “We don’t just celebrate that Jesus won. We live in His victory.”Actionable Takeaways:
 Reflect on what the resurrection means for your personal life
 Place your faith in Jesus and begin a relationship with Him
 Share the message of the resurrection with someone this week
 Take a step toward living as a fully devoted follower of ChristScripture References:
 Matthew 28:1–20 – The resurrection account and Great Commission
 1 Corinthians 15 – The importance of the resurrection
 Romans 1:4 – Jesus declared Son of God by resurrection
 Romans 10:9 – Salvation through faith in Christ
 John 11:25 – Jesus is the resurrection and the life
 Romans 6:4 – New life through ChristKeywords:
 Resurrection, Easter, Jesus Christ, new life, salvation, faith, discipleship, Great Commission, gospel, hopeChallenge:
 Because Jesus is alive, take one step this week to follow Him more fully and share that truth with someone else.Listen Link:
 Listen & Subscribe: wellfaith.buzzsprout.com#RockwellChurch21826.0405de  Victory in Action: How the Resurrection Gives You New Life  The WELL Faith Podcast offers encouraging, Bible-based messages from Pastor Chris Teien and guests. New sermons are released every Sunday. Replay episodes are marked with an asterisk. Find us online at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.Church in Virginia, MN. Email comments to [email protected]

In this Good Friday message from Matthew 27:45-54, Pastor Chris explores the power and meaning of the cross and what it means for those who believe. The message reveals the weight of sin, the sacrifice of Jesus, and the incredible truth that through the cross, we are brought near to God. Link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/18961500Key Points:

1.  The Cross Reveals the Weight of Sin – Matthew 27:45
    Sin is serious and carries real consequences. The darkness at the cross shows the weight of sin and the reality of God’s judgment. 
2.  The Cross Enabled Jesus to Rescue You – Matthew 27:46-50
    Jesus willingly gave His life, taking on our sin so that we could receive His righteousness and be restored to God. 
3.  The Cross Invites You to Come Near – Matthew 27:51-54
    The torn curtain means we now have direct access to God through Jesus. There is no longer a barrier between us and Him. 

Personal Stories from Pastor Chris:
 Pastor Chris shares a personal example of stepping into a lower role at work to follow God’s calling, highlighting humility and the challenge of surrendering position for purpose.Notable Quotes:
 “Sin is a serious thing, and the cross proves it.”
 “Jesus didn’t have His life taken. He gave it.”
 “The cross didn’t just save you. It brought you near to God.”Actionable Takeaways:
 Take time to honestly evaluate how you view sin in your life
 Confess anything that may be holding you back spiritually
 Trust fully in Jesus for salvation and not in your own efforts
 Approach God with confidence because of what Jesus has doneScripture References:
 Matthew 27:45-54 – The crucifixion and the torn curtain
 Romans 6:23 – The wages of sin
 Amos 8:9 – Prophecy of darkness
 2 Corinthians 5:21 – Christ became sin for us
 Isaiah 53:6 – The Lord laid our sin on Him
 1 Peter 3:18 – Christ suffered once for sins
 Hebrews 10:19-20 – Access to God through Jesus
 Ephesians 2:13 – Brought near by the blood of ChristKeywords:
 Good Friday, cross of Christ, salvation, freedom in Christ, forgiveness, Matthew 27, grace, repentance, access to God, Christian faithChallenge:
 Come to the cross today by confessing your sin, placing your faith in Jesus, and drawing near to God with a humble and surrendered heart.26.0403de Sacrifice in Action: How the Cross Sets You Free The WELL Faith Podcast offers encouraging, Bible-based messages from Pastor Chris Teien and guests. New sermons are released every Sunday. Replay episodes are marked with an asterisk. Find us online at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.Church in Virginia, MN. Email comments to [email protected]

On Palm Sunday, the crowd celebrated Jesus as King, but they misunderstood His mission. In this message from Matthew 21:1-17, Pastor Chris Teien walks through the triumphal entry and reveals what truly mattered to Jesus as He moved toward the cross. This message challenges us to examine our own priorities and align them with God’s purpose for our lives. Link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/18928468Key Points:
Walk in Obedience to God’s Plan – Matthew 21:1-5
Jesus intentionally fulfilled prophecy and followed the Father’s plan. True discipleship means choosing obedience even when it’s difficult or misunderstood.Receive Jesus for Who He Truly Is – Matthew 21:6-11
The crowd welcomed Jesus, but many expected a political deliverer. We must receive Him not based on our expectations, but based on who He truly is as Savior and Lord.Pursue True Worship, Not Empty Religion – Matthew 21:12-13
Jesus cleansed the temple, confronting shallow and corrupted worship. God desires sincere hearts, not religious routines.Value People Over Religious Systems – Matthew 21:14-17
Jesus healed and welcomed those others overlooked. His priority was always people, not performance or tradition.Choose Christ-Centered Priorities – Matthew 6:33
What we pursue shapes our lives. When we seek God’s kingdom first, everything else falls into place.Personal Stories from Pastor Chris:
Pastor Chris shares reflections from stepping out in faith to start a church in a new community, highlighting how God provides the right people and resources at the right time.Notable Quotes:
 “Palm Sunday reminds us that Jesus knew exactly where He was going and why.”
 “Partial obedience is still disobedience.”
 “Many people say the right things about Jesus but don’t truly understand who He is.”Actionable Takeaways:
Reflect on what direction your life is moving and whether your priorities align with God’s will
Spend intentional time with God instead of just staying busy for Him
Evaluate whether your worship is genuine or simply routine
Look for opportunities to encourage and serve others this week
Take a step of obedience in an area where God is prompting youScripture References:
 Matthew 21:1-17 – The triumphal entry and temple cleansing
 Zechariah 9:9 – Prophecy of the King entering on a donkey
 Luke 19:10 – Jesus came to seek and save the lost
 John 6:15 – People attempted to make Jesus king by force
 Psalm 118:25-26 – “Hosanna” and the cry for salvation
 Isaiah 56:7 – God’s house as a house of prayer
 Jeremiah 7:11 – Warning against empty religion
 Matthew 6:33 – Seek first the kingdom of GodKeywords:
 Palm Sunday, Matthew 21, Jesus’ priorities, triumphal entry, true worship, obedience to God, Christian living, faith and priorities, biblical teaching, following JesusChallenge:
 This week, ask yourself where your life is headed and choose one specific way to align your priorities with Jesus by obeying His Word and putting Him first. The WELL Faith Podcast offers encouraging, Bible-based messages from Pastor Chris Teien and guests. New sermons are released every Sunday. Replay episodes are marked with an asterisk. Find us online at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.Church in Virginia, MN. Email comments to [email protected]

What does true greatness really look like? In this message from Matthew 20:20-28, Pastor Chris explores how Jesus completely redefines leadership, shifting the focus from power and position to humility, service, and sacrifice. This episode challenges listeners to lead like Christ in everyday life, wherever God has placed them.Link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/18893050Key Points:

1.  Recognize the Pull of Self-Focused Leadership – Matthew 20:20-21; James 3:16
    Selfish ambition and comparison can distort leadership. True leadership begins with examining the heart and motives. 
2.  Realize the Cost of True Greatness – Matthew 20:22-23; Luke 9:23
    Following Jesus means embracing sacrifice, suffering, and surrender, not just seeking recognition. 
3.  Reject the World’s Way of Leading – Matthew 20:24-25; 1 Peter 5:2-3
    Worldly leadership relies on power and authority, but Jesus calls leaders to influence through humility and example. 
4.  Respond to the Call to Serve Others – Matthew 20:26-27; Galatians 5:13
    Greatness in God’s kingdom is measured by service. Leadership is about lifting others up, not elevating yourself. 
5.  Reflect the Example of Christ – Matthew 20:28; Philippians 2:5
    Jesus modeled ultimate leadership by giving His life. We are called to lead with the same sacrificial mindset. 

Personal Stories from Pastor Chris:
 Pastor Chris shares relatable examples of leadership in everyday life, including parenting, church life, and developing leaders. He also reflects on the challenge and joy of training others and stepping aside when someone else is better suited to lead.Notable Quotes:
 “Everybody is a leader because somebody is watching your life.”
 “Do you want to lead, or do you want recognition?”
 “Greatness in God’s kingdom is not about position, but about serving others.”Actionable Takeaways:
 Examine your motives for leadership. Are they self-focused or Christ-centered?
 Choose one area this week to serve someone intentionally without recognition.
 Ask God to grow humility and a servant’s heart in your leadership.
 Take a step toward developing others instead of competing with them.Scripture References:
 Matthew 20:20-28 – Jesus defines true greatness through service
 Matthew 19:28-30 – Context of future reward and misunderstanding
 James 3:16 – Warning against selfish ambition
 Luke 9:23 – Taking up the cross daily
 1 Peter 5:2-3 – Shepherding with humility
 Galatians 5:13 – Serving one another in love
 Philippians 2:5 – The mindset of ChristKeywords:
 servant leadership, Christian leadership, Jesus leadership, humility, faith, discipleship, church leadership, Matthew 20, spiritual growthChallenge:
 This week, choose to lead like Jesus by serving someone sacrificially, expecting nothing in return.26.0322de The WELL Faith Podcast offers encouraging, Bible-based messages from Pastor Chris Teien and guests. New sermons are released every Sunday. Replay episodes are marked with an asterisk. Find us online at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.Church in Virginia, MN. Email comments to [email protected]

In this message from Hebrews 13:15-17, Pastor Chris explores what true worship really looks like in everyday life. Worship is not limited to singing during church services. It is a lifestyle that includes praising God, proclaiming Christ, caring for others, and living faithfully in community with other believers. Link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/18850635Key Points1. Praise God continually with your life – Hebrews 13:15
 Worship is more than a moment in a service. It is a daily pattern of honoring God through gratitude, obedience, and praise in every situation of life. Even in hardship, believers can offer a sacrifice of praise that reflects trust in Christ. 2. Proclaim the name of Jesus boldly – Hebrews 13:15
 The “fruit of lips” means openly confessing allegiance to Jesus. Sharing faith does not require perfect answers. It is simply telling others what Christ has done in your life and pointing them to the gospel.3. Practice generosity and compassion – Hebrews 13:16
 Acts of kindness, generosity, and service are forms of worship that please God. When believers share their time, resources, and abilities with others, they demonstrate the transforming love of Christ.4. Support and participate in the life of the church – Hebrews 13:17
 God designed the church so believers grow through spiritual leadership, accountability, and encouragement. Faithful participation strengthens both the individual believer and the entire body of Christ.Personal Stories from Pastor Chris
 Examples included encouraging others through simple acts such as writing notes, helping people in need, sharing testimonies, and supporting church benevolence efforts like the care ministry and outreach to hospitals.Notable QuotesWorship is not just something we sing. It is something we live.The things that constantly come out of your mouth reveal the depth of your worship.You do not have to have every answer. Just tell people what Jesus has done in your life.Actionable TakeawaysReflect on whether praise is part of your daily life or only part of a church service.
 Look for opportunities to speak about Jesus naturally in everyday conversations.
 Serve others with generosity and compassion as an expression of worship.
 Commit to actively participating in the life and mission of your church.Scripture ReferencesHebrews 13:15-17 – Worship expressed through praise, witness, generosity, and obedience
 John 4:23-24 – Worship in spirit and truth
 Psalm 34:1 – Continual praise to God
 Psalm 50:14 – Offering thanksgiving to God
 Hosea 14:2 – Returning to the Lord with words of repentance and praise
 Romans 10:9-15 – Confessing Christ and proclaiming the gospel
 Acts 1:8 – Empowerment of the Holy Spirit for witness
 1 John 3:17-18 – Loving others through action
 James 2:17 – Faith demonstrated through worksKeywords
 Christian worship
 Hebrews 13
 lifestyle worship
 Christian witness
 faith in action
 generosity and compassion
 sharing your faith
 Christian discipleshipChallenge
 This week, intentionally practice worship beyond Sunday by praising God daily, speaking about Christ openly, and serving someone in need as an act of worship.26.0315de The WELL Faith Podcast offers encouraging, Bible-based messages from Pastor Chris Teien and guests. New sermons are released every Sunday. Replay episodes are marked with an asterisk. Find us online at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.Church in Virginia, MN. Email comments to [email protected]

How can Christians live with courage when the world feels unstable? In a world that often feels uncertain, many people respond with fear or discouragement. In this message from Romans 8:31-39, Pastor Chris Teien explains how followers of Christ can live with courage by trusting in God’s promises and the victory secured through Jesus. No hardship, accusation, or suffering can separate believers from the love of God. Link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/18811321Key Points:

1. God Is For Us – Romans 8:31-32
    Paul reminds believers that if God is for us, no opposing force can ultimately defeat us. God proved His commitment by giving His own Son for our salvation, showing that He is actively working for the good of His people.
2. Our Salvation Is Secure – Romans 8:33-34
    Believers are justified through faith in Christ. Because Jesus died, rose again, and now intercedes for us, no accusation from Satan or anyone else can condemn those whom God has declared righteous.
3. Hardship Cannot Separate Us from Christ – Romans 8:35-37
    Trouble, persecution, danger, and suffering are real parts of life in a fallen world. Yet Paul teaches that these trials cannot break the believer’s relationship with Christ. Through Him, we are more than conquerors.
4. God’s Love Is Unbreakable – Romans 8:38-39
    Neither death nor life, angels nor demons, present circumstances nor future fears can separate believers from the love of God in Christ Jesus.

Personal Stories from Pastor Chris:
Pastor Chris shares a childhood illustration of riding roller coasters to describe life’s unpredictable ups and downs and how believers ultimately wait for Christ to set them free into what comes next. He also reflects on a faithful believer who faced terminal illness with courage and continued pointing others to Christ until the end of his life.Notable Quotes:“Courage begins with knowing that God is on your side.”“If God is for us, no opposing force can overturn the salvation Christ has secured.”“When the truth of justification settles in the heart, courage begins to grow.”Actionable Takeaways:
Remember that your confidence comes from God’s promises, not from circumstances.
Rest in the truth that your salvation is secure through Christ.
Stand firm in your faith when facing pressure, opposition, or uncertainty.
Look for opportunities to encourage others with the hope found in Jesus.Scripture References:
Romans 8:31-39 – The believer’s security in God’s love
Romans 5:1 – Justified through faith and at peace with God
John 3:16 – God’s love demonstrated through Christ
1 John 4:9-10 – God’s love revealed through the sending of His Son
John 16:33 – Christ has overcome the world
Psalm 118:6 – The Lord is for me, I will not fear
1 Peter 2:24 – Christ bore our sins on the cross
1 John 2:1 – Jesus intercedes as our advocateKeywords:
Romans 8 sermon, Christian courage, God is for us, nothing can separate us from God’s love, justification by faith, overcoming hardship, faith in uncertain times, Christian hopeChallenge:
When life feels uncertain this week, remember that if God is for you, nothing in all creation can separate you from His love in Christ Jesus. The WELL Faith Podcast offers encouraging, Bible-based messages from Pastor Chris Teien and guests. New sermons are released every Sunday. Replay episodes are marked with an asterisk. Find us online at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.Church in Virginia, MN. Email comments to [email protected]

In this encouraging message, Pastor Chris walks through one of the most quoted and often misunderstood promises in the Bible, Romans 8:28–30. He explains what it truly means that “God works for the good” and shows how that good is not comfort or ease, but becoming more like Christ. Through Scripture, personal testimony, and pastoral insight, this message invites you to trust God not just in crisis, but in every ordinary day. Link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/18770580Key Points:

1. God is working in all things – Romans 8:28
    God is not just a rescue plan in emergencies. He is constantly at work in the life of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose.
2. God is shaping us to be like Christ – Romans 8:29
    The ultimate good is not wealth, comfort, or success, but conformity to Jesus. Every circumstance becomes part of God’s sanctifying work.
3. God is faithful from beginning to end – Romans 8:30
    From calling to justification to glorification, God’s saving work forms an unbreakable chain. What He begins, He completes.
4. The promise is personal and conditional
    This assurance belongs to those who love God and belong to Him. Salvation comes through repentance and faith in Christ alone.

Personal Stories from Pastor Chris:
 Pastor Chris shares how losing a construction job and briefly working in an optical lab opened the door to long term provision and health insurance for his growing family. He also recounts how purchasing a foreclosure home unexpectedly made adoption possible. These stories illustrate how God often works behind the scenes in ways we only understand later.Notable Quotes:
 God is not promising that everything is good. He is promising that He is working for good.
 The ultimate good in your life is not comfort. It is Christlikeness.
 God is faithful from beginning to end.Actionable Takeaways:
 Reflect on seasons where you now see God’s hand at work.
 Ask yourself whether you are measuring good by comfort or by Christlikeness.
 Write down your testimony so others can see God’s faithfulness.
 If you have never trusted Christ, call on Him today in repentance and faith.Scripture References:
 Romans 8:28–30 – God’s sovereign work for the believer’s good
 Romans 8:1, 15–16 – No condemnation and adoption as God’s children
 2 Corinthians 4:16–18 – Present troubles and eternal glory
 Psalm 34:19 – The righteous face many troubles
 John 3:16–18 – Salvation through belief in Christ
 Romans 10:9–10 – Confessing and believing for salvationKeywords:
 Romans 8:28, God’s sovereignty, suffering and faith, Christlikeness, adoption, justification, sanctification, Christian hope, trusting God, biblical encouragementChallenge:
 This week, choose to trust God not only in crisis but in the quiet moments, believing that He is shaping you to become more like Christ.26.0301de The WELL Faith Podcast offers encouraging, Bible-based messages from Pastor Chris Teien and guests. New sermons are released every Sunday. Replay episodes are marked with an asterisk. Find us online at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.Church in Virginia, MN. Email comments to [email protected]

Hard seasons are part of life, even for believers. In this episode, Pastor Chris walks through Romans 8:18–27 and explores what he calls “A Glory and Three Groans.” Discover how creation groans for renewal, believers groan for redemption, and the Holy Spirit groans in prayer on our behalf. This message will help you anchor your hope in future glory while faithfully enduring present trials.Link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/187270301. Compare Now with What Comes Next – Paul reminds us that present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory to be revealed (Romans 8:18). Though hardship is real, eternity reframes everything. Our future inheritance as co-heirs with Christ (Romans 8:17) gives us strength to endure today.2. Creation Groans for Renewal – Because of the fall (Genesis 3:17), creation is subjected to frustration and decay. Yet Romans 8:19–22 promises that creation itself will be liberated. Revelation 21–22 assures us that God will make all things new and remove the curse forever.3. Believers Groan for Redemption – We who have the firstfruits of the Spirit long for the redemption of our bodies (Romans 8:23). Our hope is not escape from this world, but resurrection and glorification (Philippians 3:20–21; 2 Corinthians 5:1–4). We wait patiently, confident that God is finishing what He started.4. The Spirit Groans in Prayer – In our weakness, when we do not know what to pray, the Spirit intercedes for us according to the will of God (Romans 8:26–27). Jesus Himself also intercedes for us (Romans 8:34). We are never alone in our suffering.Personal Stories from Pastor Chris:
 Pastor Chris shares a humorous moment at camp when he reacted to surprise by shouting “glory,” illustrating how groaning reveals the heart. He also recounts building a home that initially looked like chaos but eventually became something beautiful, mirroring how God is building future glory out of present hardship.Notable Quotes:
 “Present suffering is real, but it is not ultimate.”
 “Creation groans, believers groan, and even the Spirit groans, but glory is coming.”
 “This is not heaven. But heaven is coming.”Actionable Takeaways:
 Reflect on a current hardship and compare it with the eternal glory promised in Christ.
 Choose to remain faithful today, even when circumstances feel heavy.
 Pray honestly, trusting the Spirit to intercede when words fail.
 Share the hope of Christ with someone who is walking through suffering.Scripture References:
 Romans 8:17–27 – Suffering, glory, and the Spirit’s intercession
 2 Corinthians 11:23–28 – Paul’s endurance through hardship
 Philippians 3:20–21 – The promise of a glorified body
 Genesis 3:17 – The curse on creation
 Revelation 21:1–4; 22:3 – The removal of the curse and new creationKeywords:
 Christian hope, Romans 8, suffering and glory, resurrection, Holy Spirit intercession, future glory, biblical endurance, new creation, perseverance, faith in hard seasonsClosing Statement:
 This episode encourages listeners to fix their eyes on eternal glory, remain faithful in suffering, and trust that God is working even through life’s hardest seasons. The WELL Faith Podcast offers encouraging, Bible-based messages from Pastor Chris Teien and guests. New sermons are released every Sunday. Replay episodes are marked with an asterisk. Visit the well.faith media page and find us online at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.Church in Virginia, MN. Email comments to [email protected]

What does it mean to live with confidence as God’s adopted child? In this message from Romans 8:12–17, Pastor Chris explains how our identity in Christ reshapes how we fight sin, follow the Holy Spirit, and rest in God’s assurance. Discover how a secure foundation in Christ leads to freedom, faithfulness, and hope through every season of life. Link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/18688050Key Points: 1. Break free from the old way of living (Romans 8:12–13)
 Believers are no longer obligated to live according to the flesh. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we are called to actively put sin to death and walk in the freedom Christ provides.2. Walk daily under the Spirit’s leading (Romans 8:14)
 Those who are led by the Spirit are God’s children. A Spirit-led life is marked by surrender, obedience, and trust as God guides us step by step.3. Live confidently as God’s adopted child (Romans 8:15–17)
 Adoption is both a legal and relational change. Through Christ, we are welcomed into God’s family with full rights, assurance, and an eternal inheritance as co-heirs with Christ.Personal Stories from Pastor Chris:
 Pastor Chris uses the illustration of the Virginia High Bridge to show how a strong foundation determines long-term stability. Just as unseen supports hold the bridge steady, a secure identity in Christ sustains believers through pressure, temptation, and hardship.Notable Quotes:
 “Our faith needs a secure foundation, because what we believe shapes how we live.”
 “The flesh offers comfort without cost, but the Spirit offers life with a fight.”
 “God doesn’t accept us because we live right. We live right because God has accepted us.”Actionable Takeaways:• Reflect on areas where old habits or sinful patterns may be weakening your spiritual foundation
 • Choose one daily practice that helps you stay sensitive to the Spirit’s leading
 • Confess known sin quickly and receive God’s forgiveness with confidence
 • Live each day from your identity as God’s adopted child, not from fear or performanceScripture References:
 Romans 8:1, 10–17 – Life in the Spirit and adoption as God’s children
 Romans 6:11–14 – Dead to sin, alive in Christ
 Colossians 3:5–10 – Putting off the old self and putting on the new
 James 1:14–15 – The progression of temptation and sin
 1 John 1:8–9 – Confession and forgiveness
 Galatians 4:4–7 – Adoption and inheritance through Christ
 Proverbs 4:23 – Guarding the heartKeywords:
Christian identity, Romans 8, adoption in Christ, Holy Spirit, assurance of salvation, freedom from sin, spiritual growth, grace, discipleshipChallenge:
This week, choose to live from your identity as God’s adopted child by surrendering one area of struggle to the Holy Spirit and trusting God’s grace to guide your next step.26.0215de Living from a Secure Identity The WELL Faith Podcast offers encouraging, Bible-based messages from Pastor Chris Teien and guests. New sermons are released every Sunday. Replay episodes are marked with an asterisk. Visit the well.faith media page and find us online at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.Church in Virginia, MN. Email comments to [email protected]