📖 Scripture: Isaiah 54:1–3, Exodus 29:46, Psalm 13:5

✨ Themes: Worship, God's presence, gratitude, the gospel, praise, God's faithfulness, dwelling with God, spiritual formation, responding to grace, joy, reverence, the gathered church, discipleship, worship leadership.

We are a Jesus-centered community on mission, shaped by the table, worship, prayer, story, and mission. Together we seek to bring the gospel to the nations, raise up leaders, and plant new Jesus-communities—living as the church both locally and globally. We hold fast to Scripture, the presence of the Spirit, and the call to join God's work of renewal in the world.

Learn more at: https://www.genesiscostamesa.com/

📖 Scripture: Isaiah 54:1–10, Acts 2:36–47

✨ Themes: The table, hospitality, community, belonging, devotion, breaking bread, generosity, welcoming strangers, discipleship, the early church, the Kingdom of God, mission, ordinary hospitality, family, biblical conviction, Jesus-centered community.

We are a Jesus-centered community on mission, shaped by the table, worship, prayer, story, and mission. Together we seek to bring the gospel to the nations, raise up leaders, and plant new Jesus-communities—living as the church both locally and globally. We hold fast to Scripture, the presence of the Spirit, and the call to join God's work of renewal in the world.

Learn more at: https://www.genesiscostamesa.com/

📖 Scripture: Ephesians 6:18–24

✨ Themes: Prayer, perseverance, spiritual vigilance, praying in the Spirit, intercession, the proclamation of the gospel, boldness, courage, encouragement, faithful ministry, Christian community, perseverance in faith, grace, peace, love.

We are a Jesus-centered community on mission, shaped by the table, worship, prayer, story, and mission. Together we seek to bring the gospel to the nations, raise up leaders, and plant new Jesus-communities—living as the church both locally and globally. We hold fast to Scripture, the presence of the Spirit, and the call to join God’s work of renewal in the world.

Learn more at: https://www.genesiscostamesa.com/

📖 Scripture: Ephesians 6:10–17

✨ Themes: Spiritual warfare, the armor of God, standing firm in Christ, God's strength, the schemes of the enemy, truth, righteousness, the gospel of peace, faith, salvation, the Word of God, victory through Christ, identity in the gospel.

We are a Jesus-centered community on mission, shaped by the table, worship, prayer, story, and mission. Together we seek to bring the gospel to the nations, raise up leaders, and plant new Jesus-communities—living as the church both locally and globally. We hold fast to Scripture, the presence of the Spirit, and the call to join God’s work of renewal in the world.

Learn more at: https://www.genesiscostamesa.com/

This week we begin a new journey through the book of Isaiah by looking at one of Scripture's clearest pictures of the promised Messiah. Isaiah points us to the coming Branch from the line of Jesse—the One upon whom the Spirit of the Lord rests in fullness. In this message, we explore the character of Jesus, the work of the Holy Spirit, and what it means to live with wisdom, understanding, counsel, might, knowledge, and the fear of the Lord.

Rather than judging by appearances, Jesus reveals God's perfect justice and righteousness, inviting us to delight in the Lord and become people who are shaped by His Spirit.

📖 Scripture: Isaiah 11:1–4

✨ Themes: the promised Messiah, the Spirit of the Lord, wisdom, understanding, counsel, might, knowledge, the fear of the Lord, righteousness, justice, the kingdom of God, the Branch of Jesse, delighting in the Lord, the person of Jesus, the work of the Holy Spirit.

We are a Jesus-centered community on mission, shaped by the table, worship, prayer, story, and mission. Together we seek to bring the gospel to the nations, raise up leaders, and plant new Jesus-communities—living as the church both locally and globally. We hold fast to Scripture, the presence of the Spirit, and the call to join God’s work of renewal in the world.

Learn more at: https://www.genesiscostamesa.com/

As Paul concludes his household instructions in Ephesians, he turns to children, parents, slaves, and masters. In this message, we explore God's design for the parent-child relationship through the lens of the gospel. We are reminded that before we are parents, spouses, leaders, or workers, we are first children of our Heavenly Father. His love, discipline, grace, and instruction become the model for how we relate to others and how we raise the next generation.

Together we consider what it means to obey and honor, how godly discipline reflects God's heart for His children, and why spiritual formation often happens through instruction, boundaries, training, and even struggle. Whether you are a parent, a child, both, or neither, this passage invites us to see ourselves as deeply loved sons and daughters learning to imitate our perfect Father.

📖 Scripture: Ephesians 6:1–9, Galatians 5:16–17, Ephesians 4:22–24, Hebrews 12:5–11, Deuteronomy 7:6, 1 John 3:1, Exodus 20:12, Genesis 1–3

✨ Themes: Children of God, parenting in imitation of the Father, obedience and honor, spiritual formation, discipline and instruction, grace and boundaries, the image of God, the battle between flesh and Spirit, training through struggle, affordable mistakes and wisdom, God's loving correction, identity as sons and daughters, serving others out of reverence for Christ.

We are a Jesus-centered community on mission, shaped by the table, worship, prayer, story, and mission. Together we seek to bring the gospel to the nations, raise up leaders, and plant new Jesus-communities—living as the church both locally and globally. We hold fast to Scripture, the presence of the Spirit, and the call to join God’s work of renewal in the world.

Learn more at: https://www.genesiscostamesa.com/

📖 Scripture: Ephesians 5:21–33; Genesis 2:24

✨ Themes: Mutual submission and Christlike humility, covenant marriage as a reflection of Christ and the Church, sacrificial love and servant leadership, leaving and cleaving in lifelong commitment, resisting self-centered individualism, pursuing the good of another, marriage as a shared journey of becoming more like Christ.

We are a Jesus-centered community on mission, shaped by the table, worship, prayer, story, and mission. Together we seek to bring the gospel to the nations, raise up leaders, and plant new Jesus-communities—living as the church both locally and globally. We hold fast to Scripture, the presence of the Spirit, and the call to join God’s work of renewal in the world.

Learn more at: https://www.genesiscostamesa.com/

📖 Scripture: Genesis 2:18–24; Ephesians 5:21–33

✨ Themes: God’s design and purpose for marriage, covenant love and lifelong commitment, leaving and cleaving to form a new family, becoming one flesh in body, soul, and spirit, marriage as a reflection of Christ and the Church, mutual sacrifice, love, and submission, restoring God’s vision for relationships in a culture shaped by individualism.

We are a Jesus-centered community on mission, shaped by the table, worship, prayer, story, and mission. Together we seek to bring the gospel to the nations, raise up leaders, and plant new Jesus-communities—living as the church both locally and globally. We hold fast to Scripture, the presence of the Spirit, and the call to join God’s work of renewal in the world.

Learn more at: https://www.genesiscostamesa.com/

📖 Scripture: Ephesians 5:1–20; Genesis 1:1–2; Psalm 37:4

✨ Themes: Walking in the way of love, living as children of the light, pursuing holiness in a culture of compromise, discerning what pleases the Lord, redeeming our time with wisdom and purpose, being filled with the Spirit, cultivating lives marked by gratitude, worship, and thanksgiving.

We are a Jesus-centered community on mission, shaped by the table, worship, prayer, story, and mission. Together we seek to bring the gospel to the nations, raise up leaders, and plant new Jesus-communities—living as the church both locally and globally. We hold fast to Scripture, the presence of the Spirit, and the call to join God’s work of renewal in the world.

Learn more at: https://www.genesiscostamesa.com/

📖 Scripture: Ephesians 4:17–5:2; Genesis 2:15–17; Genesis 3:8; Romans 5:6–11

✨ Themes: Walking in the way of love as followers of Jesus, leaving behind old patterns and putting on new life in Christ, how hardened hearts shape our thinking and living, becoming a new humanity marked by truth, forgiveness, and compassion, living daily in the presence and power of Christ.

We are a Jesus-centered community on mission, shaped by the table, worship, prayer, story, and mission. Together we seek to bring the gospel to the nations, raise up leaders, and plant new Jesus-communities—living as the church both locally and globally. We hold fast to Scripture, the presence of the Spirit, and the call to join God’s work of renewal in the world.

Learn more at: https://www.genesiscostamesa.com/

In Ephesians 4, Paul reminds us that grace has been given to each of us—not only as mercy and favor, but as empowerment for the work of God. This message explores how Christ gifts and forms His church, calling every person into maturity, unity, and purpose. Together, we reflect on how God equips His people, builds His body, and invites each of us to play a part in the growth of the church. As we stay rooted in truth and love, we become a community strengthened to serve, encourage, and reflect Christ to the world.

📖 Scripture: Ephesians 4:7–16; 1 Corinthians 12:1–11

✨ Themes: Grace as undeserved mercy, unmerited favor, and divine empowerment, Spiritual gifts and the equipping of the church, Growing into maturity and unity in Christ, Moving from instability toward rootedness in truth and love, Discovering our role in building up the body of Christ.

About Genesis Costa Mesa

We are a Jesus-centered community on mission, shaped by the table, worship, prayer, story, and mission. Together we seek to bring the gospel to the nations, raise up leaders, and plant new Jesus-communities—living as the church both locally and globally. We hold fast to Scripture, the presence of the Spirit, and the call to join God’s work of renewal in the world.

Learn more at: https://www.genesiscostamesa.com/

In Ephesians 4, Paul shifts from belief to practice—urging the church to live lives worthy of the calling they’ve received. This message explores what it means to walk in humility, gentleness, unity, and love in the everyday rhythms of life. Together, we reflect on the small habits that shape us, the distractions that pull us away, and the invitation to become a community marked by the presence and character of Christ.

📖 Scripture: Ephesians 4:1–6; Song of Solomon 2:15; Ephesians 4:7

✨ Themes: Living a life worthy of our calling in Christ, Forming daily rhythms that shape faithfulness, Walking in humility, gentleness, patience, and unity, Paying attention to the “small foxes” that distract and erode devotion

About Genesis Costa Mesa

We are a Jesus-centered community on mission, shaped by the table, worship, prayer, story, and mission. Together we seek to bring the gospel to the nations, raise up leaders, and plant new Jesus-communities—living as the church both locally and globally. We hold fast to Scripture, the presence of the Spirit, and the call to join God’s work of renewal in the world. Learn more at: https://www.genesiscostamesa.com/

In Genesis 12, Abram responds to God’s call by building altars along the journey—places of encounter, remembrance, and surrender. This message explores why altars mattered in Abraham’s story and what it means for us to build rhythms of devotion in our own lives today. Even in the middle of fear, famine, and uncertainty, God continued to form Abraham through faith and obedience. As a church, we’re invited to return daily to the presence of God, creating space for prayer, fasting, worship, and breakthrough.

📖 Scripture: Genesis 12:1–9

✨ Themes: Encountering God in the middle of the journey, Remembering and trusting God’s promises, Building rhythms of prayer, fasting, and devotion, Returning to God daily in faith and surrender

About Genesis Costa Mesa

We are a Jesus-centered community on mission, shaped by the table, worship, prayer, story, and mission. Together we seek to bring the gospel to the nations, raise up leaders, and plant new Jesus-communities—living as the church both locally and globally. We hold fast to Scripture, the presence of the Spirit, and the call to join God’s work of renewal in the world.

Learn more at: https://www.genesiscostamesa.com/

From Paul’s prayer in Ephesians 3, we’re invited into a posture and a practice—kneeling before the Father and praying for something deeper than surface change. This message explores what it means to be strengthened by the Spirit in our inner being, to live rooted in the love of Christ, and to experience a power that is formed in God’s presence and in community. We also reflect on how practices like fasting help clear what clutters our souls, realign us with God’s purposes, and make room for fresh movement in our lives.

Scripture & Themes

📖 Scripture: Ephesians 3:14–21; James 5:16; John 13:34–35; Luke 5:37–39

✨ Themes: Kneeling before the Father in humility and dependence, Being strengthened by the Spirit in our inner life, How sin, isolation, and distraction drain spiritual power

About Genesis Costa Mesa

We are a Jesus-centered community on mission, shaped by the table, worship, prayer, story, and mission. Together we seek to bring the gospel to the nations, raise up leaders, and plant new Jesus-communities—living as the church both locally and globally. We hold fast to Scripture, the presence of the Spirit, and the call to join God’s work of renewal in the world.

Learn more at: https://www.genesiscostamesa.com/

In Epistle to the Ephesians 3, we step into Paul’s perspective on suffering, purpose, and what truly makes a life worth living.

Writing from prison, Paul reframes everything—not as loss, but as calling. His life is anchored in something bigger than comfort or personal gain: the building of God’s temple and the formation of a new kind of community.

At the center of it all is a mystery now revealed—God’s grace extended to all people—and an eternal purpose we are invited into. A life not driven by “what’s in it for me,” but by being part of what God is doing in the world.

📖 Scripture: Ephesians 3:1–13

✨ Themes:

Purpose over comfort, The mystery of Christ revealed, The Church as God’s dwelling and family, Living for something eternal

About Genesis Costa Mesa

We are a Jesus-centered community on mission, shaped by the table, worship, prayer, story, and mission. Together we seek to bring the gospel to the nations, raise up leaders, and plant new Jesus-communities—living as the church both locally and globally. We hold fast to Scripture, the presence of the Spirit, and the call to join God’s work of renewal in the world.

Learn more at: https://www.genesiscostamesa.com/

Throughout Scripture, God’s people fasted when they longed to draw near to Him and seek His guidance. In this message, we reflect on the invitation to fasting as a way of making space for prayer, attentiveness, and deeper dependence on God. As a church, we consider how practices like fasting and prayer help cultivate intimacy with God and a shared culture of seeking Him together.

GOD IS CALLING US TO DEEPER INTIMACY WITH HIM We want to invite you to join us for our 3 day Water Fast happening May 1-3. God is up to something... In these times, we know God will do so much more than we can anticipate. We want to posture ourselves toward God, the unexpected, and all that he wants to do.

Follow this link to our Fasting Guide.

Scripture & Themes

📖 Scripture: Joel 1:14; Joel 2:15–16; Acts 4:24; 1 Timothy 2:1–4

✨ Themes - Fasting as an invitation to intimacy with God - Developing a culture of prayer together - Joining the work God is doing

About Genesis Costa Mesa

We are a Jesus-centered community on mission, shaped by the table, worship, prayer, story, and mission. Together we seek to bring the gospel to the nations, raise up leaders, and plant new Jesus-communities—living as the church both locally and globally. We hold fast to Scripture, the presence of the Spirit, and the call to join God’s work of renewal in the world. Learn more at: https://www.genesiscostamesa.com/

In Ephesians 2, Paul reminds us that the gospel does more than change individual lives—it creates a new people. In a world shaped by hostility, division, and fear, Jesus tears down the dividing wall that separates us and brings those who were once far away near to God and to one another. Through His death and resurrection, Christ makes peace and forms one new humanity. The church becomes not just a gathering of individuals, but a living temple where God dwells by His Spirit. In Christ, strangers become family, and those who belong to Him belong to His people.

📖 Scripture: Ephesians 2:10–22

✨ Themes:

• Jesus destroys the dividing wall of hostility

• Through Christ, divided people become one new humanity

• God is building His people into a dwelling place for His Spirit

About Genesis Costa Mesa

We are a Jesus-centered community on mission, shaped by the table, worship, prayer, story, and mission. Together we seek to bring the gospel to the nations, raise up leaders, and plant new Jesus-communities—living as the church both locally and globally. We hold fast to Scripture, the presence of the Spirit, and the call to join God’s work of renewal in the world.

Learn more at: https://www.genesiscostamesa.com/

Once shaped by the patterns of the world, we find ourselves in need of something deeper than self-improvement—something only God can do.

But God.

In His mercy and great love, He meets us right where we are—making us alive in Christ, raising us into new life, and giving us a new place to stand. This is the work of grace from beginning to end.

And from that place, we begin to see that we are His workmanship—formed with intention, and invited to step into a life of purpose He has already prepared.

Ephesians 2:1–10

• From death to life
• Grace, not works
• Identity in Christ
• Living with purpose

We are a Jesus-centered community on mission, shaped by the table, worship, prayer, story, and mission. Together we seek to bring the gospel to the nations, raise up leaders, and plant new Jesus-communities—living as the church both locally and globally. We hold fast to Scripture, the presence of the Spirit, and the call to join God’s work of renewal in the world.

Learn more at: https://www.genesiscostamesa.com/

“I keep asking…”

A persistent prayer that we would truly know God — to see the hope we’re called to, the richness of our inheritance, and the power at work within us. The same power that raised Jesus from the dead.

Empires rise and fall, but Jesus remains above it all. And His church is still here.

What would it look like to pray like this?

Ephesians 1:15–23

• Persistent prayer

• Knowing God deeply

• Hope, inheritance, and power

• Jesus above all

We are a Jesus-centered community on mission, shaped by the table, worship, prayer, story, and mission. Together we seek to bring the gospel to the nations, raise up leaders, and plant new Jesus-communities—living as the church both locally and globally. We hold fast to Scripture, the presence of the Spirit, and the call to join God’s work of renewal in the world.

Learn more at: https://www.genesiscostamesa.com/

Nick Fox kicked off our new series in Ephesians by walking through the opening passage of Paul’s letter and the powerful reminder of who we are in Christ.

In these first verses, Paul keeps returning to one phrase: “in Christ.” It’s a simple idea, but it carries incredible depth. Through Jesus we are chosen, redeemed, forgiven, and brought into God’s family. Paul describes it as adoption—a picture of God lovingly bringing us in and giving us a new identity that isn’t based on what we’ve done, but on His grace.

This passage also reminds us that God’s work didn’t start with us. Before the foundation of the world, God had a plan to bring everything together in Christ—and we’re invited into that story. Because of Jesus, we now live as people who are loved, chosen, and sealed with the Holy Spirit as a promise of what’s to come.

📖 Scripture: Ephesians 1:1–14 ✨ Themes: Identity in Christ, Adoption into God’s family, Grace and redemption, God’s bigger story, Sealed with the Holy Spirit

About Genesis Costa Mesa: We are a Jesus-centered community shaped by the table, worship, prayer, story, and mission. Together we seek to bring the gospel to the nations, raise up leaders, and plant new Jesus-communities—living as the church both locally and globally. We hold fast to Scripture, the presence of the Spirit, and the call to join God’s work of renewal in the world.

Community on mission.

Learn more at: https://www.genesiscostamesa.com/

Money promises security without dependence. But Jesus invites us into something deeper — a life of trustful stewardship under God.

This week, Stu shared vulnerably from his own story — how God has used generosity to reshape his trust, loosen his grip, and invite him into deeper stewardship. Not obligation. Not pressure. But participation.

In Gospel of Matthew 14, a young boy offers a simple lunch — five loaves and two fish. It doesn’t look like much. Yet when placed in the hands of Jesus, it becomes more than enough. Whatever we have, large or small, is simply our lunch. We offer it. God multiplies it.

As a church family, we’ve seen this firsthand — lives shaped, needs met, and resources released for the sake of the gospel. The question beneath it all is quiet but confronting: If someone looked at how you use money, what would it reveal about your trust?

Where is your next step?

About Genesis Costa Mesa

We are a Jesus-centered community on mission, shaped by the table, worship, prayer, story, and mission. Together we seek to bring the gospel to the nations, raise up leaders, and plant new Jesus-communities—living as the church both locally and globally. We hold fast to Scripture, the presence of the Spirit, and the call to join God’s work of renewal in the world.

Learn more at: https://www.genesiscostamesa.com/

This weekend felt a little different for us as a church as we gathered to pray over Tyler and Haylee — part of the core family who helped shape our community from the early days — and sent them out with blessing into what God has next.

Through passages in Genesis and Isaiah, we were reminded that God is a Creator, that following Him is an adventure, and that His people are designed to flourish in community, multiply, and be sent into the world carrying the good news of His love. Together we reflected on the mission of every believer: to trust God, step out in faith, and live as people who go wherever He leads.

📖 Scripture: Isaiah 54:1–3, Genesis 1–2

About Genesis Costa Mesa

We are a Jesus-centered community shaped by the table, worship, prayer, story, and mission. Together we seek to bring the gospel to the nations, raise up leaders, and plant new Jesus-communities—living as the church both locally and globally. We hold fast to Scripture, the presence of the Spirit, and the call to join God’s work of renewal in the world.

Learn more at: https://www.genesiscostamesa.com/

This is love that isn’t thin, polite, or distant — it’s lavish. It’s extravagant, abundant, even offensive in how far it goes. It shows us the height, depth, and width of God’s affection for us — a love that seeks, restores, heals, and makes whole.

Hope and healing begin with posture — the posture of being seen, known, and loved.

—

About Genesis Costa Mesa: We are a Jesus-centered community shaped by the table, worship, prayer, story, and mission — a community on mission together. We seek to bring the gospel to the nations, raise up leaders, and plant new Jesus-communities, living as the church both locally and globally. We hold fast to Scripture, the presence of the Spirit, and the call to join God’s work of renewal in the world.

In week three of our Hope & Healing series, Chris reflected on our 24 Hours of Prayer—celebrating the way God encounters us as we intercede for one another and how whole communities can be transformed through simple, faithful obedience. From salt and light in Matthew 5:13 to Jesus’ encounter with the Samaritan woman in John 4, we were invited to consider how hope enters the most unlikely places and how healing unfolds when we allow ourselves to be seen and known by Jesus.

Scripture & Themes:

📖 Key Scripture: Matthew 5:13; John 4

✨ Themes: Hope and healing, intercession, salt & light, Jesus’ presence in the ordinary, testimony, transformation

About Genesis Costa Mesa:

We are a Jesus-centered community shaped by the table, worship, prayer, story, and mission. Together we seek to bring the gospel to the nations, raise up leaders, and plant new Jesus-communities—living as the church both locally and globally. We hold fast to Scripture, the presence of the Spirit, and the call to join God’s work of renewal in the world.

Learn more at: genesiscostamesa.com

In Week Two of Hope & Healing, Nick Fox reminded us that evangelism and healing are not optional or reserved for a few—they’re central to following Jesus. Faithfulness means stepping into contested territory, joining Jesus where the need is great and the harvest is ready. Our obedience matters, not just for us, but for those God is preparing beyond us.

Scripture & Themes: 📖 Scripture: Acts 10:34–38 | Mark 5 | Mark 7–8 ✨ Themes: Evangelism as compassion, healing & freedom, Kingdom conflict, spiritual resistance, obedience, mission, harvest

About Genesis Costa Mesa:

We are a Jesus-centered community shaped by the table, worship, prayer, story, and mission. Together we seek to bring the gospel to the nations, raise up leaders, and plant new Jesus-communities—living as the church both locally and globally. We hold fast to Scripture, the presence of the Spirit, and the call to join God’s work of renewal in the world. Learn more at: genesiscostamesa.com

Nick Fox kicked off our new series, Hope & Healing, inviting us to reflect on what God is doing in our church and wrestle honestly with the space between faith, disappointment, and trust. Faith isn’t certainty—it’s trusting God even when outcomes don’t match our expectations.

Jesus’ ministry showed us the rhythm of the Kingdom: teaching truth, proclaiming good news, and healing the sick. He didn’t just talk about hope—He lived it. And now, that same mission is ours: to bring His compassion and healing into the world around us.

This message is both an invitation and a challenge: don’t make your faith smaller or safer. Step into obedience, even when the outcome is uncertain, and pray with honesty: “I believe—help my unbelief.”

About Genesis Costa Mesa We are a Jesus-centered community shaped by the table, worship, prayer, story, and mission. Our mission is to bring the gospel to the nations, raise up leaders, and plant new Jesus-communities—living as the church both locally and globally. We hold fast to Scripture, the presence of the Spirit, and the call to join God’s work of renewal in the world.

Learn more at genesiscostamesa.com

Merry Christmas, Genesis 🤍 Our next gathering will be in the new year on January 4th. Be sure to follow along on social media for updates, and check out our refreshed website for what’s ahead. We’re grateful for this season and excited for a new year with you all.

We are a Jesus-centered community shaped by the table, worship, prayer, story, and mission—seeking to live as the church together for the renewal of the world.

Learn more at genesiscostamesa.com

In this Advent message, Hannah reflects on peace as God’s gracious response to human fear. From the garden, where humanity hides in shame, to the prophets who proclaim good news, Scripture reveals a God who seeks us out, covers our vulnerability, and draws near with mercy. Peace is not something we manufacture—it is something we receive as God comes near.

Hannah also invites us to reconsider one of our most beloved Advent songs, Silent Night. What if the “silence” was not the quiet absence of noise, but the silencing of fear? In the birth of Jesus, the deepest anxieties of the world are met not with calm circumstances, but with the presence of a Savior. The night may not have been still, but fear no longer had the final word.

Through the promises of Isaiah and the story of Zechariah and Elizabeth, we see that God’s peace unfolds through covenant faithfulness and redemption. The angel’s words—“Do not be afraid”—echo across generations, pointing to a salvation that shines light into darkness and guides our feet into the way of peace.

Scripture & Themes 📖 Scripture: Genesis 3:7–10, 21; Isaiah 52:7; Isaiah 11:5–9; Luke 1:5–25, 67–79 ✨ Themes: Peace, fear and hope, God’s presence, Advent, salvation

About Genesis Costa Mesa: We are a Jesus-centered community shaped by the table, worship, prayer, story, and mission. Together we seek to bring the gospel to the nations, raise up leaders, and plant new Jesus-communities—living as the church both locally and globally. We hold fast to Scripture, the presence of the Spirit, and the call to join God’s work of renewal in the world. Learn more at: https://www.genesiscostamesa.com/

This Sunday we hosted an Apprentice Sunday where we give opportunities to rising young leaders a chance to lead in our Sunday space, this week Judah and Tyler from Biola gave a wonderful sermon on Joy. Judah and Tyler opened our Advent season by leading us into the deep joy found in Christ. As part of our Apprentice Sunday, we created space for the youth of our church to step into their gifts, offering them the opportunity to learn, serve, and lead. Together, they guided us into the heart of Advent—beginning where Scripture begins: with good news of great joy.

Rooted in Luke 2:8–14, they reminded us that joy is not grounded in circumstance but in the unchanging character of God. Joy comes from the safety, freedom, and hope found in a Savior who stepped into our world and into our story.

Judah and Tyler walked us through: 1. The history and meaning of Advent—a season of waiting, hope, and preparation. 2. The good news of great joy—announced to shepherds and offered to all people. 3. The joyful anticipation of His second coming—living in the tension of “already and not yet.”

They also shared three practices that help us cultivate joy in everyday life: Walk by the Spirit (Gal. 5:16–25) Choose joy (Phil. 4:4) Suffer well (James 1:2–4)

As we step into this season, we begin with joy—the kind that anchors us, strengthens us, and draws us deeper into the story of Jesus.

📖 Scripture: Luke 2:8–14; Galatians 5:16–25; Philippians 4:4; James 1:2–4 ✨ Themes: Joy in Christ, Advent, life in the Spirit, choosing joy, enduring through trial

About Genesis Costa Mesa We are a Jesus-centered community shaped by the table, worship, prayer, story, and mission. Together we seek to bring the gospel to the nations, raise up leaders, and plant new Jesus-communities—living as the church both locally and globally. We hold fast to Scripture, the presence of the Spirit, and the call to join God’s work of renewal in the world.

Learn more at: genesiscostamesa.com

But instead of despair, this chapter gives us a sobering and timely reminder: the work God is doing in us is ongoing, sacred, and deeply dependent on His presence. The story calls us to become a people formed by practices that keep our hearts anchored to Him.

Chris walked us through six defining cultures of a faithful people:

1. A Culture of Biblical Priority — the people rediscover the Book of Moses (vv. 1–3)

2. A Culture of Radicalism — Nehemiah clears the temple with fierce conviction (vv. 4–9)

3. A Culture of Generosity — refusing to neglect the house of God (vv. 10–14)

4. A Culture of Worship — reclaiming Sabbath as trust, rest, and remembrance (vv. 15–22)

5. A Culture of Community — choosing covenant faithfulness over compromise (vv. 23–29)

6. A Culture of Assignment — every person stepping into the work God gives (v. 30)

📖 Scripture: Nehemiah 13 ✨ Themes: Renewal, holiness, cultural formation, spiritual drift, sacred assignment

We are a Jesus-centered community shaped by the table, worship, prayer, story, and mission. Together we seek to bring the gospel to the nations, raise up leaders, and plant new Jesus-communities—living as the church both locally and globally. We hold fast to Scripture, the presence of the Spirit, and the call to join God’s work of renewal in the world.

Learn more at: genesiscostamesa.com

Through Scripture, church tradition, and prophetic warnings, we’re invited to see how easily the human heart drifts toward forgetfulness and self-reliance. From Hosea to Deuteronomy to Psalms, the story is the same: when God blesses us, we’re tempted to forget Him. Yet the call of Nehemiah 12 is a return—a recommitment to worship, holiness, and generosity as practices that realign our souls to God.

This week was a sober but hope-filled reminder: renewal begins when worship is restored, when idolatry is confronted, and when our offerings flow from a heart wholly belonging to God.

📖 Scripture: Nehemiah 12; Hosea 13; Deuteronomy 8 & 31; Psalm 81 ✨ Themes: Renewal, worship, holiness, generosity, returning to God

About Genesis Costa Mesa: We are a Jesus-centered community shaped by the table, worship, prayer, story, and mission. Together we seek to bring the gospel to the nations, raise up leaders, and plant new Jesus-communities—living as the church both locally and globally. We hold fast to Scripture, the presence of the Spirit, and the call to join God’s work of renewal in the world.

Learn more at: genesiscostamesa.com

Nehemiah reminds us:

• We find God in confession — where our hearts are revealed and met with grace.

• We find God in freedom — remembering the One who delivers and sustains.

• We find God in the wilderness — even when we forget, resist, or wander.

• We find God in blessing — receiving provision we did not earn.

• We find God in rebellion — because He is the God who does not abandon His people.

“But in Your great mercy You did not put an end to them or abandon them…” (Nehemiah 9:31)

This is our foundation: a God who is mighty, merciful, and committed to dwelling with His people.

📖 Scripture: Nehemiah 9 ✨ Themes: God’s faithfulness, remembering our story, transformation of the heart

We are a Jesus-centered community shaped by the table, worship, prayer, story, and mission. We seek to bring the gospel to the nations, raise up leaders, and plant new Jesus-communities—living as the church locally and globally. We hold fast to Scripture, the presence of the Spirit, and God’s work of renewal in the world.

Learn more → https://www.genesiscostamesa.com

Nehemiah isn’t ultimately about leadership strategies or personal self-rebuild. It is the story of a God who refuses to give up on dwelling with His people. Israel rebuilt the temple, rebuilt the walls, and returned home — but the presence of God did not yet return. Their hearts still needed to be made new.

This chapter points forward to the moment when “the Word became flesh and tabernacled among us” (John 1:14) — Jesus Himself, the true presence of God dwelling with His people. And now, through the Holy Spirit, we are the temple — the dwelling place of God.

The invitation for us today: “Holy Spirit, renew my heart. Make me a home for Your presence.”

📖 Scripture: Nehemiah 8; John 1:14; Jeremiah 31; Zechariah 2 ✨ Themes: The presence of God, new hearts, longing & fulfillment, the Spirit dwelling in us

We are a Jesus-centered community shaped by the table, worship, prayer, story, and mission. Together we seek to bring the gospel to the nations, raise up leaders, and plant new Jesus-communities—living as the church both locally and globally. We hold fast to Scripture, the presence of the Spirit, and the call to join God’s work of renewal in the world.

Learn more at: https://www.genesiscostamesa.com

📖 Scripture: Nehemiah 6 ✨ Themes: Resisting distraction, standing firm in calling, perseverance in faith

We are a Jesus-centered community shaped by the table, worship, prayer, story, and mission. Together we seek to bring the gospel to the nations, raise up leaders, and plant new Jesus-communities—living as the church both locally and globally. We hold fast to Scripture, the presence of the Spirit, and the call to join God’s work of renewal in the world.

Learn more at: genesiscostamesa.com

Nehemiah 5 is a chapter of great hope—an invitation to become a people at peace, rooted not in circumstance but in Christ Himself.

📖 Scripture: Nehemiah 5 🗓 Series: Nehemiah – Rebuilding Together 🔔 Follow our Conversations series on YouTube and your favorite podcast apps.

About Genesis Costa Mesa We are a Jesus-centered community shaped by the table, worship, prayer, story, and mission. Together we seek to bring the gospel to the nations, raise up leaders, and plant new Jesus-communities—living as the church both locally and globally. We hold fast to Scripture, the presence of the Spirit, and the call to join God’s work of renewal in the world.

Learn more at: genesiscostamesa.com

Chris challenged us to imagine what our church might look like if each of us carried the same resilient heart for God’s Spirit—pushing through fear, doubt, and imposter syndrome to pursue the sacred assignments before us. True human flourishing isn’t found in chasing happiness, success, or security, but in remembering the Lord and trusting that He is leading us toward victory.

📖 Scripture: Nehemiah 4 🗓 Series: Nehemiah – Building Through Opposition 🔔 Follow our Conversations series on YouTube and your favorite podcast apps.

About Genesis Costa Mesa: We are a Jesus-centered community shaped by the table, worship, prayer, story, and mission. Together we seek to bring the gospel to the nations, raise up leaders, and plant new Jesus-communities—living as the church both locally and globally. We hold fast to Scripture, the presence of the Spirit, and the call to join God’s work of renewal in the world.

Learn more at: genesiscostamesa.com

At Genesis, we are a Jesus-centered community shaped by the table, worship, prayer, story, and mission. Our heart is to bring the gospel to the nations, raise up leaders, and plant new Jesus-communities—living as the church both locally and globally.

📖 Scripture: Nehemiah 3 ▶️ Follow our "A Sacred Assignment - Nehemiah series on YouTube and your favorite podcast apps.

🗓 Week 9: Nehemiah – Rebuilding Together 📖 Scripture: Nehemiah 2:11–20 🔔 Follow along with the Nehemiah series under the Conversations tab

About Genesis Costa Mesa We are a Jesus-centered community shaped by the table, worship, prayer, story, and mission. Together we seek to bring the gospel to the nations, raise up leaders, and plant new Jesus-communities—living as the church both locally and globally. We hold fast to Scripture, the presence of the Spirit, and the call to join God’s work of renewal in the world.

Learn more at: genesiscostamesa.com

In Nehemiah 2, we see a man facing his greatest fears, carrying the weight of God’s calling, and stepping into opposition while holding on to God’s strength. From Nehemiah’s courage before the king, to the reminder that “the joy of the Lord is your strength” (Neh. 8:10), we are invited to see how God’s assignments for our lives carry both challenge and purpose.

📖 Scripture: Nehemiah 2, Nehemiah 6, Galatians 1, Nehemiah 8 🔔 Follow along with the Nehemiah series under the Conversations tab

📖 Scripture: Nehemiah 1:1–11 ✨ Themes: God’s providence in our placement, finding purpose in inconvenience, trusting His bigger plan

We hold onto the promise of Isaiah 54:2: “Enlarge the place of your tent, stretch your tent curtains wide, do not hold back; lengthen your cords, strengthen your stakes.” We believe God is calling us to expand and prepare for the future He has in store.

🗓 A new chapter is beginning 📖 Scripture: Isaiah 54:2 🔔 Stay tuned for details and ways to join us in this move

🗓 Week 8: Prophecy 📖 Scripture: 1 Corinthians 14:1, 14:39–40 🔔 Follow along with our Summer of Simplicity series under the Conversations tab

🗓 Week 7: Prophecy 📖 Scripture: 1 Corinthians 14, Jeremiah 1, Joel 2, Psalm 105 + more 🔔 Follow along with our Summer of Simplicity series under the Conversations tab

🗓 Week 6: The Scriptures (Part 2) 🎙 Panel led by Daena Dooley 🔔 Follow along with our Summer of Simplicity series under the Conversations tab

🗓 Week 5: The Scriptures 📖 Scripture: Exodus 17 & 24 🔔 Follow along—next week, we’ll explore practical ways to engage the Bible in everyday life as we continue our Summer of Simplicity series under the Conversations tab

🗓 Week 4: Worship Panel 🎙 Guests: Stu, Danea, and Tyler 🔔 Follow along—next week, we dive into the theology of the Bible as we continue our Summer of Simplicity series under the Conversations tab

🗓 Week 3: Worship 📖 Scripture: 2 Samuel 6:16–19 🔔 Follow along with our Summer of Simplicity series under the Conversations tab

Midweek Engagement Opportunities:

1. Prayer walk with a friend

2. 3x a day prayer (breakfast, lunch, dinner)

3. Table Community: Pray through the Lords prayer line by line

Week 2: The Lord's Prayer with Terry Fouche

Topics: The Lord’s Prayer, Breath Prayers, Memorizing Scripture, Daily Prayer Habits

Follow along with our Summer of Simplicity series under the Conversations tab

Week 1: Prayer Subscribe to follow the full Summer of Simplicity series Topics coming up: Scripture, Worship, Prophecy

At the end of this gathering, we were able to annouced that our community has given over $100,000 for our 1st ever Celebrate Generosity.

We are so astonished and beyond proud of our community. A group of mostly college students and early 20-30 year olds rallying together to bless others. Every dollar of that money will be sent out from us to non-profits and church plants around the World. Below is a list of where the money will be going specifically going for Celebrate Generosity.

LOCAL:

• Love Costa Mesa
• NorthEast of the Well (Costa Mesa)
• Wilson St. Learning Center (Costa Mesa)
• Jesse’s House (Orange)

GLOBAL:

• Voices of Hope
• Zoe International
• Rainbow Orphanage (Sri Lanka)
• Hansen Family (Middle East)

CHURCH PLANT

• Vivified Church (Kenneth & Chisom in Nigeria)

To safeguard the confidentiality of individuals in vulnerable regions, we have omitted this section of the message. Below is a list with general locations of the people we will partner with.

LOCAL: -Love Costa Mesa -NorthEast of the Well (Costa Mesa) -Wilson St. Learning Center (Costa Mesa) -Jesse’s House (Orange)

GLOBAL: -Voices of Hope  -Zoe International -Rainbow Orphanage (Sri Lanka) -Hansen Family (Middle East)

CHURCH PLANT -Vivified Church (Kenneth & Chisom in Nigeria)

The concept of Celebrate Generosity, which we will practice on March 2nd this year, has been a practice Anthem Church in Thousand Oaks has been doing for the last 15+ years.

On the first Sunday of March we will have what we are calling Celebrate Generosity, where every donation given will go out of our community. 

In this Sunday conversation Chris gives us an overview of 2nd Cor 9:5-15

PS: We did unfortantly have a technical error with our camera this weekend so there will be no video for this conversation.