Jesus demonstrated this kingdom by healing the sick, casting out demons, forgiving sins, and teaching with authority–showing His power over every part of life. Humanity was created to represent God but turned toward its own kingdoms instead. Jesus came to defeat evil, restore humanity, and invite people back into God’s kingdom.

Because His kingdom is now and near, the invitation is clear: “Repent of your sins and believe the Good News.”

Mark opens boldly: Jesus is “the Messiah, the Son of God.” But as the story unfolds, we see that He is not the kind of Messiah people expected. He teaches with authority, performs miracles, forgives sins, and draws crowds. But instead of presenting a conquering king, Mark shows us a Savior who embraces suffering, rejection, and the cross.

Mark structures his Gospel in three movements:

• Growing excitement and crowds in Galilee
• A turning point where Jesus redefines what “Messiah” means
• The road to Jerusalem, where He fulfills His mission through sacrifice

What makes Mark unique is how honest he is about the disciples’ failures and struggles. They misunderstand Jesus. They argue. They fall asleep. They deny Him. They run away. And the Gospel ends abruptly without neat resolution…because it leaves the decision to us.

Why? Because Mark leaves the question open for us: Will we follow a Messiah who calls us to cross-shaped, self-sacrificial love?

It’s not too late to follow!

Drawing from Hebrews 10, Terrence reminded us that perseverance in faith is not an individual pursuit. We are called to encourage one another, hold fast to hope, and resist the temptation to drift. Gathering on Sundays isn’t just a habit…it’s how God sustains us. It reminds us that darkness hasn’t won, our hope is alive, and we belong to something eternal.

Sunday worship anchors us in hope, strengthens our endurance, and calls us back into God’s bigger story. May we continue to abide in Christ, not alone, but together.

Today marks the launch of our 42-Day Lent Rule of Life, a church-wide journey designed to help us intentionally abide in Christ together.

Throughout Lent, we’re inviting you to step into a simple daily rhythm–putting each spiritual discipline into practice together:

Monday – Fasting

Tuesday – Confession

Wednesday – Gratitude

Thursday – Generosity

Friday – Celebration

Saturday – Rest

Sunday – Church Gathering

To guide us, we’ve created a Rule of Life Journal to help you reflect and stay engaged each day. We’re also continuing our Bible Before Phone daily devotion that aligns with each day’s practice.

To download the Rule of Life Journal, visit necchurch.org/resources.

To join our Bible Before Phone, text "Bible" to 833-275-2412.

Our heart is for the entire church to participate. These practices are not about adding pressure to your schedule; they’re about creating space for God to shape us. We believe that leaning into these 42 days will deepen your connection with God, increase your joy, strengthen your mental and spiritual health, and draw us closer together as a church family.

Even when the practices feel simple or repetitive, we trust that the Holy Spirit will meet you in fresh and meaningful ways each day. Let’s lean in together and allow this Lent season to shape us into a more mature, unified body of Christ.

Terrence acknowledges what we all feel…exhaustion. Whether from work, parenting, driving, lack of sleep, constant news, or simply trying to keep up with life, there is a collective weariness in our culture. While some fatigue is unavoidable, much of it stems from our own striving.

We often live like “little gods,” trying to control outcomes and earn our value. In that mindset, rest becomes optional instead of essential.

Hebrews 4 reminds us that God’s rest is still available today. True rest begins with faith–trusting God’s promises and His faithfulness. Like Israel, we miss rest when we choose unbelief. But God’s invitation still stands: “Today.”

In a culture that glorifies hustle, Scripture teaches that rest is entered, not earned. It is a gift made possible through Christ’s finished work. We don’t achieve it, we enter it by surrendering self-reliance, approval-seeking, and control.

The gospel is not only our hope for eternity; it is our invitation to experience Christ’s rest today.

Will you enter it?

Celebration is not a distraction from faith but a vital expression of it. Scripture shows that God is not opposed to joyful celebration, He initiates it, commands it, and participates in it.

Tyler’s message traces celebration through the biblical story:

• Creation: God celebrates His work, repeatedly calling it “good” and “very good,” and then rests in delight.
• Old Testament: Celebration erupts after deliverance (the Exodus), during worship (temple dedication), and in personal devotion (David dancing before the Lord). Even God’s law included a “festival tithe,” where people were commanded to eat, drink, and celebrate in God’s presence.
• Jesus: Contrary to common depictions of Jesus as somber, the Gospels show Him as someone who feasted, attended parties, and was criticized for it. His first miracle, turning water into wine at a wedding, reveals that celebration is central to the new covenant and tied to relationship with Him, not just ritual.
• Early Church: The first Christians regularly gathered around meals marked by joy, generosity, and praise. Celebration was woven into their worship and community life.

Christian celebration is not about indulgence for its own sake, but about honoring God as the giver of every good gift. Ultimately, the message encourages the church to embrace celebration as a spiritual rhythm, reminding us that joy is meant to be a defining mark of life with Christ, not an occasional exception.

By the end of the week, believers are encouraged to a practical challenge to celebrate God over a meal by (1) enjoying good food and drink, (2) sharing it with fellow believers, and (3) inviting someone they normally wouldn’t—reflecting Jesus’ inclusive table.

There’s a moment in Scripture where a woman’s life is remembered… not by her words, but by her actions and the needs she quietly met. Her generosity was steady, personal, and practical. When she died, the community gathered not with words, but with tangible evidence of her impact. Her name was Tabitha.

Biblical generosity is more than giving money, it is a way of life that powerfully reflects Jesus to the world. The story of Tabitha in Acts 9 highlights how every day, faithful generosity can transform communities and draw people to God.

In a world full of outrage, noise, and quick opinions, this sermon invites us back to a simpler, braver calling… To love our neighbors, serve consistently, and to live lives so generous they become an altar for God’s power.

This Thursday, Tyler challenges us to do our part by cultivating habitual, practical, evangelistic generosity, and intentionally building it into our Rule of Life.

To help us discern where God is calling us to live generously here in the ‘Ville, Tyler offers three guiding questions. Answering even one moves you closer to God’s invitation; discovering the overlap of two or three can bring you to the center of His calling for you.

When generosity becomes personal, consistent, and embodied, it doesn’t just meet needs, it tells a story about who God is. How can I bring who I am, and who God created me to be, to bear on the needs and issues in my community?

Habitual Practical Evangelistic Generosity

There was a believer in (Louisville) named_________. They were always doing kind things for others and helping the poor. - Acts 9:36

Generosity:

– What passions are surfacing in you?

– What gifts has God given you?

– What needs are around you?

This week in our Abide series, Terrence focused on abiding in gratitude, anchored in 1 Thessalonians 5:18: “Give thanks in everything, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

Gratitude isn’t just a feeling; it’s a daily practice that keeps us connected to Christ. When we intentionally give thanks, we position our hearts to recognize God’s goodness, even in difficult seasons. We were reminded of four key truths:

Gratitude is a practice to embrace – it sustains us like daily nourishment for the soul.

Gratitude is a resource to use – we give thanks in everything, not for everything, trusting God’s presence in every season.

Gratitude is a call to obedience – it shapes us to be more like Christ and fuels generosity and service.

Gratitude is best for us – it strengthens trust, anchors our hope, and moves our faith beyond transactions into true reliance on God.

This week, we’re encouraged to practice gratitude intentionally. Choose one gratitude practice and set aside time, whether during Bible study, a lunch break, or before bed, to meet with God and thank Him for His faithfulness.

– Gratitude Walk, Gratitude Journal, Gratitude Return, Gratitude Pause, Gratitude Reframe

Let’s be a church that walks daily in gratitude, stays connected to Christ, and reflects His goodness wherever we go.

Rooted in 1 John 1:8–10 and James 5:16, Terrence’s message teaches that confession is not about shame or punishment, but about truth-telling, agreeing with God about our sin so that forgiveness, healing, and life change can take place.

Confession is presented as a personal, communal, and relational practice, essential to spiritual maturity and freedom. Through Scripture, theology, and the example of David’s prayer in Psalm 51, the message shows that honest confession opens the door to restoration, deeper intimacy with God, and authentic community.

Where in your life do you need to bring what’s hidden into the light so God can bring healing and freedom?

This Tuesday, will you practice confession intentionally with us? Trusting that God meets us with mercy, renewal, and joy when we bring our sin fully into the light.

As a church, we are committing to a communal Rule of Life, beginning with daily prayerful engagement with Scripture and limiting our screen intake.

Over the next seven weeks, Tyler and Terrence will introduce seven additional rhythms and restrictions, which we will then practice together during Lent beginning February 23. The first discipline introduced is fasting, defined biblically as abstaining from food. Tyler invited us to fast from everything except water or plain coffee/tea on Monday, January 12, from 7:57 AM to 5:45 PM. If you missed it, we encourage to join in tomorrow or choose another day this week.

Every time you feel hunger, pause to reflect and pray. Ask:

• What does your body, your mind, and your heart hunger for most?
• God, grow my hunger for You.

God meets people where they are, anticipates their weaknesses, and invites them beyond themselves for the sake of His redemptive work. Obedience is not about personal strength but dependence on God.

As we follow Him, obedience leads to deeper trust, endurance, and peace rooted in God’s faithfulness. We are encouraged to say yes to God’s invitations, trust His promises, and take the next faithful step forward.

Great joy is the reward of living for God’s purposes, but suffering is often the cost. As Tyler reminds us, “Don’t live for the trivial. Live for the eternal.” When our lives are anchored in the eternal, joy no longer depends on circumstances, and even suffering becomes purposeful rather than wasted.

→ The Purpose of Curiosity → The Insufficiency of Curiosity → The Joy of Curiosity

Spiritual curiosity is meant to guide us toward Jesus, not keep us wandering. Curiosity may get us close to truth, but only God’s Word can lead us all the way–and true joy comes not from merely knowing about Jesus, but from worshiping Him.

Tyler urged the spiritually curious to take a committed step of faith, specifically through baptism, and reminded us that worship is a God-given “medicine” proven to strengthen mental, emotional, and physical health. Whether you’re a new, wandering, or longtime believer, come to Jesus, receive His joy, and worship freely.

To live in great joy means to live in constant awareness of God’s presence and promises. It’s not about pretending pain doesn’t exist, but about interpreting pain through the lens of God’s unchanging goodness. Gratitude transforms grief into growth, anxiety into adoration, and waiting into worship.

When gratitude anchors a believer’s heart, it reshapes perspective, strengthens faith, and reorients life toward God’s sovereignty. Ultimately, joy is not circumstantial—it’s covenantal. It flows from God’s eternal faithfulness and culminates in the promise of His righteous judgment and eternal reign.

Terrence invited us to a practical gratitude exercise, reflecting on God’s faithfulness in the past, His presence in the present, and His promises for the future, anchoring our joy in a God who is able and will not fail.

Micah 6:8 reveals God’s standard for His people:

• Act Justly — live with integrity, righteousness, and fairness toward others.
• Love Mercy — show compassion and steadfast love, especially toward the vulnerable.
• Walk Humbly with God — reject pride, and live in dependence on God rather than self.

However, Tyler emphasized that Micah 6:8 ultimately exposes our inability to meet this standard on our own. Like Israel, we repeatedly fall short—no matter how disciplined, sincere, or well-intentioned we may be. This is why Micah points us beyond human effort to the coming King, the one born in Bethlehem, whose strength is divine and whose leadership is perfect.

No matter how hard we try, our efforts alone can’t reach God’s summit. We need a Savior who not only shows the way but becomes the way—lifting us, forgiving us, and leading us into the life Micah describes.

Haggai, a post-exilic prophet, was tasked with motivating the Jewish people to rebuild the temple in Jerusalem after returning from Babylonian exile. The people had begun the work but became stagnant due to opposition and fear. Haggai’s message addressed this spiritual stagnation, calling the people to:

1. Restore the presence of God – Recognize that God’s presence is central to life, not just religious ritual.
2. Renew your hope in the future – Trust God’s promises even when the work seems small or slow.
3. Rededicate yourself to holiness – Align hearts with God’s law, ensuring that actions are not corrupted by sin.
4. God will reverse the curse – Obedience and faithfulness allow God to reverse the curse and restore His people.

Tyler highlighted that Haggai’s short, direct mission demonstrates a practical formula to reverse spiritual stagnation, applicable to modern struggles like sin, addiction, depression, or complacency.

This timeless message finds its fulfillment in Jesus, who keeps God’s promises, brings His presence into our lives, and frees us from the power of sin.

Will you invite God to restore your heart, renew hope, and transform your life?

We saw that 2 Corinthians was written amid tension, grief, and misunderstanding between Paul and the believers he loved. Yet, instead of abandoning them, Paul calls the church—and every follower of Jesus—into God’s ongoing work of setting things right in the world.

Paul reminds us that all Christians are ministers, entrusted with God’s reconciling mission: restoring right relationships with God, with one another, and with creation. This ministry often involves both suffering and comfort, hardship and hope, but it is sustained by God’s Spirit and the strength of community. Paul’s call to generosity, unity, and care for the poor reflects that reconciliation is not just spiritual—it’s tangible, lived out through compassion, justice, and openhanded love.

Ultimately, 2 Corinthians invites us to join God in His redemptive work—to be people who heal, restore, and bring peace wherever brokenness remains.

Rooted in Proverbs 4:20–27, Terrence challenges us to embrace God’s Word, guard our hearts diligently, and make faithfulness our first priority. Spiritual growth, he reminds us, doesn’t come from external success or emotional moments, but from attentiveness to Scripture, intentional holiness, and daily obedience. As a church, we’re called to ensure that our Godly ambition never outruns our Godly dependence—grounding every effort in love for Christ and submission to His Word.

Ultimately, the call is clear: do the next faithful thing. Live a life marked by integrity, repentance, and steadfast devotion.

Drawing from the Book of Acts, Tyler challenged us to embrace four spiritual principles:

1. Community-minded self-sacrificial generosity
2. Earth-Shaking World-Waking Prayer
3. Boundary-Crossing Missional Hunger
4. A Spectacular Move of the Spirit of God

This is the heartbeat of The Next Ten — a decade that won’t be defined by what we built, but by who was changed.

Northeast didn’t just raise money — it raised up disciples. It didn’t just expand property — it expanded the Kingdom. It didn’t just build buildings — it built bridges.

“You can’t force the Spirit of God to spark revival — but you can lay down dry wood, put kindling on top, and pray that the Lord sends the fire.”

For nearly 50 years, Northeast has seen God move through ordinary people who gave sacrificially, building a community where God’s grace is free and lives are transformed. Now, we’re stepping into the next 10 years with bold faith—planting new churches, expanding outreach, and creating spaces to serve a growing community.

The challenge is big, but God’s call is clear: give, grow, and go. Like Bartimaeus, let’s cry out, “Lord, don’t pass me by!” Let’s be the generation that invests in eternity, trusting God to multiply our efforts for the sake of future generations.

He highlighted three key reasons behind this initiative: our neighborhood’s rapid growth, increasing diversity, and the proven impact of outreach through sports. We also heard Jason Shreve’s powerful story of how a church gym changed his life, illustrating how sports and community can open doors to faith and belonging.

Tyler emphasizes that our greatest calling is to invest in the next generation, citing encouraging trends of spiritual revival among young people. Let’s pray, serve, and give together to shape the future of our city and unleash the love of Jesus in powerful ways.

Jesus shows us that love isn’t passive—it’s creative, costly, deep, and sometimes uncomfortable—but it is always our calling. As a church, we’re stepping boldly into partnerships with the "church. at Bashford Manor" and their five immigrant congregations, living out the Great Commission and the Great Commandment: loving God, loving our neighbors, and serving the least among us.

The invitation is clear and urgent: join God where He is already at work, live faithfully as Kingdom people, and let your love shine as a public witness of Christ’s transforming power.

Will you join us in this prayer?

"God, whatever You are doing in this season, don’t do it without us."

Rooted in the Great Commission and anchored in Jesus’ promise from Matthew 16—‘I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it’—we are reminded that church planting is central to the mission of making disciples and carrying the hope of Jesus into the world.

God has opened the door through a partnership with Barrett Traditional Middle School, where Northeast will both renovate the facility and launch a new campus to unleash the love of Jesus in that community. This vision will take every person’s time, talent, and treasure—moving us from spectators to contributors. But we must also remain watchful against the barriers that can hold the church back: religiosity, complacency, and offense. Instead, we are called to live unleashed, breaking through the gates of hell with the hope of the gospel.

Will you step into the story God is writing—so that future generations will look back and see how God built His church through our obedience today?

Now, it’s time to take the vision even further. For the next 10 years, we are stepping into three bold new initiatives:

• Build a multipurpose outreach center on our Brownsboro campus
• Plant a new campus in Central Louisville.
• Start a Love the ‘Ville Hub for immigrants.

Our LTV Missiology

The Love the 'Ville Lifestyle–We unleash Jesus' love - every day, everybody, everywhere. In the home, workplace, school, city, and church.

5 Founding Principles of Love the ’Ville:

1. Making a Difference Locally – Staying rooted in Louisville, knowing our neighbors by name, and meeting real needs close to home.
2. Identifying the Real Needs of Our City – Not assuming but listening. We learn from principals, nonprofit leaders, and longtime residents. Instead of saying “Here’s what we do,” we ask, “How can we help?”
3. Empowering the Best Partners – Supporting the strongest nonprofits, schools, and churches for greater, lasting impact.
4. Redefining Church – Reshape how people see church: not political, not detached, but a shining light pointing to Jesus. Love the ‘Ville is intentionally rooted in the church. By staying connected to Matthew 5:14–16, the movement exists to be salt and light, showing good deeds so that people give glory to God, not to human institutions.
5. Doing This for the Long Haul – We’re in it for the long run. God blesses longevity, and we are committed to faithful service in our city.

We also heard Mike’s powerful testimony of how God brought him from darkness and despair into light and hope. His story is proof that no matter how far you feel from God, transformation is possible when you put your trust in Christ.

The good news is simple yet life–changing: “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16)

After meeting Jesus, they discovered hope, freedom, and a new sense of purpose they never imagined possible. We began this journey with the story of the woman at the well in John 4. She came to draw water in the heat of the day, hiding from the eyes of others. Her life up to that point had been marked by rejection, failed relationships, and a deep thirst for something more. But then she met Jesus.

In one conversation, He spoke to the deepest parts of her heart. He knew her story — every detail — and instead of turning away, He offered her living water. Her shame was replaced with boldness. Her emptiness overflowed with joy. And she ran back to her village to tell everyone about the man who had changed everything.

Her before was brokenness.

Her after was transformation. 

Through the first ten years, we have unleashed Jesus’ love in stunning and spectacular ways. We have seen thousands of people serving tens of thousands of hours and giving millions of dollars to the most impactful nonprofits, most pressing needs, and most vital institutions in the city. Our neighbors are better off because of us. Thousands have come to know Jesus' love through us.

Jesus is why! You are the how!

But we’re just getting started. In this message, Tyler casts vision for the future—a citywide expansion of Love the ‘Ville. We’ll sustain what we’ve already built and launch three big new initiatives that will take this movement to the next level.

Listen to the message to hear the full vision for The Next Ten and learn how you can be part of what’s next. 

In this episode, Terrence, Lindsay, and Corbin explore what it means to “get worship wrong,” focusing on how worship can become misaligned when it centers on performance, personal validation, or emotion rather than authentic adoration of God. The team shares stories of humorous worship fails and challenges the church to move beyond autopilot, urging self-audit, vulnerability, and intentionality in worship both corporately and personally.

Whether struggling with shame, burnout, or disappointment, listeners are reminded that true worship begins in identity—that Jesus rejoices over us, and from that place, we can offer Him worship that echoes Heaven.

“Worship is seeing what God is worth and giving Him what He’s worth.”

Not what you think He wants, not what culture expects, but what He actually deserves.

In this series, we’re diving into the heart of worship—exploring how God is calling us, as a church, to deepen our worship culture, make it more centered on Him, and align more fully with His purpose for our lives and community.

This episode serves as companion content for our church’s three-week worship series, Echo. Our hope is that it encourages you to engage more deeply, reflect more intentionally, and grow spiritually as we walk together in this season of worship.

Worship should echo heaven — meaning our lives here on earth are meant to reflect and magnify God's glory. Terrence reminded us that all of life is worship. Whether we realize it or not, everything we say and do either reflects or distorts God’s image.

The way we worship — at home, at work, in traffic, or in trials — declares something to the world. And when we choose to live a life of worship, God meets us not just with strength, but with peace.

When our worship is reactive, reflective, and missional, it transforms lives.

When our lives are grounded in worship, we experience peace — a desperately needed resource in today’s chaotic world. By fixing our minds on the throne of God and offering worship through every act, we join the eternal song of heaven and radiate hope into every area of life.

Despite cultural narratives that suggest otherwise—particularly around adolescence when parental influence appears to wane—the data clearly contradicts the myth that “peer influence outpaces parent influence.” While peers do play a role, nothing surpasses parental modeling and engagement.

Tyler also previewed 10 research-backed practices for effective spiritual formation in families, including: authoritative parenting (high warmth and structure), involved fathers, mentoring networks (5:1 ratio), strong marriages, emotionally affirming homes, visible parental faith, and critical early college support. Crucially, he warned against passing down a “Christianized American dream” instead of gospel-centered theology.

Finally, Tyler reframed children’s ministry—not as babysitting, but as frontline Great Commission work. He closed with a challenge for all adults—parents, grandparents, and mentors—to embrace their sacred role in forming the faith of the next generation.

• Christian Truth #1: Jesus is the Exclusive Way to Salvation

• Christian Truth #2: Jesus Calls His Followers to Exclusive Relationship

• Christian Truth #3: Jesus Honors Our Choices and Excludes Those Who Reject Him

Terrence challenges us to resist cultural trends toward universalism and diluted faith, urging full commitment even when it leads to discomfort or conflict. Biblical references, such as John 14:6 and Luke 14:26, underscore the gravity and clarity of Jesus’s claims. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a radical re-centering of faith, elevating Jesus to the singular authority in one’s life. Believers are exhorted to evangelize boldly, pray fervently for loved ones, and stand firm in truth, even when it costs them relationships or comfort. We live in a world obsessed with inclusivity. Everyone is encouraged to find “their own truth,” and any claim to exclusivity is labeled intolerant. Yet Christianity makes exactly such a claim: Jesus is the only way to God. That belief, long central to the faith, is increasingly challenged both inside and outside the church. His message responds with urgency: if believers don’t have clarity, how can they share the gospel with conviction? The message’s aim is to anchor biblical truth in an age of relativism. As the series closes, believers are urged to resist the cultural urge to trade doctrinal clarity for comfort.

Christianity has always been controversial—and always will be. True compassion is not enabling falsehood but offering truth in love. Jesus Himself warned that following Him would cause division, even within families (Matthew 10:34–39).

“When truth feels costly, resist trading clarity for comfort. Instead, embrace faithfulness—led by compassion.”

Diversity, equity, and inclusion are central to God’s redemptive story. The Christian vision doesn’t conform to political ideologies; it transcends them—anchoring these values in the identity and mission of Jesus. In a polarized world, the Church is called not to echo partisan extremes, but to reflect the truth and love of God’s Word.

Rather than avoiding hard conversations or allowing secular institutions to shape the narrative, Tyler challenged us to lead with grace and conviction. The Church must be a beacon of unity, a community marked not by division, but by the reconciling power of the gospel.

Modesty and moderation are controversial, not necessarily in culture, but within the church due to a decline in discipleship and pursuit of holiness. The Christian call isn’t to earn grace, but to abide in it through intentional, Spirit-led transformation. Terrence’s message balances challenge with compassion, acknowledging past church wounds while calling for renewed pursuit of holiness through love, not legalism.

“He must increase, but I must decrease.” - John 3:30

This short but powerful statement encapsulates the heartbeat of Christian discipleship. Whether we’re talking about sexuality, personal behavior, finances, or lifestyle, the ultimate aim is for Christ to be magnified in every aspect of our lives, and for our self-centered impulses to surrender to His will.

While the statement itself may not sound controversial, living it out certainly is—because it challenges our desire for self-elevation, comfort, and control. Discipleship isn’t just about belief—it’s about transformation, and that transformation requires wrestling with hard truths and inviting Jesus into every hidden corner of our lives.

Scriptural Foundation: 2 Peter 1:1–10

This passage calls believers to supplement their faith with a list of virtues (goodness, knowledge, self-control, endurance, godliness, affection, and love). Peter urges Christians to confirm their calling by living fruitful, purposeful lives. These virtues aren’t just moral checklists—they’re evidence of a life rooted in Christ and empowered by the Holy Spirit.

Peter’s letter was written to help the church persevere—first against persecution, and later against false teaching and spiritual laziness. His words are a reminder: we already have everything we need to live godly lives. The Holy Spirit, God’s Word, the community of faith—these are tools at our disposal. Now it’s on us to build the house—to add rooms of character, virtue, and maturity onto the foundation of faith.

Ask the Holy Spirit daily: “Where, God?” – Where are you calling me to grow?

He closes with a prayer by Saint Augustine, asking the Holy Spirit to breathe into every area of life and draw us deeper into God’s holy purposes.

“Breathe in me, O Holy Spirit, that my thoughts may be holy. Act in me, O Holy Spirit, that my work may be holy. Draw my heart, O Holy Spirit, to love what is holy.”

Two foundational convictions of the church:

1. God’s Word speaks to all controversial topics.
2. The church must model healthier conversations on divisive matters.

The core theme of Tyler’s message is how to hold to biblical truth while engaging with love, especially on issues of sexuality, gender, and identity.

Seven Key Positions

1. Anything less than compassion is not Christian.
2. All Christians are sexually broken, regardless of orientation.
3. Identity is rooted in Christ, not sexuality.
4. Marriage includes gender difference, as designed in Genesis.
5. Sex belongs inside lifelong male-female covenant.
6. Bible consistently prohibits same-sex sexual acts.
7. Global Christian consensus affirms the traditional view across cultures and centuries.

Ultimately, Tyler’s message calls for a church that is both unflinching in its doctrine and radically welcoming in its love, emphasizing that truth without love is damaging, and love without truth is misleading. The final appeal is to reflect Jesus’s example: one of conviction without condemnation and love without compromise.

In this sermon, Tyler speaks about the cultural tensions surrounding gender identity. He unpacks the Church's responsibility to navigate these conflicts with a balanced posture of obedience, empathy, and belonging, recognizing that we are all image bearers in need of Jesus. At Northeast, our heart is to disciple all image bearers. We are called to be generous with our love while holding fast to biblical truth and the historic Christian ethic regarding gender and identity.

*Anything less than compassionate is not Christian.

*Every person is sexually broken.

*We embrace our bodies as God created them at birth and learn to live faithfully within them.

*Our identity begins in Christ.

Furthermore, we also examine the Church’s failure to reflect and lament on how we’ve responded to those struggling with gender dysphoria. The Church is called to be a safe place—a community that helps carry burdens. Tyler addresses the rapid cultural shifts that have intensified the conversation around transgender identity. Cultural "wars" often result in casualties.

Let's be a light in the midst of it all.

All truth without compassion, and all compassion without truth, fall short of the way of Jesus. In the realm of human sexuality, religious leaders have historically leaned toward shame and judgment. Yet, Jesus offered protection, moral direction that led to freedom, and the power of choice, without condemnation.

We are all image bearers. There is no moral high ground. We stand equal at the foot of the cross.

Let us receive Jesus.

Imagine yourself at the end of your life, looking back. How would you finish this sentence: “I wish I had spent more time…”?

Are we investing in relationships, faith, and character, or are we distracted by temporary pursuits? Author Dallas Willard reminds us: "The main thing God gets out of your life is the person you become."

It’s not about our resume or achievements but about our inner transformation and faithfulness.

Life is a construction project of the soul. Every day, every choice, and every thought lays a brick in the house we live in. We are called to build with care, using the precious materials of love, joy, and peace, grounded on the unshakable foundation of Jesus Christ.

As you navigate the challenges and blessings of life, choose to build a house that will stand the test of time and reflect God’s glory. Invest in your character, nurture your faith, and create a legacy of kindness and humility.

Wherever you are in life, it’s never too late to start building right. Let this be your prayer:

“Lord, build your character in me. May my life be a house of gold, silver, and precious stones, standing firm on the foundation of Jesus Christ.”

May your house be a place of hope, love, and joy for all who enter—and a testament to a life well-lived.

Midlife—a season full of transitions, challenges, and profound opportunities for growth. Whether you're just stepping into midlife or well into your journey, Tyler’s message offers encouragement, insight, and a fresh perspective on how to navigate this pivotal stage with purpose and joy.

How can you begin this transformational journey today?

Here are some practical steps to take toward a proper midlife crisis:

1. Embrace Your Identity as a Citizen of Heaven: Let go of worldly validations and find your worth in your relationship with God.
2. Shift Your Motivation: Move from pursuing material success to seeking moral growth and meaningful impact.
3. Focus on Relationships: Invest deeply in family, friends, and community as your true legacy.
4. Surrender to God’s Guidance: Allow the Holy Spirit to lead you through this season with faith and hope.
5. Seek Support and Community: Midlife can be lonely, but you don’t have to walk it alone. Find people who will journey with you.

What if the stirring you feel in your heart right now is not accidental, but a spiritual invitation? What if midlife is the Holy Spirit’s way of waking you up to a deeper reality?

This message is a call to all midlifers: have a proper midlife crisis—one that leads to renewal, purpose, and joy in Christ.

Skip the despair and the foolish attempts to relive youth. Instead, choose to climb the second mountain. Surrender your heart to Jesus, embrace your heavenly citizenship, and refocus your life on loving others and living out your God-given purpose.

Whether you are beginning this journey or well along the way, know that God’s grace is sufficient. This is your moment to experience the meaning and wonder that midlife can bring.

Drawing from the deep wisdom of Proverbs 2, Tyler emphasizes that God’s guidance is timeless, relevant across generations, and especially vital for young adults navigating a world of competing voices. While acknowledging the distinct pressures of today—like performance-driven culture, social media comparison, and uncertainty about the future—he reminds us that our most essential spiritual needs haven’t changed: identity, belonging, and direction. God speaks to these needs with clarity, compassion, and power.

His three takeaways are crafted to help listeners live with greater clarity and peace in their current stage of life. This sermon ultimately affirms the spiritual power and potential of young adults in the church and calls them to step confidently into maturity with God as their guide.

The Three Foundational Truths

1. Identity

Tyler teaches that identity is not something we build or earn, but something we receive from God. He challenges cultural narratives that tell young people to define themselves by their careers, image, or achievements—paths that often lead to anxiety, burnout, and confusion.

Your identity is meant to be God-given, not peer-driven or self-determined.

When you embrace your identity in Christ, you gain the security and confidence needed to navigate adulthood with peace.

Who am I?

An adopted child of the Most High God, a royal ambassador, a citizen of heaven.

What am I worth?

You are created in God’s image and worth Jesus’ very life.

Why am I here?

To bring a revolution of counter-cultural, cross-shaped love and resurrection life.

Identity, Tyler reminds us, is rooted in divine truth, not cultural pressure or personal performance.

“You are not the sum total of your accomplishments or your failures. You are a child of God, made in His image.”

2. Friendship

Tyler then turns to the power of relationships, warning that the people closest to us can either draw us nearer to God or lead us away from Him. He expands this beyond romantic relationships, focusing on friendships and community.

He distinguishes between proximity and intimacy: not everyone physically or emotionally close to you should be spiritually close to your heart. Your inner circle should be made up of people who are pursuing Christ alongside you.

You need Godly friends, but you must work harder than ever to have them.

Building meaningful, Christ-centered friendships requires intention, vulnerability, and shared spiritual goals.

3. Purpose

Finally, Tyler addresses the deep question of purpose—a major point of confusion and longing among young adults. He dismantles the cultural lie that purpose is about personal fulfillment or worldly success and re-centers it on serving God and others.

Spiritual growth comes not from upward mobility, but from downward humility—willingness to serve, forgive, sacrifice, and love as Christ did.

Tyler paints a vision of purpose shaped by Jesus: one of service, love, sacrifice, and discipleship. He encourages young adults to move from asking, “What do I want to do with my life?” to “What has God equipped me to give to the world?”

Despite all the noise and challenges of this generation, Tyler sees hope: a spiritual hunger and potential for revival.

Despite whatever flaws, there is a supernatural resurgence of belief in Jesus among young adults… right now! You may be the revival generation!

A Spiritual Call to Action

Tyler closes with a powerful challenge for young adults to live with intention and depth:

1. Pursue wisdom with intentionality—through prayer, scripture, and Godly community.
2. Reject the cultural lies about self-sufficiency and redefine success on God’s terms.
3. Trust God’s voice above all others—including societal expectations and inner fears.

He acknowledges the emotional weight young adults carry—loneliness, doubts, cultural disillusionment—but reminds them that they are uniquely equipped to lead, love, and spark change. When rooted in God’s truth, they can walk into adulthood with confidence, purpose, and peace.

He calls each generation — from youth to elders — to embrace their role in God's Kingdom, highlighting both the strengths and challenges of today’s youth.

His message centers around the critical call for youth and all generations to "Get Wisdom and Get Understanding".

🙌 Every generation matters: No one is too young or too old for God’s Kingdom — everyone has purpose.

🔥 Life is hard but God is good: Emphasizes perseverance through trials, supported by God's unwavering presence.

Will you persevere faithfully in an often-broken world?

Drawing on Luke 24, Tyler illustrates how the tomb is not only historically empty but spiritually potent. He contrasts Jesus’s inner strength with cultural volatility and emphasizes that followers of Jesus can access this same resurrection power through the Holy Spirit.

The resurrection unleashed power from heaven into the world. The same power that raised Jesus is accessible now through the Holy Spirit. Drawing from Ephesians 1:19–20, Tyler’s message emphasizes that the resurrection is not just historical—it’s personal and transformational.

However, this power is “already but not yet”:

• Present in part, but not fully realized.
• It provides strength, peace, and healing now—but perfection is still to come.

This message isn’t just about history or theology—it’s a heartfelt cry for people to wake up and realize what’s available to them. Resurrection power isn’t abstract. It’s for now. It’s for you. And it’s ready to flow through every believer who says yes.

Will you root your life in something unshakeable? Jesus alone lives up to the hype—and His resurrection offers power, joy, peace, forgiveness, and purpose.

The power that raised Jesus is available today—and it’s up to each person to say yes.

He is risen.

Indeed, He is.

Jesus’s surrender wasn’t a sign of weakness; it was a demonstration of purpose. He chose the path of submission not out of helplessness, but to fulfill His mission—displaying divine power even in apparent defeat. Tyler makes a poignant comparison between Jesus and Peter. While Jesus stood strong under trial, Peter denied even knowing Him. Three times. To strangers. Around a fire. This comparison hits hard. It convicts us—but it also comforts. Because while Peter faltered, Jesus never did.

And here lies the beauty of the Gospel: Jesus knew Peter would fail. And He loved him anyway. This reminds us that integrity isn’t about perfection—it’s about the alignment of our actions with our values. Peter stumbled, but Jesus remained faithful.

So, trust Jesus—not because of religion, tradition, or obligation, but because of who He is. He can withstand your doubts, your questions, your wrestling, your scrutiny. Put Him on trial, and you’ll find someone worth following— not because He demands obedience, but because He wins hearts. Will you test Him for yourself—and let His steady, trustworthy character draw you to faith and reflection?

“Does your faith cost only Jesus something—or does it cost you something too?”

Tyler emphasizes that following Jesus involves sacrifice, not just salvation. Drawing from Luke 14 and Matthew 26, his message calls believers to "count the cost" of discipleship—bearing one’s cross and surrendering fully, as Jesus did in Gethsemane. The garden scene reveals the depth of Christ’s emotional and spiritual pain before the crucifixion—and how, even in that distress, he chose God’s will over his own.

Gethsemane reminds us: Jesus didn’t want to suffer—but he chose to. Christianity is not about convenience or comfort—it’s about cruciform obedience. Discipleship is painful. It calls us to be present, to sacrifice, and to keep watch, even when we’d rather sleep.

Are we awake to our spiritual lives? Do we follow Jesus when it hurts—or only when it helps?

This Easter season, Tyler invites us to sit in the weight of Gethsemane, not rush past it to Easter Sunday. Because there is no resurrection without death. No glory without surrender.

Terrence kicked off the series, Real, compelling us to have earnest imitation - to live our lives differently because of Jesus! To hold string to our church community, groups, and brothers and sisters in faith in the midst of our struggles and challenges. How do we emulate Jesus through how we love one another?

1. Restructuring Our Lives – Lean into God’s grace and His word to guide transformation, allowing humility and flexibility to navigate challenges.

2. Persevering in Our New Identity – Stay committed despite setbacks, recognizing that obstacles are opportunities for growth.

3. Stewarding Our Lives for God’s Glory – Reflect your devotion to God in how you manage your time, resources, and relationships.

4. Devotion as the Secret Sauce – Like an athlete training for a race (1 Cor. 9:24-27), devotion fuels the journey through discipline and self-control.

To help us embrace a life of devotion and overcome sin, Terrence introduced a framework that has been helpful in his own journey: head, heart, and hands. Each step we take should consider these three areas of our lives.

• Head – Let grace reshape your thoughts and mindset.

• Heart – Let eternal hope motivate your actions and decisions.

• Hands – Implement intentional structure and accountability in daily life.

As we navigate our path forward, let us remember that healing is available. Whether you are dealing with past trauma or stubborn habits, God wants to heal you. Your story doesn’t have to remain the same forever. Embrace your identity as a chosen child of God, loved unconditionally and called to a purpose.

He challenges believers to stop ignoring their own sins and take personal responsibility through confession and repentance. It offers practical steps for confession and urges people to embrace God’s grace rather than hide behind self-righteousness.

Confession is not a burden—it is the gateway to freedom. It is the key to breaking free from sin’s hold and living a transformed life through Jesus Christ.

Repentance leads to freedom—it’s not about guilt or shame but about transformation and renewal in God’s love. While confession is the act of admitting wrongdoing, repentance goes deeper—it is a commitment to real change. True repentance not only acknowledges sin but also turns away from it, leading to lasting spiritual growth.

Without genuine repentance, confession alone can become empty. It may provide temporary relief from guilt, but it won’t prevent the same mistakes from happening again.

“So, you also should consider yourselves to be dead to the power of sin and alive to God through Christ Jesus. Do not let sin control the way you live; do not give in to sinful desires.”

The message outlines a nine-step process for overcoming sin, based on the G4 counseling model, which many churches use to help people break free from sinful patterns. The sermon covers the first three steps, focusing on the mindset and posture that may prevent believers from taking them.

Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 "Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind. For God will bring every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing whether it is good or evil." 

Damian explains that to fear God is really to respect Him. He helps us understand why we respect God by providing three key points.

1. God is your creator. He is omnipotent and all-powerful in your trials and difficulties.
2. God knows all. He is omniscient and has all knowledge in the midst of chaos. God makes sense of the chaos. In the midst of your chaos, He knows, and He provides peace. 
3. God is everywhere at the same time, always present. So, in the midst of catastrophe, pray when the pain intensifies because God is there. God is your creator, in full control, fighting on your behalf. 

Damian compels us to understand and prioritize God in our lives, respecting Him and His commandments because He chose you. The master of who we are is our measure to love through the difficulties of this life. And this leads to the one last point: be in awe of God. 

This week’s sermon is part five of Vapor, a six-week series on Ecclesiastes exploring its timeless wisdom and the reality that life is fleeting—like vapor—without God at the center.

Tyler dives into Ecclesiastes’ urgent message: the importance of seeking God while young. No matter how young you are, you need God now. Everything else—wealth, pleasure, status—is meaningless apart from Him.

While Ecclesiastes paints a bleak picture of life without God, Christianity offers hope beyond suffering. Tyler presents three key truths that separate a Christian worldview from an atheistic one:

1. God Suffers With Us

2. God is Working Against Evil

3. There Will Be Final Judgment and Justice

Ecclesiastes is honest about suffering, but Christianity offers a way to deal with it. Without God, suffering is meaningless. With God, suffering is part of a redemptive story.

~ Jesus entered suffering to show us that God cares.

~ Evil is not from God, but He is actively working against it.

~ Final judgment ensures that every wrong will be made right. ~ Christian hope is stronger than secular despair.

~ You can trade a worldview of indifference for one of purpose, love, and eternity.

1. Timing of Enjoyment: The time to enjoy life is now, not when circumstances are perfect. Everyday moments—like a warm coffee or a shared meal—are gifts from God meant to be cherished.
2. Mindset of Enjoyment: Adopting a mindset of gratitude rather than entitlement helps us appreciate life’s blessings. Shifting focus from what we lack to what we have transforms envy into gratitude and discontentment into contentment.
3. Surprise of Enjoyment: Enjoyment is a divine command. God desires our joy, as seen in Jesus' celebratory spirit during His life.
4. Method of Enjoyment: True enjoyment requires discipline and self-control, ensuring it remains an act of worship that honors God.

Call to Joy: Embrace simple, daily joys as gifts of grace through practices like gratitude journaling, shared meals, or quiet reflection. These moments bring meaning to our lives and reflect heaven on earth. Join us for more profound wisdom in the Vapor series as we explore life’s fleeting yet meaningful moments.

In Ecclesiastes, Solomon presents a worldview "under the sun," where life is seen purely through a materialistic lens — as if everything that can be perceived with our senses is all that exists. This perspective aligns with atheism, which dismisses any spiritual dimension, and agnosticism, which questions whether the spiritual realm even matters. Ecclesiastes argues that this view, when fully embraced, leads to meaninglessness and despair. The pursuit of wealth, pleasure, or success ultimately feels empty because, in this worldview, there is no ultimate purpose or divine order behind it all.

However, Ecclesiastes invites us to adopt a different perspective: the "over the sun" worldview. This view looks beyond the material world to a higher reality where God exists, governs, and gives life meaning. By using apologetics — the defense and rational justification of faith — we can see that the "over the sun" perspective offers a deeper, more coherent understanding of life’s purpose. This view challenges the "under the sun" mindset with answers to some of life’s most fundamental questions:

• Purpose: Life isn’t random or accidental; it’s part of God’s intentional design.
• Value: Every human being has intrinsic value, created in the image of a loving and purposeful God.
• Morality: Objective moral standards exist, grounded in the character of a just and holy God.
• Love: We are made to love because we are loved by a God who is love itself.
• Hope: Death is not the end, and there is a final reckoning — a divine justice and the promise of eternal life beyond the grave.

Where do you stand in this debate of worldviews? Is your perspective shaped more by what’s "under the sun," dismissing the possibility of God or any deeper meaning? Do you find it easy to devalue those you disagree with or shift your values based on circumstance? Do you struggle to hope for a future that goes beyond what you can see and touch?

Using apologetics, we can see that the "under the sun" worldview doesn’t offer a satisfying or sustainable answer to these questions. But the "over the sun" perspective, rooted in God’s revealed truth, gives us a foundation that brings meaning, purpose, and hope — even in the midst of life’s challenges.

Take time to reflect and pray. Ask God to show you where you might be living under the sun instead of embracing the deeper reality of life over the sun.

Ecclesiastes repeatedly reminds us that life under the sun—pursuits of wealth, pleasure, and achievement—is like a vapor, fleeting and ultimately unsatisfying without God. It offers hope, emphasizing the importance of fearing God, obeying His commands, and remembering the certainty of judgment. With Jesus, judgment transforms from fear to comfort, offering eternal hope and the assurance of a meaningful life both now and forever.

“Everything is meaningless,” says the Teacher, “completely meaningless!” What do people get for all their hard work under the sun? - Ecclesiastes 1:2-3

That’s the whole story. Here now is my final conclusion: Fear God and obey his commands, for this is everyone’s duty. God will judge us for everything we do, including every secret thing, whether good or bad. - Ecclesiastes 12:13-14

Tyler challenged us to reflect on whether our lives are aligned with God’s eternal purpose or caught up in temporary, worldly pursuits.

He emphasizes the transformative power of spiritual exploration, urging us to embrace Jesus and experience the joy, peace, and eternal life found in Him. Drawing from C.S. Lewis, the message reveals how drawing closer to divine truth can bring profound and lasting change.

In a world where materialism and atheism often fail to satisfy our deepest emotional and existential needs, spiritual curiosity is growing. Through personal stories, cultural reflections, and theological insights, Tyler underscores Christianity’s enduring relevance in addressing life’s most pressing questions.

This is an invitation to embark on a journey of hope, meaning, and transformation. As we take up this challenge, we are reminded that God meets us where we are, guiding us toward the abundant life He promises.

"God showed how much he loved us by sending his one and only Son into the world so that we might have eternal life through him. This is real love—not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins." – 1 John 4:9-10

This week, Terrence leads us in a message focused on the Gospel over Grief. Grief is often associated with the loss of a loved one but can take on many forms of loss - a job, a house, a divorce, a dream, and other forms. At these times, we are called to lean into loss and walk through this with Jesus. In this world, you will have trouble, but take heart. You will be heartbroken, and you will face challenges, but there is one who will journey with you through them. In these moments, Terrence encourages us to go to God, saying, " Reconcile me and use me today. I am confident that you will find a way for me in the future."

Hand over your pain. Psalm 25:8 shows the heart of God. He is big enough. We worship Him because he became a man who knew suffering and rose again so that we might find peace in an anxious world. May your struggles keep you near the cross, and may your bad days prove that God is good. May your whole life prove that God is good.

The pervasive issue of "meh"—emotional apathy or languishing—has become one of today’s significant spiritual challenges, alongside a broader lack of purpose. While the holiday season is culturally celebrated as a time of joy, it often amplifies feelings of emptiness, as many find themselves overwhelmed by distractions and trivialities.

However, the message of Jesus's birth reveals a deeper truth: true meaning is found in sacrificial love for God and others. By embracing God’s purpose and living with intentionality and sacrifice, we can counter apathy and discover lasting peace and joy.

This Christmas, let us look beyond the noise and busyness of the season, rediscovering the hope and purpose that come through the birth of Christ.

Jesus gave up the treasures of heaven to make you His treasure.

What you need is not simply to resist money, what you need is to replace it entirely as the source of your deepest desires. When you see God dying to make you His treasure, money will cease to be the currency of your significance, or your security, or your comfort. When you grasp the gospel, money loses its grasp over you. So, think on His costly grace, and it'll change you into a giver.

"You know the generous grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. Though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that by his poverty he could make you rich." - 2 Corinthians 8:9

As we approach Christmas, Tyler challenged us to reflect deeply on our lives, embrace faith, and consider baptism as a step toward regeneration and healing. He reminded us that rediscovering Jesus as the heart of Christmas offers lasting joy, purpose, and hope.

The true essence of Christmas lies in the transformative power of the Gospel—a gift that renews our hearts and minds and points us to the ultimate source of peace in an anxious world.

As the last book of the Old Testament, Malachi is often referred to as "God’s last word before Christmas." Tyler unpacked its rich historical context and themes, drawing meaningful connections between the Israelites’ struggles and our own lives today. He reminded us that waiting is not passive but a hopeful and faith-filled act of trust in God’s plan.

Just as the Israelites waited for the Messiah, Christians today wait for Christ’s return. This waiting isn’t passive—it’s an active expression of hope, trust, and perseverance.

Malachi’s message challenges us to examine our faith, rekindle our hope, and prepare our hearts for God’s ongoing work in our lives. For believers, it’s a call to renew our patience and trust in God’s plan. For those who are seeking or uncertain, it’s an invitation to faith—a reminder of life’s uncertainties and the importance of spiritual reconciliation.

As we wait for Christ’s return, may we hold fast to the lessons of Malachi, embracing hope and trusting in God’s faithfulness, just as the Israelites did before the fulfillment of God’s greatest promise.

It provides foundational insights into God’s character and His plan for humanity, underscoring the weight of sin, the necessity of atonement, and the beauty of holiness.

In Jesus, the principles of Leviticus find their perfect expression, enabling believers to live as priests and a holy nation. This message challenges Christians to embrace their priestly role, showcasing God’s glory in a world desperate for hope and light.

Let’s focus on unity in Christ above political differences, reminding Christians of God’s sovereignty over human history.

Jesus is King!

By having a renewed dedication to building a friendship with the Holy Spirit, intimacy with God is possible through partnership, availability, and openness.

When you make yourself available to the Holy Spirit, you make yourself available to the goodness and promises of God. So, would you be willing and available to open yourself to the Holy Spirit and simply say have your way?

Our light is our witness to a better, more beautiful, more fitting way of life for the many lost, suffering, and searching for love, peace, and identity. Today, the cultural assumption is that truth is subjective, so they need to understand the heart aspect first. Show them the goodness of Jesus first, then they will believe.

And hear this church, public witness is a team sport. The more lamps shining, the more hospitable the city. Our willingness to trust in God is a declaration: "So may your light be good, before others, glorifying God, a city of light to the world in the darkness." 

Check out our videos to learn more about us, or visit us at necchurch.org. Follow us on Facebook: @NECChurch and Instagram: @northeast.church

Believers are urged to examine their faithfulness by reflecting on whether they are letting distractions or life's challenges hinder their spiritual growth. True faithfulness involves honesty about one's condition, holding onto God's truth through trials, and enduring the cost of following Jesus. Faithful Christians prioritize God's will over worldly concerns, aligning their emotions and actions with Jesus' teachings.

He challenged us to live out our faith through perseverance, joyful obedience, and submission to God’s will. Practical steps to cultivate faithfulness include surrounding oneself with a community of believers, being honest about personal sins, and focusing on Jesus as the ultimate source of hope. Terrence asked us to examine ourselves, ensuring that our faith is rooted, active, and bearing fruit for God's kingdom.

Like Esther, we live in a superpower country. And like Esther, we are each called by God to lead in times such as these. There is a purpose far bigger than we could imagine on our own. God is always speaking to us through the power of the Holy Spirit. Let's find God in the coincidences of our world and look forward to where God is leading us.

Tyler encouraged us to turn away from political idolatry and place our faith in Jesus, who fulfills God's promises and establishes an everlasting kingdom. Drawing theological lessons from the historical narrative, he examines key moments, including Solomon’s disobedience, the divided monarchy, and the role of prophets like Elijah and Elisha. Ultimately, the message is that while human leaders will always fail, the hope of salvation lies in Christ, the King of Kings. Today, will you turn away from political idolatry and place your faith in Jesus, the King of Kings?

Hebrews stands out as a profound book, delving into themes of faith, suffering, and the nature of Jesus Christ. Central to its message is the powerful affirmation of Jesus' supremacy. The author of Hebrews carefully compares Jesus to key figures in Jewish tradition—not to diminish their importance, but to emphasize that Jesus is the ultimate fulfillment of God’s revelation. He is presented as both fully divine and fully human, uniquely capable of understanding our struggles.

For believers who are weary or disillusioned, Hebrews offers a message of hope. It reassures us that Jesus, in His divinity and humanity, knows our trials intimately and is ever-present to help. We are reminded that we do not walk this journey alone; our faith is strengthened in community as we support one another while keeping our eyes on Christ.

Above all, Hebrews calls us to persevere, even when life feels disorienting. It encourages us to hold fast to our faith, knowing that Jesus is with us every step of the way, offering His strength and understanding.

"When life is disorienting, don’t give up on your faith."

Let's be a church that fosters genuine community for our kids and teaches them about their identity in Christ. Let's work to combat what is stealing hope and joy from our kids and set boundaries to protect them. Let's pass down a faith that sustains them for a lifetime.

To discover the parent resources for this series, be sure to visit necchurch.org/resources/

Parenting is a significant responsibility that shapes the future of children, influencing not only their character but also their faith. The "Intentional Parenting" sermon series is designed to equip Christian parents with the tools and strategies necessary to raise their children in a faith-centered home. By adopting the authoritative parenting style, engaging in daily faith conversations, and maintaining a united, faith-centered marriage, parents can effectively pass down their beliefs and prepare their children for a life rooted in faith.

So, what is your vision for your kids? If it’s not centered on Him, it’s too small to carry them through this life. If you give them Jesus, no matter where the road leads—you can rest assured knowing that He will be with them. And there’s no one better to walk beside them than our King Jesus.

Train children to live the right way, and when they are old, they will not stray from it. - Proverbs 22:6

In today's message, Tyler focuses on the biggest influence on our kids today. Guess what, parents? It's you! Research indicates that the best predictor of what any American religious life will be like in adulthood is how their parents held their religious beliefs while raising them. The power of parental influence has remained stable since the 1970s; however, there has been a decline in religiosity among American Christians. In this message, we will examine how parents can use their influence to develop faith in their kids that will sustain them for a lifetime. Be sure to check out the parent resource tool to audit your parenting skills and help you understand how you can nurture faith with your kids.

Find the resource tool on our resource webpage necchurch.org

Ultimately, our goal is to reflect the love of Christ in all that we do, creating a positive impact within our communities and beyond. Together, we can survive and thrive in this election year, guided by our faith and commitment to one another.

Politics and personal relationships can be tricky, but this message encourages Christians to prioritize their faith and unity in Christ over political affiliations. By doing so, the church can maintain its unity and purpose despite the political turbulence. The call to action is clear: Christians should engage in politics without losing sight of their spiritual mission and shared identity in Christ. Through worship, mission work, and personal healing, the church can remain a united and strong witness to the world.

This week, Tyler urged us as Christians to engage in politics with a measured allegiance to human government, a legal responsibility to love neighbor, an unwavering belief in human dignity, a realistic assessment of human depravity, an uncompromising moral compass, and a fearless hope in Jesus. Emphasizing the need for prayer, revival, and a transformative approach to political engagement that reflects the values of the Kingdom of God.

Survival Guide 2024

“Above all, [we will] live as citizens of heaven, conducting [ourselves] in a manner worthy of the Good News about Christ.”

Philippians 1:27-30

Above all, you must live as citizens of heaven, conducting yourselves in a manner worthy of the Good News about Christ. Then, whether I come and see you again or only hear about you, I will know that you are standing together with one spirit and one purpose, fighting together for the faith, which is the Good News. Don’t be intimidated in any way by your enemies. This will be a sign to them that they are going to be destroyed, but that you are going to be saved, even by God himself. For you have been given not only the privilege of trusting in Christ but also the privilege of suffering for him. We are in this struggle together. You have seen my struggle in the past, and you know that I am still in the midst of it.

“Accept the call to be a prepared witness for Jesus.... willing to use words…right where God has you.”

As Christians, we are called to embody two essential roles:

* Evangelist: Those who share the good news of Jesus and the Christian faith.

* Apologist: Those who defend and explain the truth of Jesus and the Christian faith.

When we defend and explain the truth of the Christian faith, remember that our posture matters because we are sharing "good news." Ask yourself if you are abiding in Christ before you speak, be intent on listening, and know your story. You can always use Terrence's C.S.I. method—calm conversation, simple questions, and in-context scriptures—to help you through difficult conversations. Through prayer, understanding, and practical application, the church can fulfill its mission to make disciples of all nations.

Terrence recommended other resources to help us better understand how to witness effectively. You can find it here:  https://www.necchurch.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/How-to-be-a-witmess-week-3-slidespdf.pdf

In Acts 1:7-8 and Matthew 28:19-20, Jesus commands us to make disciples and be witnesses of His teachings.

Living a life dedicated to Christ can be uncomfortable and challenging with an internal war between the call of Christ and the call of personal desires, emotions, and the pursuit of a comfortable life. But, through prayer and reliance on the Holy Spirit, you can receive the strength and guidance to empower you in Christ’s mission to share the gospel.

We have been strategically placed to be a light in the darkness and guide others toward Jesus. Will you seize everyday opportunities to share your faith right where you are?

Your challenge this summer is to get in shape spiritually, mentally, and physically. Check back on July 23rd for the second podcast on Soul Care Made Simple.

Want to learn more about the Summer 60 Challenge? Visit, https://necchurch.churchcenter.com/registrations/events/2336562.

He listed 6 ways men are biblically called to engage:

1. Grow by crucifying our emotions and appetites.

2. Provide for others.

3. Protect the people that matter to them.

4. Lead with character.

5. We restore by bringing life.

6. Stay focused and be determined to avoid distraction.

What can you do to encourage men around you to help align their priorities with God?

1:19 You say you have faith, for you believe that there is one God.[f] Good for you! Even the demons believe this, and they tremble in terror. 20 How foolish! Can’t you see that faith without good deeds is useless?

You’re challenge today is – You have heard from James- now go do!

Want to know God’s opinions on social justice? Look no further than the book of Amos. It’s a harsh book full of warning. God is just. And He links the sins of injustice and oppression with idolatry. This prophetic book is jam-packed with judgments and pleas for Israel, Judah, and the surrounding nations. But, even despite the coming judgment for these unrepentant people, God will remain faithful in the end.

Love The ‘Ville isn’t just a motto – it’s a movement. To Love the ‘Ville means to unleash God’s love into every area of our lives. We started by asking our neighbors, “How can we help?” one Sunday morning, and it has grown into a year-round movement of loving our schools, city, and world!

No matter where you came from, or what your family looks like… your family's pain does not define your future.

If you just choose to believe there is a big family here to hold you up!

The Good News is that the blood of Jesus covers many sins. We are stuck together. Together, we are the family of God.

We hope this challenging series has impacted you personally to reflect on your blessings, acknowledge past hurts, the power of praying over your family, and embrace the spiritual tool of forgiveness and selflessness. And most importantly to embrace your future forever family of God - your church.

This is the 2nd key to unlocking generational change in our family through God’s power.

So, how do you practice this? Gratitude, humility, and intentionality.

You are a better person and a better Christian, when your life is aiming at the harder and more costly things of God.

We don’t earn forgiveness by forgiving others, we prove we’re forgiven when we forgive others.

Christian forgiveness is a loving gift of unearned grace. It does not circumvent social justice or restorative discipline. And it does not destroy the sinner, but rather it seeks to heal and convert the sinner.

The forgiveness of Jesus is better. Before we come to Jesus with a broken heart, fall on our knees and beg, or offer restitution… He’s already paid the debt. In the middle of our sins, Jesus loves us so much that he has already done the work to forgive us before we ask for it.

Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. - 1 Peter 4:8

Family forgiveness is hard, but it’s essential. And by the power of Christ in you, you can forgive.

So, how have God and your parents blessed you? Your challenge this week is the 3 Blessing Exercise. Each day this week, take time to name what we are thankful for. Think about the brokenness in your life and name it. Ask God to turn this brokenness into blessing.

The brokenness I was given was ______ but by the power of Jesus, I want to bring ______.

One of the main points of this weekend is that we cannot overestimate the impact your family of origin has had on who you are. We all have things from our family of origin that can be negative. We also know that we can be the ones to break those cycles with the power of God.

Wisdom is not what you know, it’s what you model.

Mark challenged us to read Proverbs this month and to point out the top 10 Proverbs that you can work on with your family or in your home. Take a moment today to read the Proverbs Resources (https://shorturl.at/CKZ05) that Mark shared and reflect on what you are modeling in your family.

Persevere through your storms.

To persevere through the difficulties in life is a reminder that God is good, his mercy endures, and he is faithful. Damian reminds us that if the problem made it to you, that’s how you know you can endure it. Because God has already tested it, and He proved that you’re able to bear it. So just hold on.

Be proud of who God called you to be. Stay faithful to his word. And don’t let anybody try to disqualify you from walking according to his plan. Because if God called you, he also will perfect you. Patiently wait for him to bring you out of your storm. You just simply have to persevere.

Reconciliation is a state of being. It’s a reality that you live in. It's living in a restored state and renewed practices of relating to one another. It's the sense that reconciliation requires a group of people to embody their shared identity and walk together toward the same goals and outcomes. And that is established through the finished work of Christ.

Jesus says, pick up your cross and follow me. And saying yes to Jesus is crucifying yourself daily for His purposes and His way. There is nothing significant about us except for the cross of Christ. There’s nothing we have to offer or that brings more meaning, purpose, and value to the life of a believer except the cross of Christ. Living in reconciliation with one another is embracing new creation - identity. It’s making much of the cross and little of our preferences, preoccupations, and presumptions.

There is a truth of life that applies in many areas, and that by limiting our freedom we are more free.

We are most free when we are most dead.

Mark highlighted three practices and challenged us to take on one of them this week as a way of combatting the flesh:

Fasting—Skip three meals one day this week. This is a sacrifice of pleasure. This counters the lust of the flesh.

Generosity—give something away that is important to you. This is a sacrifice of material goods. This counters the lust of the eyes. (Story of the Pulpit Commentary)

Service—Dedicate 3 hours of your week to offer a skill you have that you could use to Love the Ville in a tangible way this week. This is a sacrifice of time. This counters the boastful pride of life.

“Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires, and greed, which is idolatry.” - Colossians 3:5

How can we tune into the voice of Holy Spirit so that He will be our guide?

Are you living in an awareness of God’s grace?

We are all guilty of sin and deserving of punishment. We try to justify ourselves but find that we can’t. But we have been justified through faith in Christ. And through faith, Jesus’ perfect righteousness is credited to us. What’s true of Jesus (his crucifixion and resurrection) becomes true of us. Salvation is received, not achieved. We don’t have to prove we’re not bad… we’ve been pardoned. We don’t have to prove we’re special… we’ve been declared righteous. We don’t need to earn peer affirmation… we’ve been given a family.

It’s all GRACE!

We know that a person is justified not by the works of law but through faith in Jesus Christ. – Galatians 2:16

The goal is to better understand the historical circumstances underneath all the doctrine. It turns the book into real life, not just telling you what’s going on, but giving you the story beneath the story.

This letter from Paul to Galatia is a specific vision for a new creation community. He says it's a multi-ethnic, no jew, no gentile, slave or free, male or female. It’s a multiethnic, nonprejudicial, family-like community that's prioritizing faith in Jesus and learning to follow the spirit. Living in the freedom of love, that's safeguarding the integrity of the true gospel, and that is sharing it with everyone, no matter their country, color, class, or culture. Over the next 11 weeks, we’ll spend 9 weeks journeying through the book of Galatians and we hope you’ll join us!

Many of us are trapped in the pursuit of worldly self-fulfillment, but Jesus calls us to deny ourselves and follow Him. God’s way is the best, and without it, our lives will be incomplete. It’s extraordinary to entrust yourself into the hands of God, who created us, knows us better than ourselves, loves us more than we love ourselves, and wants to guide us toward freedom and prosperity. However, we must let go of our old ways of living to experience this new life, which starts with baptism.

We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life. – Romans 6:4

If you’re seeking for someone to heal your heart, guide a lost soul home, or point the way to the path of peace. Jesus can. He is the way, the truth, and the life.

Jesus, and Him alone, is all you need this Christmas. His goodness is endless, it’s eternal. And we pray you find HOPE in him.

“Because of God’s tender mercy, the morning light from heaven is about to break upon us, to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, and to guide us to the path of peace.” – Luke 1:78-79

What does this exactly mean? You will find more peace when you allow God to direct your life and you will find more anxiety when you allow your desires to direct your life. But it’s your choice.

Jesus can lead you to your innermost desires because He will lead you to the way of the cross. And it’s the cross-shaped love of Jesus that sets you free. We don’t have to figure out life on our own. He invites you today to choose His way over your way, just like he did the disciples 2,000 years ago – one step at a time. Just “come and see”.

The ultimate goal of this series is to equip you with the spiritual truths, strategies, and resources to combat the anxiety that many of us are feeling and often becomes intensified during this Christmas season.

Anxiety, depression, and pain are not new; they have been present throughout history, and we can see this in almost every character in the Bible, including Jesus. However, Jesus is the path to peace and victory, not chaos and death. God created you because he wanted you and stamped you with his image. You are not an accident, and even in the midst of sin and rebellion, God still pursues you. Jesus was born to bring peace beyond understanding and courage to overcome your circumstances.

Remember, these words provide not only peace but victory and courage as well. John 16:33 states, “I have told you these things so that in me you may have peace. In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

None of these worldly things have any real power to cure the human heart or heal our sins, but Jesus does.

You must walk out of the darkness into the light if you want to find peace in an anxious world, you must choose confession over concealment. So, where is your darkness? Where is your sin? How can confession become a part of your spiritual journey? Where do you need to start?

When your honesty collides with the mercy of Christ, deliverance happens.

Love the ‘Ville Outreach unleashes the love of Jesus in our city and beyond. We partner with global organizations to empower locals and meet the unique needs of their communities by building sustainable ministries. They show what it means to Love the ‘Ville right where they are. You’re invited to join us. Jesus is Why!

We often come to the Book of Revelation looking for answers about the future or ignore it entirely because it is confusing. Revelation is a blessing for all readers and exists to afflict the comfortable and comfort the afflicted, challenging us to choose a side in the epic battle between good and evil. It is a reminder that God is sovereign and wins in the end. No matter today's struggle, the eternal tomorrow in heaven offers peace. So, don't give in to evil and remain focused on Jesus.

That is a blessing for all who follow Jesus!

Be sure to visit our resource webpage to dig in further into the study of Revelation.

In 1 Corinthians, Paul addresses specific issues the Corinthian church is having and shows them how the Gospel, when properly applied, solves the problem.

Love is the answer.

Love in 1 Corinthians

• I will put your good before my own.
• I will put your flourishing before my freedom.
• I will put your growth before my comfort.
• I will put God’s way before our wants.

This is Biblical love

• Love is self-sacrificial.
• Love is truth.
• Love is unconditional.
• Love is unmerited.
• Love is wise and discerning.
• Love is the power of God.

What are you facing today? Paul says, face it with the Gospel, and you’re going to win. The cross-shaped love of Jesus always wins.

This week, Terrence preached on “Accountability” and how it looks to be accountable for what Christ has called and willed us to be.

Unity of Accountable Community

1. Our relationship with Christ is always in the context of the body of Christ.

2. Our commitment to the Body of Christ is a measure of our commitment to the way of Jesus.

How does confession fit into your current relationship structure? Who are the people that know your struggles? Who are the people that you can count on to keep it confidential but who will take what you say and will go to God interceding on your behalf? Will you be the person who speaks love and truth but also walks alongside someone back to the hands and feet of Jesus?

Your good traits don’t belong to you, but neither does your pain and your struggle. It belongs to the bigger body of Christ.

Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results. - James 5:16

"Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the LORD, and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither— whatever they do prospers." - Psalm 1:1-3

For those of us who place our trust in Jesus, He has given us His Holy Spirit to help. When you limit your life within the will of God and limit your life for the sake of others, you’ll find the peace that you truly desire. His limitations are good and true freedom is found in limitations. Jesus replied, “Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them. - John 14:23

In this sermon, Damian Thompson, Lead Pastor of Emmanuel Baptist Church, shares the story of Jairus & the Bleeding Woman. In this story, two very different people come to Jesus; one a leader with connections and privilege, and the other an outcast labeled by her affliction. But they are united in their need to know Him. He describes how we need to worship Jesus even in our worries and suffering. We need to be patient and ready to witness how God is working in our lives.

In this sermon, our Student Ministry Pastor Jacob Stewart tells the epic story of Elijah along with help from our next generation of students. This is a call to follow God, have resilience in this life, and lead in faith. This weekend we hear from our students about the power of listening to the voice of God. 

In this message, Terrence Turman shares the story of Levi, an enemy to his own people, yet Jesus calls him. Like Levi, we are fully known and seen by God. Jesus calls us to follow Him. Are we ready to stop hiding what Jesus already sees? Are we prepared to discover the purpose that He has for our lives?

Clayten Hentzel joined us from The Crossing Church in Illinois, where is the Lead Pastor of a multisite church that spans 3 states. We are blessed that he spent Father's Day with us and shared this message.

In this message guest speaker Bill McKenzie recounts the story of Lazarus. Jesus is completely God and completely man. He weeps at the death of his friend and also demonstrates new life for those who believe. John 11:25-27. Jesus said to her, " I am the Resurrection and the Life. Whoever believes in Me, though he dies, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in Me shall never die. Do you believe this? "

This Memorial Day Weekend, Jeff Faull kicked off our series with the story of The Woman Caught in Adultery. In this story we see that Jesus offers forgiveness even when others are quick to condemn. But that is not the end of the story. Jesus also offers new life and an opportunity for this woman to change her story forever. 

Check out our videos to learn more about us, or visit us at necchurch.org.

Follow us on Facebook: @NECChurch Instagram: @northeast.church

For more resources to study Exodus & Deuteronomy, please visit www.necchurch.org/resources

"Adam and Eve, you're here! And you're hired!" What a gig! What a grace! All is good in paradise, right? What could go wrong?

Well, apparently ... us.

Turns out this managerial arrangement will serve as the central point of conflict in the plot of the human story. The humans forget they are an image, not Immanuel. We get too big for our britches. We lead above our paygrade. We mistake having the image of God for having the wisdom and foresight of God. And we seize authority rather than trusting that God's way is the best way.

Which begs the question - What is God going to do about it? Will he fire us? Will he give up on the relationship? Not a chance. While sin may win the battle, it will not win the war.

For more resources to study Genesis, please visit https://www.necchurch.org/genesis-resources/

It’s Bible study week! By the end of this message, you will be able to outline this epic book, understand its foundational themes, answer some of the hard questions everyone debates, and find Jesus in its pages. At Northeast, we want our people to know, honor, and read the Bible. That journey starts here in the “Genesis” of everything and everyone.

Visit www.necchurch.org/resources/genesis for more tools to help you study Genesis.

"Relief" makes a difference in communities in the short term by helping provide for immediate physical needs. "Development" takes a long term approach by working to reduce the need for future intervention and aid.

Relief and development mobilize Christians locally and globally to express their concern and compassion in practical ways, such as financially supporting projects or volunteering where help is needed.

Sometimes, a simple food box or a Christmas Gift offered in God's name is worth a thousand sermons on love and compassion. Where some look at the needs and pain in the world with despair or disinterest, Northeast sees tremendous opportunity and privilege to serve the poor, marginalized, and forgotten through both relief and development.

All we do in the ministry of relief and development is for God's glory.

Working with Love the 'Ville outreach Partners, you could help a young woman leave a trafficked life. You could help a person experiencing homelessness leave their addiction and be housed and employed. You can help a refugee family integrate into society.

This is tough work, but the rewards are great.

Visit www.necchurch.org/outreach today to find a place to serve.

This holistic view of ministry changes the way we see individuals and communities. In individuals, we seek to meet both physical and spiritual needs to nourish the body and soul with love and tangible care. In communities, we seek to provide both short term intervention and long term involvement.

This week, we get to hear from a panel of our partners who are passionate about holistic ministry.

Visit www.necchurch.org/outreach to find a place to serve today.

Being made in the image of God means you have inherent worth. It also means you have inherent capacity- abilities, ideas, assets, and solutions.

In all of our Outreach efforts, we seek to define others by this identity of "image bearer". If we define others by their deficiencies or treat them as passive recipients of someone else’s help, it rejects their dignity as image bearers.

"Dignity " means we involve everyone as participants, as equals. If we change our paradigm for understanding poverty from a resources framework to a relational framework, then we will focus on the practice of reconciliation rather than the distribution of resources.

To get involved with Outreach at Northeast, visit the Outreach page at https://www.necchurch.org/outreach/

We'd love to connect you with one of our partners who are making a difference in our community.

We believe sincerity always trumps spectacle, and that unleashing the love of Jesus is most effective in the everyday moments with the people closest to you.

We believe sincerity always trumps spectacle, and that unleashing the love of Jesus is most effective in the everyday moments with the people closest to you.

Week one of "Show + Tell" will encourage you to both show and tell the love of Jesus in small, daily, world-changing ways.

"My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me." John 17:20-21

We want to be a church that leads in facilitating unity among diverse churches in the ‘Ville because, as Jesus said, our unity will be attractive to a divided world.

How does a group of people from all different backgrounds, of all different ages, of all different socio-economic situations, come together as one? Jesus is how.

At Northeast, we want to help you become more like Jesus so you can take his truth, his beauty, and his love into every part of your life. We hope that your investment in your spiritual formation leads you to say, "I have rhythms and restrictions that help me resist popular culture and connect with God." It's our goal to create resources and communities that make spiritual formation a priority for every person who calls Northeast home.

In this message, Tyler shares how we plan to help invest in your spiritual formation in 2023 and beyond.

Visit www.necchurch.org/resources to explore the beginning of our Northeast Resource Library. 

At Northeast, want to be obedient in becoming who we believe the Lord is calling us to be as a church. In this introductory message, Tyler gives an overview of the ten "aspirational vision targets" that we are strategizing towards for the next five years. It's our hope that five years from now, we can look back and see how God has moved in our church and grown us together in these key areas.

Over the course of this series, we will dive deep into five of the ten targets, highlighting one each week.

This week, we're focusing on the first target: "We want to be a congregation who knows, honors, and reads the Bible."

As a parent, you have a role in how these "firsts" contribute to the formation of your child. The experiences they have are largely out of your control, but you can help form them as they slowly become adults who experience life for themselves.

Today, we're thinking through how you can contribute to your child's spiritual formation by discipling them through all the "firsts" along the way.

This week of Intentional Parenting is super practical. Whether you still have kids in your home or not, you'll learn how to catch a vision for intentional parenting, identify your values, and make a plan to help you stay on track.

We've created four worksheets to help you work through this process. Download them through the link below:

https://www.necchurch.org/intentional-parenting-vision-values-plan/

We're spending the next five weeks exploring these questions together.

Even if you aren't a parent, this series is sure to provide practical tools for your spiritual formation.

Fear happens when you feel out of control. So how do you overcome fear? The logical answer may be to seek more control over every little detail of life, micromanaging until there is nothing left to fear. But this "control" is an illusion, and all it takes is one unexpected turn to feel afraid and out of control all over again.

The solution? Be honest about your lack of control and lean in to the grace of "withness" through prayer. Prayer is simply being with God, sharing your unfiltered thoughts with him. If you want to overcome fear and control, you can't do it alone; you must learn the practice of "withness".

When you look at his life and ministry in the gospels, you see that he took the time to be where he was, never rushing himself or his disciples along to the next thing.

In this series, Next Steps, we're looking at five different ways you can "take a step" in your faith. This week, the invitation is to slow down and live your life at the pace Jesus did.

1 John 2:6 says, "Whoever claims to live in him must walk as Jesus walked". If we are going to walk as Jesus walked, we have to match his pace. We're not running, we're not hurrying. We must learn to step BACK and evaluate what matters most, then step forward unhurried and ready to prioritize seeing and loving others like Jesus did.

This week, take the step of daily praying, "God, help me to slow down and walk with you so I can be intentional with what matters most."

The first step to making a change is deciding not to stay where you are. Going to church doesn't make you a disciple of Jesus, but it's a great first step. 1 John 2:6 says, "Whoever claims to live in Him must walk as Jesus walked."

Wherever you find yourself in your spiritual journey, you have a next step. In this new series, we're exploring five steps you can take right now towards being a mature disciple of Jesus.

If you're new to Northeast, your next step is Northeast Basics.

Getting connected in a new church can feel overwhelming, especially in a place the size of Northeast. We’re making it painless for you to take your next step at Northeast with our four week course, Northeast Basics.

Northeast Basics will answer the foundational questions: Who is Northeast? What do we do? How do we do it? How can I help? Northeast Basics is offered every weekend so you can easily hop in when you’re ready to get connected.

Visit necchurch.org/basics to register today.

Richard Stearns, a past president of Parker Brothers and Lenox, Inc., and of World Vision United States, an international Christian relief charity, offers wisdom from his career that will give you practical inspiration to Love the 'Ville in your workplace.

In this series, we’re walking through everyday rhythms to help you live an unhurried life in the Way of Jesus. These rhythms are spiritual practices that invite us to recenter and slow down so that we can live every moment with God.

Today, we're finishing the series with the rhythm of communion. In order to experience the fullness that God intends us to enjoy during communion, we have to step back and remember where the practice originates and why the elements are significant for followers of Jesus.

For more resources to help you create Unhurried Rhythms, visit https://www.necchurch.org/portfolio/rhythms/

The goal is to help you unplug from the voices of this world so you can plug into the voice of God. The hope is to help you rewire your way of life so that you can connect with The Way, The Truth, and The Life.

Today, we want to suggest that there is something truer and better than endless doses of political commentary, News, and Netflix. It's Scripture, and it's the number one best selling book of all time for a reason.

We're looking at a few questions that will help us audit our content consumption, and are encouraged to be formed most of all by the truth of God's Word.

Today we're looking at the contrast between the Bible that people imagine and put at arms length, and the "real Bible" that people of faith experience when we allow Scripture to be what it was intended to be.

How many tasks are on your mind while you also try to read this caption? Are you giving any one thing your full attention? Chances are, you're probably reading this while also attempting to do something else.

Linda Stone, a tech writer and consultant, said that, “Continuous partial attention is our new default setting.” That was in 1998. In the last 20 years, this "continuous partial attention" has only become more partial because of technology.

When "continuous partial attention" is our default, it debilitates our capacity to hear, see, adore, petition, experience, and commune with God, what Christians call prayer.

In this series, Unhurried Rhythms, we’re walking through everyday rhythms to help you live an unhurried life in the Way of Jesus. There is no shortcut to spiritual maturity, but we hope to remove the stumbling blocks of shame and intimidation from practicing spiritual rhythms.

This week, we're taking a practical deep dive into the topic of prayer. You'll learn a few tangible ways to practice prayer, and walk away with the tools to integrate this rhythm into your day.

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Catch up on the rest of the series below:

Week 1- The Way of Deformation: https://youtu.be/vmo56ytyhVY

Additional Resources for this series: https://www.necchurch.org/portfolio/rhythms/

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For more spiritual formation content, follow Northeast Christian Church on social media.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/northeast.church

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NECChurch/

Online: www.necchurch.org

Jesus is God with us, and after a tough year, he is the good news we all need. 

If we look to Scripture, we see that he doesn’t promise us everything we ask for- perfect health, blessing, success, safety, or resolution for all of life’s problems. He promised something better: that every promise HE makes will be “yes and amen” in Christ Jesus (2 Corinthians 1:20).

If we can trust that God keeps every promise he makes, what did God actually promise us? What truth can we place our hope in, and what does it all have to do with Christmas?

This week, we’re looking at the gospel of Matthew’s account of the Christmas story. What promises does God make? Who is it that we worship in Matthew’s story, and how does that change how we live our ordinary days over 2,000 years later?

We believe worship is not just one set-apart hour to sing together on Sunday morning. Worship is when you offer ultimate value to something. As Christians, we worship God alone who was revealed in Jesus, and we do it mostly through ordinary moments in our everyday lives.

To prepare for Christmas, we're walking through a theology of worship that is based on the simple and beautiful truth that God is ALWAYS with us because of Jesus- even in the ordinary moments that fill our days.

Do you maybe even feel that way right now as you're reading this?

These are all signs of burnout.

If God and the people you're closest to feel distant, if you've lost sight of your dreams, or you find yourself a slave to the "urgent" instead of the "important", the way of Jesus offers a better way to live. In Week Four of Let's Talk About Mental Health, we're unpacking what the Bible says about Sabbath and how it can reverse and prevent the effects of burnout.

This might be the message you need to hear today, so take a break and tune in.

After 2020, surely all of us have experienced this kind of challenge to our mental health in one way or another. Pete Scazzerro, author of Emotionally Healthy Spirituality, calls these seasons "Walls". Walls can't be avoided in our broken world, so we must decide how we will respond when they inevitably come. They have the power to damage us emotionally and mentally, but they can also have great power to grow us spiritually.

Rather than accepting secular narratives of karma, illusion, or fate when you feel "stuck" at a wall, we believe the Bible offers a response more hopeful and true. Intimacy with God and surrender to God can carry you through the wall and bring you out the other side with more maturity and wisdom than you had before.

What role does the church have to play in this mental health epidemic?

At Northeast, we believe in a wholistic approach to mental health. Mental health problems are rarely faith problems, but they can have faith solutions. We believe talking about our mental health with one another is vital, and the church should be a place where we share our burdens- not the place we hide them.

So, let's talk about mental health.

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If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please immediately contact a hotline for help:

LOCAL (to Louisville, Kentucky):

Mental Health Crisis Line: 502-589-4313

Seven Counties 24/7 Addiction Help: 502-583-3951

NATIONAL:

Crisis Text Line: HOME to 471-471

Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 800-273-TALK

Veterans Crisis Line: 800-273-8255 press 1

The Trevor Project (24/7 helpline for LGBTQ youth ages 13-24): 866-488-7386

WEB:

NAMI Louisville: www.namilouisville.org

First Hour Grief Response: www.firsthourgrief.org 

We're diving in to the Story of Popular Culture and asking, "Is it a true story? Is there a better story? Is there a story more in tune with reality?"

Do you know what story you're living? Let's unpack it together.

The Bible gives us many examples of real people who brought their doubts, their struggles, and their questions to the Lord. In this message, we're looking at five examples of ways God responded to people who came to him with questions, honesty, and even accusations. How does God respond to them? What might he say to us if we come to him? Let's find out.

We would all like to think that other people or inanimate objects are the ones to blame for our anger, but with a brief survey of Scripture, we see this is simply not the case. Only you can control your anger. So is it worth the fight?

Founding Pastor Bob Cherry offers us six steps to controlling anger. You may be surprised by how simple they are once you really commit to placing your anger in the shadow of the cross.

Richard Mosqueda, our Spiritual Formation Team Lead, is passionate about helping people understand who they are so they can do what they're called to do. What might the Lord be calling you to do so you can unleash the love of Jesus in your workplace?

Guest Speaker, Nicole Unice, joins us this week with a powerful sermon exploring the intersection of Grace & Truth. Can you have one without the other? Are grace and truth like a see-saw that must be balanced, or is it possible to abound in both?

A desire to live FOR God grows from a life spent WITH God. The "Great Commission" to go and make disciples of all nations is not forever. Life with God is. How does this affect our mission to live life on purpose?

One of the most relevant "evangelistic" traits we have is hope. While everyone is distracted, bored, outraged, afraid, lonely, sad, exhausted, and doing all they can to avoid getting old, we bring hope!

In this series, Who we Are, we will celebrate and cast vision for who we are as a church family and a community on mission. At Northeast, we value Love for Neighbor, Faithfulness to Truth, Public Witness, and Missional Intentionality.

What is the biblical vision for neighbor love? Do you truly love your neighbor? Listen to this message for an encouragement and challenge to really commit to loving your neighbor as Jesus does.

It’s socially advantageous and laudable in our culture to seem humanitarian, to have a cause.

But we must ask: Do we like the idea of love more than the act?

We’ve seen that a compassionate church is made through sweaty brows, dirty hands, achy backs, weekly commitments, and inconvenienced schedules. We have to put our money and muscle where our mouth is.

Are we up for the challenge to truly BE the Love the ‘Ville church, and not just applaud the idea of it? In this service, we hear from a panel of our community partners who are committed to loving their city one small act of great love at a time. As you listen, consider how you might follow in their steps to commit to being a doer.

You may bring this cultural imperative to the table when you read the Bible, but it won’t take long to discover that the Bible has a lot to say about money.

The book of Acts is no exception. This week, we’re asking the question, “How should a wealthy church deal with its money?”, and looking for answers in the book of Acts.

In the United States today, we do not live under fascist control or in the thick of genocide, but our country appears to be more polarized and divided than ever.

Do the words of Bonhoeffer deliver any hope for the American church today? And what does the book of Acts have to say about unity among believers? Is Christian unity even possible in our divided country? (Spoiler: we believe it absolutely is. Listen to this week of Acts Verse by Verse to discover how.)

If we are to have significance in this world (instead of just settling for "success"), we must learn to embrace the whole of the Christian love ethic which shows concern and care for every part of the body of Christ.

Guest Speaker, Damian Thompson, continues our series in Acts Verse by Verse with a powerful encouragement to remember that You’re Still Standing.

In Acts 28, Paul the apostle faces personal disappointment and public danger after unexpectedly shipwrecking on the island of Malta. He was bombarded with trial after trial, but remained standing strong in the knowledge that God had a purpose for him.

We’ve all faced trials of different kinds, but if you’re reading this, you are still standing. If your plans have been wrecked, God can still use them to bring forth his purpose.

"Culture War Christianity" is a corruption of our faith because it prioritizes winning over witness, power over piety, protecting the 99 over reaching the 1, and self-preservation over selfless love.

How do we fight these "Culture wars" we hear so much about? If we look at the conversion of Saul found in the book of Acts, we see a cross-shaped alternative to the "culture war" mindset that isn't very war-like at all.

Recent data has shown that political privilege is harmful for Christianity in society. The presence of pluralism and the absence of privilege are actually beneficial for Christianity because it must be chosen for its actual merits and spiritual power, rather than its social merits and political power.

Anytime we look elsewhere for power, it robs the Spirit. You can have the power of politics, or the power of the Spirit, but not both. It's not a matter of whether Christianity has power- it's whether WE will have it.

Why is this the case? Why is the church facing a credibility crisis? How can we overcome the cultural pressure we're facing and model the early church as we see in Acts?

Tyler walks through seven marks of the early church, and how those characteristics allowed them to remain a faithful witness to Jesus amidst persecution.

In this sermon, Tyler walks through the book of Acts to deliver a beautiful, biblical vision for gospel-centered racial and ethnic diversity. Christians have been given the doctrine, power, and commission to build a multi-ethnic family that heals racial and ethnic divides.

It's time to make this vision a reality through the power of the gospel and the Holy Spirit at work within his church.

Join us for week five of our series, From Death to Life, as we develop our theology of the resurrection of Jesus.

We believe this is a healthy and helpful process as long as it has a proper starting point: the resurrection of Jesus.

A confident belief in Jesus’ resurrection makes deconstruction healthier because it gives you the comfort to explore with the assurance of salvation. You can poke, prod, question, and criticize knowing you're safe in the deep acceptance of the Father when you believe Jesus is risen.

With the resurrection as your starting point, you will set out to "deconstruct" with the humility to trust Jesus over self.

Join us for week five of our series, From Death to Life.

Following the living Jesus promises us a way to overcome inevitable suffering because we place our trust in a living hope. Your past (no matter how broken or messy) and your future (no matter how uncertain) can be made whole by the living hope and presence of Jesus. Join us to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus on Easter Sunday!

Most of us would say that we want to have a better prayer life, or we want to read the Bible. We want to make church a weekly habit, join a group, or serve somewhere. We have every good intention to grow in Christ, but that does not make us intentional.

You don’t need good intentions. You need a plan. You need a playbook! This two week sermon series and our accompanying "Love the 'Ville Playbook Devotional" will help you think through the areas in your life: Home, Workplace, Church, and City. This will help you see where and who God is calling you to. You’ll also get a better idea of who you need to serve, pray for, and love on. It’s time to get intentional! Game on!

Check out the 7 day Love the 'Ville Playbook Devotional here! https://www.necchurch.org/playbook-devotional/

Week 3 of our Voices series answers these questions, and offers practical tips for engaging with Scripture to train your mind and transform your heart.

Check out our videos to learn more about us, or visit us at necchurch.org.

Guest preacher, Chris Morgan of the University of Louisville FCA speaks about his struggle with busyness.

God, have mercy on me, for I am a sinner.

Care Pastor Melinda Gividen discusses anger and the ability it has to mess up our lives.

What's on the line when it comes to humility? Our witness and our salvation.

God, have mercy on me for I am a sinner.

Prayer is the best weapon we have to make sure our hearts, minds, lives, relationships, families, churches, politics, morals, and souls are being shaped by God rather than everyone else.

So are you loving? You’ll only know when loving another is hard. Are you faithful? You won’t know until your faith is truly tested.

✅ Racial Injustice

✅ Economic Crash

✅ Political War

There is a lot of pain and suffering right now. This weekend, we discuss it all.

Key verses: Galatians 5:13-15; 2 Timothy 3:1-5

Key Verses: 1 John 4:8-10

Get into a virtual group today: necchurch.org/anywhere

Key Verses: Romans 12; Genesis 2:18

Visit necchurch.org/care

Key Verses: Philippians 4:4-13

Good Friday. Black Saturday. Easter Sunday. This is the gospel.

What do you do when COVID-19 feels more like a tomb than a resurrection?

• Utilize unanticipated margin to pray, study, and rest. 

• Worship in defiance of fear, suffering, and uncertainty.

• Take opportunities to share your hope

• Put your life into the hands of Jesus

• Love your neighbor like Jesus loves you.

ACC Coaches. Bible Scholars. Corporate VPs. Judges. Engineers. Lawyers. COOs. PhDs. We gathered together some of the best leaders in our city to share powerful ideas on how to take your faith to work.

• have integrity in pain and promotion
• serve the people you work with
• operate from "Jesus is why"

• We deny ourselves for the sake of others. • We have a vision beyond the horizon of now. • We acknowledge we are no good without Jesus.

We have more freedom to express ourselves however we feel. But we still aren’t peaceable and united.

Life expectancies are longer, food tastes better, entertainment is on demand, and the world has been flattened and globalized. But we still aren’t content.

There has to be more than this.

Where do you stand on all the issues? Or maybe a better question is this - How do you stand?

One of the rewards of listening is Wisdom, the ability to assess any situation and then make the best decision. But wisdom must be earned.

As we begin a new series, this week we uncover five major cultural shifts that have caused most of our financial stress and the only way to overcome them.