Restoration Church https://restorationlex.podbean.com Sunday Messages Mon, 18 May 2026 09:47:59 -0300 https://podbean.com/?v=5.5 en Copyright 2019 All rights reserved. Religion & Spirituality:Spirituality 1440 episodic Sunday Messages Restoration Church Restoration Church No false https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/image-logo/5084065/circle_logo3_1__7jvje2.png Restoration Church https://restorationlex.podbean.com 144 144 ACTS | The Way Forward: Witnesses ACTS | The Way Forward: Witnesses https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/acts-the-way-forward-witnesses/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/acts-the-way-forward-witnesses/#comments Mon, 18 May 2026 09:47:59 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/ebb890a8-5b9c-3a50-8a9f-a373202b9567 In the aftermath of the resurrection, a small band of disciples are called beyond the borders of their comfort and culture and into the mission of God. Out of this mission, a new kind of family takes root: an eclectic and empowered community called the Church. Together in the power and presence of God, they’d find a new identity and calling: witnesses. (Acts 1:1-11)

]]> In the aftermath of the resurrection, a small band of disciples are called beyond the borders of their comfort and culture and into the mission of God. Out of this mission, a new kind of family takes root: an eclectic and empowered community called the Church. Together in the power and presence of God, they’d find a new identity and calling: witnesses. (Acts 1:1-11)

]]> Restoration Church false No 1761 382 full Eastertide | The God By Your Side Eastertide | The God By Your Side https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/eastertide-the-god-by-your-side/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/eastertide-the-god-by-your-side/#comments Sun, 10 May 2026 16:35:52 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/3d94751e-f02f-3e2c-9fbe-616ace08a7ef Are we left to figure this out on our own? That was the question running through the minds of the disciples in the final hours before the crucifixion – and it’s a question we may have pondered, too. But Jesus gives a promise for the journey ahead: the persistant presence of a God who not only walks with us, but fights for our wholeness. (John 14:15-21)

]]> Are we left to figure this out on our own? That was the question running through the minds of the disciples in the final hours before the crucifixion – and it’s a question we may have pondered, too. But Jesus gives a promise for the journey ahead: the persistant presence of a God who not only walks with us, but fights for our wholeness. (John 14:15-21)

]]> Restoration Church false No 1688 381 full Eastertide | Which Way? Eastertide | Which Way? https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/eastertide-which-way/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/eastertide-which-way/#comments Mon, 04 May 2026 09:18:11 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/91917d46-e164-36bd-b7c3-b82419c4ecc2 In John 14, Jesus makes a clarifying and galvanizing statement: He doesn’t simply have the way or teach the way, that He is the way. Two thousand years later, this invitation to know Him as ‘the way’ is still an invitation into the kind of life and abundance we’ve been promised. The question is this: will we receive it? (John 14:1-14)

]]> In John 14, Jesus makes a clarifying and galvanizing statement: He doesn’t simply have the way or teach the way, that He is the way. Two thousand years later, this invitation to know Him as ‘the way’ is still an invitation into the kind of life and abundance we’ve been promised. The question is this: will we receive it? (John 14:1-14)

]]> Restoration Church false No 1153 380 full Eastertide | The Shepherd's Voice Eastertide | The Shepherd's Voice https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/eastertide-the-shepherds-voice/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/eastertide-the-shepherds-voice/#comments Mon, 27 Apr 2026 09:43:10 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/ddc9e4b4-b1fd-3686-8a21-6deded5fb5fe We are bombarded and frequently overwhelmed on all sides by voices that sound authoritative and compelling – and many of those voices claim to speak on behalf of God. So how do we discern what is genuine? Better yet, how do we hear His voice for ourselves? This weekm we’re talking about what it means hear His voice – as well as unpacking some healthy guardrails for helping us discern together. (John 10:1-10)

]]> We are bombarded and frequently overwhelmed on all sides by voices that sound authoritative and compelling – and many of those voices claim to speak on behalf of God. So how do we discern what is genuine? Better yet, how do we hear His voice for ourselves? This weekm we’re talking about what it means hear His voice – as well as unpacking some healthy guardrails for helping us discern together. (John 10:1-10)

]]> Restoration Church false No 1846 379 full Eastertide | Faith Back From The Dead Eastertide | Faith Back From The Dead https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/eastertide-faith-back-from-the-dead/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/eastertide-faith-back-from-the-dead/#comments Sun, 19 Apr 2026 19:18:14 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/2d6a99a2-bfd5-35a4-9342-aa8b9cf1803f In the early hours of the morning, two disciples leave Jerusalem headed to a small town. In the death of Jesus, they’d lost their friend, their future, and their hope. It was a crisis of faith – a crisis that mirrors the same moments of doubt and disillusionment we so often face. So how can we find our faith again after the ground gives way and our life falls apart? (Luke 24:13-35)

]]> In the early hours of the morning, two disciples leave Jerusalem headed to a small town. In the death of Jesus, they’d lost their friend, their future, and their hope. It was a crisis of faith – a crisis that mirrors the same moments of doubt and disillusionment we so often face. So how can we find our faith again after the ground gives way and our life falls apart? (Luke 24:13-35)

]]> Restoration Church false No 1607 378 full Eastertide | Defiant Joy Eastertide | Defiant Joy https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/eastertide-defiant-joy/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/eastertide-defiant-joy/#comments Sun, 12 Apr 2026 16:01:15 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/7d495ae7-f21a-3d6d-b331-b04270870a23 Easter is not an event. It’s a season – a feast that both celebrates and continues the reality of the resurrection in our ordinary lives. In this second week of Easter, we explore the tension between the hope we profess… and the difficult days we often live through. How can we understand the tension of faith, and in spite of what we see around us, find joy? (1 Peter 1:3-9)

]]> Easter is not an event. It’s a season – a feast that both celebrates and continues the reality of the resurrection in our ordinary lives. In this second week of Easter, we explore the tension between the hope we profess… and the difficult days we often live through. How can we understand the tension of faith, and in spite of what we see around us, find joy? (1 Peter 1:3-9)

]]> Restoration Church false No 1631 377 full Easter Sunday | All Things New Easter Sunday | All Things New https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/easter-sunday-all-things-news/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/easter-sunday-all-things-news/#comments Mon, 06 Apr 2026 10:27:44 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/fd75a582-e088-3926-83e0-ea737c6e5787 The resurrection of Jesus is the turning point of history. So what are we to make of the empty tomb? This week, we’ll explore the scope of God’s renewal that began that first Easter morning – a work that we’re invited to join as a sign of our hope. (John 20:1-18)

]]> The resurrection of Jesus is the turning point of history. So what are we to make of the empty tomb? This week, we’ll explore the scope of God’s renewal that began that first Easter morning – a work that we’re invited to join as a sign of our hope. (John 20:1-18)

]]> Restoration Church false No 1811 376 full Palm Sunday | Follow The Crucified King Palm Sunday | Follow The Crucified King https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/palm-sunday-follow-the-crucified-king-1774827924/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/palm-sunday-follow-the-crucified-king-1774827924/#comments Sun, 29 Mar 2026 20:45:24 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/e85ae1a9-37b4-3f79-b037-1cfd57ef2854 They wanted the soldier on a warhorse. Instead, they’re met by the Prince of Peace, riding on a donkey. This Sunday, Holy Week begins with Palm Sunday – a day that always challenges us to consider where our salvation lies. (Matthew 21:1-11)

]]> They wanted the soldier on a warhorse. Instead, they’re met by the Prince of Peace, riding on a donkey. This Sunday, Holy Week begins with Palm Sunday – a day that always challenges us to consider where our salvation lies. (Matthew 21:1-11)

]]> Restoration Church false No 1429 375 full Lent | The Friendship Of Jesus Lent | The Friendship Of Jesus https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/lent-the-friendship-of-jesus-1774212311/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/lent-the-friendship-of-jesus-1774212311/#comments Sun, 22 Mar 2026 17:45:11 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/cffadc95-cc86-3b0a-9697-3095eb9c6914 There are all sorts of names and descriptions for God throughout the Bible: Savior, Lord, King… but in John 11, we meet God in a way we might not expect: as our friend. Sunday, we see how Jesus’ friendship with Mary, Martha, and Lazarus help us see how he shows up in our lives, too. (John 11:1-45)

]]> There are all sorts of names and descriptions for God throughout the Bible: Savior, Lord, King… but in John 11, we meet God in a way we might not expect: as our friend. Sunday, we see how Jesus’ friendship with Mary, Martha, and Lazarus help us see how he shows up in our lives, too. (John 11:1-45)

]]> Restoration Church false No 1500 374 full Lent | The God Of The Valley Lent | The God Of The Valley https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/lent-the-god-of-the-valley/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/lent-the-god-of-the-valley/#comments Mon, 16 Mar 2026 08:53:29 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/8dfe3605-a9e0-31f2-ace8-da8e80bfab6d We’ve all gone through seasons in our story that feel like “the valley of the shadow of death.” Moments that feel like the darkness is overwhelming. And when we find ourselves here, the question is clear: where is God? And what is He like? This week, we look to a familiar and powerful passage to help us meet “The God of the Valley.” (Psalm 23)

]]> We’ve all gone through seasons in our story that feel like “the valley of the shadow of death.” Moments that feel like the darkness is overwhelming. And when we find ourselves here, the question is clear: where is God? And what is He like? This week, we look to a familiar and powerful passage to help us meet “The God of the Valley.” (Psalm 23)

]]> Restoration Church false No 1692 373 full Lent | Good News For Outsiders Lent | Good News For Outsiders https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/lent-good-news-for-outsiders/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/lent-good-news-for-outsiders/#comments Sun, 08 Mar 2026 21:11:46 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/1a501349-fd24-3a97-8c6e-5a3cca268c92 A lot of us know what it feels like to be on hte outside looking in. This week, our Gospel story is one of the many times Jesus upends the cultural boundaries of his time and meets a vulnerable person right where they are with love. So if you feel like your an outsider, there’s good news – he’ll meet you there, too. (John 4:5-42)

]]> A lot of us know what it feels like to be on hte outside looking in. This week, our Gospel story is one of the many times Jesus upends the cultural boundaries of his time and meets a vulnerable person right where they are with love. So if you feel like your an outsider, there’s good news – he’ll meet you there, too. (John 4:5-42)

]]> Restoration Church false No 1703 372 full Lent | Salvation In The Present Tense Lent | Salvation In The Present Tense https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/lent-salvation-in-the-present-tense-1772458517/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/lent-salvation-in-the-present-tense-1772458517/#comments Mon, 02 Mar 2026 09:35:17 -0400 restorationlex.podbean.com/bc006f1f-081f-3c95-8450-274048143cd5 We often speak of salvation of something that happened – not something that’s happening.

In our second week of Lent, we look at the story of a man in the midst of a crisis of faith; not because he didn’t have all the right answers, but because all those right answers came face to face with Jesus. Nicodemus is invited to be “born again,” an invitation we, too receive. So what does it mean to live into this new birth with Jesus? (John 3:1-17)

]]> We often speak of salvation of something that happened – not something that’s happening.

In our second week of Lent, we look at the story of a man in the midst of a crisis of faith; not because he didn’t have all the right answers, but because all those right answers came face to face with Jesus. Nicodemus is invited to be “born again,” an invitation we, too receive. So what does it mean to live into this new birth with Jesus? (John 3:1-17)

]]> Restoration Church false No 1667 371 full Lent | Salvation In The Present Tense Lent | Salvation In The Present Tense https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/lent-salvation-in-the-present-tense/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/lent-salvation-in-the-present-tense/#comments Sun, 01 Mar 2026 14:19:53 -0400 restorationlex.podbean.com/0ed464b6-1d9a-37e8-b13a-25ab692d541c We often speak of salvation of something that happened – not something that’s happening.

In our second week of Lent, we look at the story of a man in the midst of a crisis of faith; not because he didn’t have all the right answers, but because all those right answers came face to face with Jesus. Nicodemus is invited to be “born again,” an invitation we, too receive. So what does it mean to live into this new birth with Jesus? (John 3:1-17)

]]> We often speak of salvation of something that happened – not something that’s happening.

In our second week of Lent, we look at the story of a man in the midst of a crisis of faith; not because he didn’t have all the right answers, but because all those right answers came face to face with Jesus. Nicodemus is invited to be “born again,” an invitation we, too receive. So what does it mean to live into this new birth with Jesus? (John 3:1-17)

]]> Restoration Church false No 1667 370 full Lent | The Heavy Hand Of God Lent | The Heavy Hand Of God https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/lent-the-heavy-hand-of-god/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/lent-the-heavy-hand-of-god/#comments Mon, 23 Feb 2026 11:24:13 -0400 restorationlex.podbean.com/d2cc4223-5bd6-3a52-8685-df1a1034bcd0 As the season of Lent begins, we give our attention to a moment in David’s life that brought both conviction and clarity. Psalm 32 celebrates the forgiveness of God, but it doesn’t shy away from the weight and weariness of sin. David’s words remind us that God is present even in our hiding and wandering – and if we’ll allow him, he can change us right in the middle of it.

(Psalm 32)

]]> As the season of Lent begins, we give our attention to a moment in David’s life that brought both conviction and clarity. Psalm 32 celebrates the forgiveness of God, but it doesn’t shy away from the weight and weariness of sin. David’s words remind us that God is present even in our hiding and wandering – and if we’ll allow him, he can change us right in the middle of it.

(Psalm 32)

]]> Restoration Church false No 1841 369 full Epiphany | The Transfiguration Epiphany | The Transfiguration https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/epiphany-the-transfiguration/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/epiphany-the-transfiguration/#comments Sun, 15 Feb 2026 17:18:18 -0400 restorationlex.podbean.com/27a1664f-b932-3f5f-a3d8-ceacbdefbe65 In this message, pastor Luke Embree unpacks the Transfiguration, a scene in the Gospel that teaches us how God is present with us in power - right in the middle of the ordinary. (Matthew 17:1-9)

]]> In this message, pastor Luke Embree unpacks the Transfiguration, a scene in the Gospel that teaches us how God is present with us in power - right in the middle of the ordinary. (Matthew 17:1-9)

]]> Restoration Church false No 1511 368 full Epiphany | The Bible Through The Lens Of Jesus Epiphany | The Bible Through The Lens Of Jesus https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/epiphany-the-bible-through-the-lens-of-jesus/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/epiphany-the-bible-through-the-lens-of-jesus/#comments Mon, 09 Feb 2026 10:52:43 -0400 restorationlex.podbean.com/ff55827c-9f2b-3a7d-b4d7-6d3fae83f370 I don’t think it’s an exaggeration to say we as Americans have a dysfunctional relationship with the Bible. It is misused, misapplied, and weaponized. Why? Because we’ve been handed down a tradition that sets the Bible apart from the One to whom it testifies. This Sunday, we’re talking about unlearning and relearning the Bible by reading it through Jesus, with Jesus, for the sake of becoming like Jesus. (Matthew 5:17-20)

]]> I don’t think it’s an exaggeration to say we as Americans have a dysfunctional relationship with the Bible. It is misused, misapplied, and weaponized. Why? Because we’ve been handed down a tradition that sets the Bible apart from the One to whom it testifies. This Sunday, we’re talking about unlearning and relearning the Bible by reading it through Jesus, with Jesus, for the sake of becoming like Jesus. (Matthew 5:17-20)

]]> Restoration Church false No 1583 367 full Special Message | Joining God Special Message | Joining God https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/special-message-joining-god/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/special-message-joining-god/#comments Sun, 01 Feb 2026 16:14:14 -0400 restorationlex.podbean.com/76213c02-da9b-3af9-b2f0-db83ecd0835d If you haven't heard, Restoration is moving! On Sunday, March 1, we're moving to a new home at Arlington Christian Church. In this message, Justin speaks about our identity as a Church - and how we want to grow in our dependence and expectation as we root ourselves in the power and provision of God. (Matthew 16:13-18)

]]> If you haven't heard, Restoration is moving! On Sunday, March 1, we're moving to a new home at Arlington Christian Church. In this message, Justin speaks about our identity as a Church - and how we want to grow in our dependence and expectation as we root ourselves in the power and provision of God. (Matthew 16:13-18)

]]> Restoration Church false No 1879 366 full Vision Sunday | Restoration is ON THE MOVE! Vision Sunday | Restoration is ON THE MOVE! https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/vision-sunday-restoration-is-on-the-move/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/vision-sunday-restoration-is-on-the-move/#comments Tue, 27 Jan 2026 13:26:35 -0400 restorationlex.podbean.com/7dc31293-eec8-3b15-965f-2dc1d9f9805c Did you hear the big news? Restoration has a new home! Beginning Sunday, March 1st, we’re gathering at Arlington Christian Church at a new time: 11:30am. In this message, we hear from Justin and other leaders at Restoration about how and why we are taking this next step. If you're interested in learning more, visit restorationlex.com/futurefund

]]> Did you hear the big news? Restoration has a new home! Beginning Sunday, March 1st, we’re gathering at Arlington Christian Church at a new time: 11:30am. In this message, we hear from Justin and other leaders at Restoration about how and why we are taking this next step. If you're interested in learning more, visit restorationlex.com/futurefund

]]> Restoration Church false No 2127 365 full Special Message | Through The Eyes Of Jesus Special Message | Through The Eyes Of Jesus https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/special-message-through-the-eyes-of-jesus/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/special-message-through-the-eyes-of-jesus/#comments Sun, 18 Jan 2026 18:29:49 -0400 restorationlex.podbean.com/e66c8eef-6f8e-315b-afb4-114897525457 In this special message and interview, we highlight Kentucky Refugee Ministries! Beforehand, Justin unpacks the consistent theme of God's heart for the vulnerable - all the way to its fulfillment in Jesus Christ. If you've never heard of KRM, they do incredible work in caring for the needs of refugees in central Kentucky. Visit their website at kyrm.org

]]> In this special message and interview, we highlight Kentucky Refugee Ministries! Beforehand, Justin unpacks the consistent theme of God's heart for the vulnerable - all the way to its fulfillment in Jesus Christ. If you've never heard of KRM, they do incredible work in caring for the needs of refugees in central Kentucky. Visit their website at kyrm.org

]]> Restoration Church false No 2795 364 full Epiphany | On The Other Side Of Love Epiphany | On The Other Side Of Love https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/epiphany-on-the-other-side-of-love/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/epiphany-on-the-other-side-of-love/#comments Sun, 11 Jan 2026 22:57:46 -0400 restorationlex.podbean.com/194e6049-e900-3371-bec6-ddfe1ce33f7c Do you believe God loves you? You might know the “right answer” to that question, but if we’re honest, there are times when it can be hard to believe. This week, as we look at the baptism of Jesus, we see the loving affirmation of the Father – a love that is likewise spoken over us in Christ. What might it look like to live from this love instead of spending our lives striving for it? (Matthew 3:13-17)

]]> Do you believe God loves you? You might know the “right answer” to that question, but if we’re honest, there are times when it can be hard to believe. This week, as we look at the baptism of Jesus, we see the loving affirmation of the Father – a love that is likewise spoken over us in Christ. What might it look like to live from this love instead of spending our lives striving for it? (Matthew 3:13-17)

]]> Restoration Church false No 1801 363 full Epiphany | The Ministry Of Presence Epiphany | The Ministry Of Presence https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/epiphany-the-ministry-of-presence/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/epiphany-the-ministry-of-presence/#comments Sun, 04 Jan 2026 23:34:21 -0400 restorationlex.podbean.com/b6c7c491-05f1-34b0-a4d9-5fd4f6fc370e In taking on human flesh, Jesus embodied both the message and mission of God. And when it comes to our mission as a Church, the same is true. Just as Jesus chose presence with and for others, we, too, are called to the ministry of presence right where we are. (John 1:1-18) 

]]> In taking on human flesh, Jesus embodied both the message and mission of God. And when it comes to our mission as a Church, the same is true. Just as Jesus chose presence with and for others, we, too, are called to the ministry of presence right where we are. (John 1:1-18) 

]]> Restoration Church false No 1486 362 full Christmas | The Solidarity Of God Christmas | The Solidarity Of God https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/christmas-the-solidarity-of-god-1766962514/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/christmas-the-solidarity-of-god-1766962514/#comments Sun, 28 Dec 2025 18:55:14 -0400 restorationlex.podbean.com/15e28dde-c7ce-3fa2-9617-ee0c9a3c8096 The incarnation means that God chose to become fully human – just like us. Jesus experienced every aching reality of our humanity, from hunger and sadness to laughter and joy. And you may not know it yet, but this is good news. Why? Because everything Jesus embodies, He redeems. (Hebrews 2:10-18)

]]> The incarnation means that God chose to become fully human – just like us. Jesus experienced every aching reality of our humanity, from hunger and sadness to laughter and joy. And you may not know it yet, but this is good news. Why? Because everything Jesus embodies, He redeems. (Hebrews 2:10-18)

]]> Restoration Church false No 1557 361 full Christmas | A Vulnerable God Christmas | A Vulnerable God https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/christmas-a-vulnerable-god/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/christmas-a-vulnerable-god/#comments Wed, 24 Dec 2025 09:06:42 -0400 restorationlex.podbean.com/a6ad10a9-a8c7-3ff2-a85e-3271fa814fa1 What we don't need this Christmas is good advice about how to make an already hard life a little bit better. What we need instead, is good news - a Gospel of a God who meets us in vulnerability and need. That's what we gather around together - a God who meets us where we are, as we are, in love. (Luke 2:1-14)

]]> What we don't need this Christmas is good advice about how to make an already hard life a little bit better. What we need instead, is good news - a Gospel of a God who meets us in vulnerability and need. That's what we gather around together - a God who meets us where we are, as we are, in love. (Luke 2:1-14)

]]> Restoration Church false No 1300 360 full Advent | Family Christmas Gathering Advent | Family Christmas Gathering https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/advent-family-christmas-gathering/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/advent-family-christmas-gathering/#comments Mon, 22 Dec 2025 13:38:52 -0400 restorationlex.podbean.com/e1036ad1-a2a4-3ce7-a2ec-6c10f77b77a9 In this special Sunday gathering, we celebrate the coming of Jesus through the leadership of Restoration Kids! Our message is about Jesus as the light of the world - and how no matter how old we are, we can be a light through a life of love. 

]]> In this special Sunday gathering, we celebrate the coming of Jesus through the leadership of Restoration Kids! Our message is about Jesus as the light of the world - and how no matter how old we are, we can be a light through a life of love. 

]]> Restoration Church false No 1040 359 full Advent | The Lifting Of The Lowly Advent | The Lifting Of The Lowly https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/advent-the-lifting-of-the-lowly/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/advent-the-lifting-of-the-lowly/#comments Sun, 14 Dec 2025 17:54:37 -0400 restorationlex.podbean.com/dc1bfa0c-7a85-333f-b2f5-550723fd40a1 The Gospel begins in the lowest lows. Jesus entered the world through a poor, teenage mother in a nowhere town – in an empire committed to the exploitation of her people. And as her story comes into focus, she does something surprising: she sings a protest song – a song about how the mighty will fall and the lowly will be lifted by God. (Luke 1:46-55)

]]> The Gospel begins in the lowest lows. Jesus entered the world through a poor, teenage mother in a nowhere town – in an empire committed to the exploitation of her people. And as her story comes into focus, she does something surprising: she sings a protest song – a song about how the mighty will fall and the lowly will be lifted by God. (Luke 1:46-55)

]]> Restoration Church false No 1558 358 full Advent | How Judgment Is Good News Advent | How Judgment Is Good News https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/advent-how-judgment-is-good-news/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/advent-how-judgment-is-good-news/#comments Sun, 07 Dec 2025 23:11:42 -0400 restorationlex.podbean.com/e700176b-576f-384e-a616-dd1691c10624 The prophecies that promise the Messiah aren’t just words of hope. They are also pronouncements of judgment. Both then and now, sin and injustice wreck havoc in the world around us. Judgment is coming, yes – but not to ruin us. God’s justice restores. (Isaiah 11:1-10)

]]> The prophecies that promise the Messiah aren’t just words of hope. They are also pronouncements of judgment. Both then and now, sin and injustice wreck havoc in the world around us. Judgment is coming, yes – but not to ruin us. God’s justice restores. (Isaiah 11:1-10)

]]> Restoration Church false No 1726 357 full Advent | The Tension Of Hope Advent | The Tension Of Hope https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/advent-the-tension-of-hope/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/advent-the-tension-of-hope/#comments Sun, 30 Nov 2025 15:49:09 -0400 restorationlex.podbean.com/27614609-a780-384a-97eb-c7ba8744aefd Theologian Fleming Rutledge tells us that “Advent begins in the dark.” It is a season that encourages us to name and embrace the waiting and the longing we feel. As we begin the season of Advent, the Bible calls us to live in the tension – a tension between the darkness we see around us and the light we know is on the way. (Romans 13:11-14)

]]> Theologian Fleming Rutledge tells us that “Advent begins in the dark.” It is a season that encourages us to name and embrace the waiting and the longing we feel. As we begin the season of Advent, the Bible calls us to live in the tension – a tension between the darkness we see around us and the light we know is on the way. (Romans 13:11-14)

]]> Restoration Church false No 1734 356 full A Story-Formed Faith A Story-Formed Faith https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/a-story-formed-faith/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/a-story-formed-faith/#comments Mon, 24 Nov 2025 09:35:34 -0400 restorationlex.podbean.com/15029ade-7f24-31cf-a7f1-c616810df52c For better or worse, our lives are the product of the stories we immerse ourselves in. So as a Church, we need rhythms and practices that reorient our lives around the story God. This week, we’re talking about how our Church practices the story of Jesus together – and how you can walk with us. 

]]> For better or worse, our lives are the product of the stories we immerse ourselves in. So as a Church, we need rhythms and practices that reorient our lives around the story God. This week, we’re talking about how our Church practices the story of Jesus together – and how you can walk with us. 

]]> Restoration Church false No 2148 355 full Jonah | The Scandal Of Mercy Jonah | The Scandal Of Mercy https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/jonah-the-scandal-of-mercy/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/jonah-the-scandal-of-mercy/#comments Sun, 16 Nov 2025 22:20:55 -0400 restorationlex.podbean.com/08c4c6c3-9e8c-3ee5-b99b-06fd677274a4 To the surprise and horror of Jonah, Nineveh repents and turns to God. And while this would might seem like good news (it was!), it made Jonah furious. Jonah’s story raises an important and difficult question: how do we respond to a God to loves the people we despise? As we close out our time in Jonah, we’re exploring how God’s widening mercy challenges the walls we place between “us” and “them.”

]]> To the surprise and horror of Jonah, Nineveh repents and turns to God. And while this would might seem like good news (it was!), it made Jonah furious. Jonah’s story raises an important and difficult question: how do we respond to a God to loves the people we despise? As we close out our time in Jonah, we’re exploring how God’s widening mercy challenges the walls we place between “us” and “them.”

]]> Restoration Church false No 1972 354 full Jonah | The God at the end of our rope. Jonah | The God at the end of our rope. https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/jonah-the-god-at-the-end-of-our-rope/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/jonah-the-god-at-the-end-of-our-rope/#comments Sun, 09 Nov 2025 17:22:06 -0400 restorationlex.podbean.com/10a4abce-af47-3b9e-8790-d8ecf71cbe9e Jonah 2 is a prayer from rock bottom. After running from God, Jonah finds himself sinking deep into the worst moment of his life. And yet unlike Jonah, our worst moments don’t have to harden us. If we allow them to, we can find humility, clarity and a hope that can only be found at the end of our rope. 

]]> Jonah 2 is a prayer from rock bottom. After running from God, Jonah finds himself sinking deep into the worst moment of his life. And yet unlike Jonah, our worst moments don’t have to harden us. If we allow them to, we can find humility, clarity and a hope that can only be found at the end of our rope. 

]]> Restoration Church false No 2269 353 full Jonah | How To Run From God Jonah | How To Run From God https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/jonah-how-to-run-from-god/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/jonah-how-to-run-from-god/#comments Sun, 02 Nov 2025 16:11:22 -0400 restorationlex.podbean.com/9c1764b6-5256-3b57-b51f-47d180bf53fb Jonah is a prophet that does like what he hears from God. So what does he do? He runs. And the result? Rock bottom. But strangely, the belly of the whale isn't a sign of God's anger, but rather his mercy. 

It's not a matter of if - but when - we'll reach our own rock bottom. So what kind of God will we meet at the end of our rope? (Jonah 1) 

]]> Jonah is a prophet that does like what he hears from God. So what does he do? He runs. And the result? Rock bottom. But strangely, the belly of the whale isn't a sign of God's anger, but rather his mercy. 

It's not a matter of if - but when - we'll reach our own rock bottom. So what kind of God will we meet at the end of our rope? (Jonah 1) 

]]> Restoration Church false No 1862 352 full Student-Led Sunday | RAGE! Student-Led Sunday | RAGE! https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/student-led-sunday-rage/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/student-led-sunday-rage/#comments Mon, 27 Oct 2025 09:41:24 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/fb2690f3-e3c1-3b19-ae3d-dcadff780a87 This weekend, our students are leading every aspect of our gathering! As a part of this special Sunday, Our Student Pastor Casey is speaking about rage: namely, our culture’s obsession with reactivity and judgment towards our neighbors. How can we find a better way in Christ?

]]> This weekend, our students are leading every aspect of our gathering! As a part of this special Sunday, Our Student Pastor Casey is speaking about rage: namely, our culture’s obsession with reactivity and judgment towards our neighbors. How can we find a better way in Christ?

]]> Restoration Church false No 1596 351 full Restorers | The Good News Of Justice Restorers | The Good News Of Justice https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/restorers-the-good-news-of-justice/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/restorers-the-good-news-of-justice/#comments Sun, 19 Oct 2025 15:58:57 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/0a5020e1-9205-3fac-93cb-c1799d0cfced Sin doesn’t simply bring death and chaos to individuals. From the beginning, it has moved outward – into our systems, policies, and power structures. It subjugates, marginalizes, and disadvantages people made in the image of God. And correcting these wrongs? That’s called justice – and it’s woven into the very fabric of the Scriptures.

]]> Sin doesn’t simply bring death and chaos to individuals. From the beginning, it has moved outward – into our systems, policies, and power structures. It subjugates, marginalizes, and disadvantages people made in the image of God. And correcting these wrongs? That’s called justice – and it’s woven into the very fabric of the Scriptures.

]]> Restoration Church false No 2289 350 full Restorers | Welcomed And Wanted Restorers | Welcomed And Wanted https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/restorers-welcomed-and-wanted/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/restorers-welcomed-and-wanted/#comments Fri, 17 Oct 2025 10:22:16 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/2bae0f2a-95b7-3e9f-8798-48e5adeb2131 In this week's message in our series Restorers, we unpack the centrality of hospitality in the mission of God. (guest co-preacher: Amanda Hubler)

]]> In this week's message in our series Restorers, we unpack the centrality of hospitality in the mission of God. (guest co-preacher: Amanda Hubler)

]]> Restoration Church false No 1307 349 full Restorers | The Strength Of Mercy Restorers | The Strength Of Mercy https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/restorers-the-strength-of-mercy/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/restorers-the-strength-of-mercy/#comments Sun, 05 Oct 2025 21:07:49 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/b4182eb4-0790-3be2-be3f-75d48649ea76 Do you know what the very first word that God uses to describe Himself to Moses? Merciful. Would that be the first word that is used to describe Christians today? The answer is, well… no. And we need to talk about why. This week, we’re continuing our Restorers series by looking at the centrality of mercy and compassion to our mission with Jesus – what it is, what it does, and why *our own* need for it lies at the heart of what God has calls us to in the world. 

]]> Do you know what the very first word that God uses to describe Himself to Moses? Merciful. Would that be the first word that is used to describe Christians today? The answer is, well… no. And we need to talk about why. This week, we’re continuing our Restorers series by looking at the centrality of mercy and compassion to our mission with Jesus – what it is, what it does, and why *our own* need for it lies at the heart of what God has calls us to in the world. 

]]> Restoration Church false No 2080 348 full Restorers | Servants, Not Saviors Restorers | Servants, Not Saviors https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/restorers-servants-not-saviors/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/restorers-servants-not-saviors/#comments Sun, 28 Sep 2025 23:20:30 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/8e52a8c1-dc0b-3458-808e-c5c9d9327c00 Our presence in this world matters. How we relate to our neighbors speaks volumes about how we understand our faith. Because we are disciples of Jesus, our posture towards our neighbors is clear: we are servants. This Sunday, we’re going to explore what it means to love and be present to our neighbors not as saviors, but as servants.

]]> Our presence in this world matters. How we relate to our neighbors speaks volumes about how we understand our faith. Because we are disciples of Jesus, our posture towards our neighbors is clear: we are servants. This Sunday, we’re going to explore what it means to love and be present to our neighbors not as saviors, but as servants.

]]> Restoration Church false No 1975 347 full Restorers | A Faith Worth Sharing Restorers | A Faith Worth Sharing https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/restorers-a-faith-worth-sharing/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/restorers-a-faith-worth-sharing/#comments Sun, 21 Sep 2025 22:46:27 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/606a73ed-6091-329b-a8ee-bdcbedf9731d It’s a topic that stirs a lot of emotion – and carries a lot of baggage: evangelism. To some, the idea of sharing our faith feels intimidating, outdated, or even offensive. So in this message, we’ll dispel some of the misguided assumptions about what it means to share our faith, and through it, offer a vision for how we might invite people into the story of God. 

]]> It’s a topic that stirs a lot of emotion – and carries a lot of baggage: evangelism. To some, the idea of sharing our faith feels intimidating, outdated, or even offensive. So in this message, we’ll dispel some of the misguided assumptions about what it means to share our faith, and through it, offer a vision for how we might invite people into the story of God. 

]]> Restoration Church false No 1808 346 full Restorers | Joining God Restorers | Joining God https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/restorers-joining-god/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/restorers-joining-god/#comments Sun, 14 Sep 2025 14:49:46 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/2752086f-daa6-3dd0-89f8-de2c1822d889 Every year around this time, we pause to remember our identity and mission as a Church family. This year, as a part of our series Restorers, we’re focusing on how – and why – we join God’s restoring work in the world around us. Over the next 6 weeks, we’ll explore partnering with God through evangelism, justice, mercy, service, and hospitality.

]]> Every year around this time, we pause to remember our identity and mission as a Church family. This year, as a part of our series Restorers, we’re focusing on how – and why – we join God’s restoring work in the world around us. Over the next 6 weeks, we’ll explore partnering with God through evangelism, justice, mercy, service, and hospitality.

]]> Restoration Church false No 1712 345 full Together | Unity Over Uniformity Together | Unity Over Uniformity https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/together-unity-over-uniformity/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/together-unity-over-uniformity/#comments Sun, 31 Aug 2025 18:33:33 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/7d81a1b4-17af-316e-b741-9c153c1283b8 In any given Church, you’ll find a variety of stories and backgrounds gathered into one big, messy family. Our common faith doesn’t always erase our differences, so what makes unity possible? In this message, Justin unpacks what has become a central value at Restoration: the centering of Jesus in everything we do. At our core, He alone holds us together.

]]> In any given Church, you’ll find a variety of stories and backgrounds gathered into one big, messy family. Our common faith doesn’t always erase our differences, so what makes unity possible? In this message, Justin unpacks what has become a central value at Restoration: the centering of Jesus in everything we do. At our core, He alone holds us together.

]]> Restoration Church false No 1817 344 full Together | Seeing Ourselves Clearly Together | Seeing Ourselves Clearly https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/together-seeing-ourselves-clearly/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/together-seeing-ourselves-clearly/#comments Sun, 24 Aug 2025 15:43:06 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/485308f8-380e-3bdf-9ff3-8fbf3e65d42e It may seem counterintuitive, but often the first barrier we encounter in building healthy relationships isn’t them, it’s us. We want to be known by others, but how can we expect others to know us when we don’t really even know ourselves? In this message, we explore how self-awareness opens the door to the kind of community we seek – and share how we’re seeking to build this together at Restoration.

]]> It may seem counterintuitive, but often the first barrier we encounter in building healthy relationships isn’t them, it’s us. We want to be known by others, but how can we expect others to know us when we don’t really even know ourselves? In this message, we explore how self-awareness opens the door to the kind of community we seek – and share how we’re seeking to build this together at Restoration.

]]> Restoration Church false No 1817 343 full Together | Choosing Forgiveness Together | Choosing Forgiveness https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/together-choosing-forgiveness/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/together-choosing-forgiveness/#comments Sun, 17 Aug 2025 20:59:14 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/46654029-9f58-3749-8454-09cd752b3b3f At the heart of the Gospel, you’ll find forgiveness. But in everyday life, forgiveness isn’t always easy. As we continue our series Together, we’re exploring forgiveness – what it is, what it’s not, and why it’s central not only to our faith, but to building healthy, meaningful relationships. 

]]> At the heart of the Gospel, you’ll find forgiveness. But in everyday life, forgiveness isn’t always easy. As we continue our series Together, we’re exploring forgiveness – what it is, what it’s not, and why it’s central not only to our faith, but to building healthy, meaningful relationships. 

]]> Restoration Church false No 1967 342 full Together | Conflict Together | Conflict https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/together-conflict/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/together-conflict/#comments Sun, 10 Aug 2025 15:56:40 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/63e4b86b-9c73-370b-a6d5-65a73def2cdb If we’re going to find healthy relationships in the Church, sooner in later, we’re going to have to learn how to handle conflict. In this message, we explore the centrality of reconciliation to the Gospel – and give a pathway foward in pursuing healthy vision of conflict that bears witness to the reconciliation we’ve found in Christ.

]]> If we’re going to find healthy relationships in the Church, sooner in later, we’re going to have to learn how to handle conflict. In this message, we explore the centrality of reconciliation to the Gospel – and give a pathway foward in pursuing healthy vision of conflict that bears witness to the reconciliation we’ve found in Christ.

]]> Restoration Church false No 1767 341 full Together | A Community Known By Love Together | A Community Known By Love https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/together-a-community-known-by-love/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/together-a-community-known-by-love/#comments Sun, 03 Aug 2025 17:39:50 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/d1f55acc-a30d-3f2d-b2c6-fec97d2b14f7 In the month of August, we're giving our attention to what it means to develop healthy, genuine relationships in the Church. This week, we're laying the foundation by exploring what it means to be a community known by love. (Colossians 3:12-13)

]]> In the month of August, we're giving our attention to what it means to develop healthy, genuine relationships in the Church. This week, we're laying the foundation by exploring what it means to be a community known by love. (Colossians 3:12-13)

]]> Restoration Church false No 1878 340 full The Whole Church | So What About Speaking In Tongues? The Whole Church | So What About Speaking In Tongues? https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/the-whole-church-so-what-about-speaking-in-tongues/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/the-whole-church-so-what-about-speaking-in-tongues/#comments Fri, 01 Aug 2025 00:23:17 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/057c1731-f8b8-3168-91a3-67220477e1ba This past week, we finished out our series #TheWholeChurch by focusing on the gifts we might consider more supernatural. One of those gifts, however, is far more controversial than others: the gift of tongues. In this short video, Justin unpacks what speaking tongues is all about, the guardrails for healthy expression of this gift, and why is matters today.

]]> This past week, we finished out our series #TheWholeChurch by focusing on the gifts we might consider more supernatural. One of those gifts, however, is far more controversial than others: the gift of tongues. In this short video, Justin unpacks what speaking tongues is all about, the guardrails for healthy expression of this gift, and why is matters today.

]]> Restoration Church false No 762 339 full The Whole Church | Spiritual Gifts Part 3 The Whole Church | Spiritual Gifts Part 3 https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/the-whole-church-spiritual-gifts-part-3/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/the-whole-church-spiritual-gifts-part-3/#comments Sun, 27 Jul 2025 19:47:11 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/b1e9a977-1051-3715-a8b4-5b3f0261ef47 This Sunday is our last week in our series The Whole Church - a series that has focused on the Holy Spirit's worki in both our lives as individuals and as a Church. For the last couple of weeks, we've given our attention to the gifts of the Spirit, and this week? Well, we're talking about some of the gifts we might call... supernatural. Miracles. Tongues. Healing. Are these gifts still an active part of the Church? And if so, how might we pursue them in healthy ways? (1 Corinthians 12:4-11)

]]> This Sunday is our last week in our series The Whole Church - a series that has focused on the Holy Spirit's worki in both our lives as individuals and as a Church. For the last couple of weeks, we've given our attention to the gifts of the Spirit, and this week? Well, we're talking about some of the gifts we might call... supernatural. Miracles. Tongues. Healing. Are these gifts still an active part of the Church? And if so, how might we pursue them in healthy ways? (1 Corinthians 12:4-11)

]]> Restoration Church false No 2043 338 full The Whole Church | Spiritual Gifts Part 2 The Whole Church | Spiritual Gifts Part 2 https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/the-whole-church-spiritual-gifts-part-2/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/the-whole-church-spiritual-gifts-part-2/#comments Sun, 20 Jul 2025 14:28:16 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/a4ad732c-da52-3a28-be56-68fb091e378d In the final three week’s of our series The Whole Church, we’re exploring the Spirit’s work in community through the outpouring of spiritual gifts. These gifts are given with a purpose: to unite us and empower us as a people known by love. This week, we’re exploring how the gifts equip every believer for a life of love in community – as well as the barriers that often stand in the way. 

]]> In the final three week’s of our series The Whole Church, we’re exploring the Spirit’s work in community through the outpouring of spiritual gifts. These gifts are given with a purpose: to unite us and empower us as a people known by love. This week, we’re exploring how the gifts equip every believer for a life of love in community – as well as the barriers that often stand in the way. 

]]> Restoration Church false No 2194 337 full The Whole Church | Spiritual Gifts Pt. 1 The Whole Church | Spiritual Gifts Pt. 1 https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/the-whole-church-spiritual-gifts-pt-1/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/the-whole-church-spiritual-gifts-pt-1/#comments Sun, 13 Jul 2025 21:09:46 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/eef10d0f-4241-3ccc-862f-e8d4f0c77040 In the month of July, we’re unpacking one of the most radical teachings in the New Testament: that every believer is empowered by the Spirit for the sake of building a community known by love. In this message, we look at the list of gifts found in Romans 12:6-8.

]]> In the month of July, we’re unpacking one of the most radical teachings in the New Testament: that every believer is empowered by the Spirit for the sake of building a community known by love. In this message, we look at the list of gifts found in Romans 12:6-8.

]]> Restoration Church false No 2089 336 full The Whole Church | The Spirit In Community The Whole Church | The Spirit In Community https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/the-whole-church-the-spirit-in-community/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/the-whole-church-the-spirit-in-community/#comments Sun, 06 Jul 2025 17:44:19 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/5e5f1e1d-bc80-3a77-9550-f292186bb63c In this message Guest Speaker Luke Embree shares how the Holy Spirit calls us out of independence and into and interdependent life in community.  

]]> In this message Guest Speaker Luke Embree shares how the Holy Spirit calls us out of independence and into and interdependent life in community.  

]]> Restoration Church false No 1769 335 full The Whole Church | How The Spirit Leads The Whole Church | How The Spirit Leads https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/the-whole-church-how-the-spirit-leads/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/the-whole-church-how-the-spirit-leads/#comments Sun, 29 Jun 2025 14:54:42 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/592dbdb2-9c1f-3a11-af37-f07c6366c585 These are some of the most important questions we can ask as Christians. This week, we’re focusing on how God speaks, why His voice matters, and how we can know whether we’re we’re actually following His lead. 

]]> These are some of the most important questions we can ask as Christians. This week, we’re focusing on how God speaks, why His voice matters, and how we can know whether we’re we’re actually following His lead. 

]]> Restoration Church false No 2000 334 full The Whole Church | What The Spirit Grows In Us The Whole Church | What The Spirit Grows In Us https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/the-whole-church-what-the-spirit-grows-in-us/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/the-whole-church-what-the-spirit-grows-in-us/#comments Sun, 22 Jun 2025 22:24:30 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/6aba3a3d-8bc6-3d6c-a39d-058d3e96271f How do we know that the Holy Spirit is at work in us? Some point to the power and prominence of our gifts. But Jesus points us somewhere different – to the fruit of His character growing in us.

]]> How do we know that the Holy Spirit is at work in us? Some point to the power and prominence of our gifts. But Jesus points us somewhere different – to the fruit of His character growing in us.

]]> Restoration Church false No 1841 333 full The Whole Church | (Re)Introducing The Holy Spirit The Whole Church | (Re)Introducing The Holy Spirit https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/the-whole-church-reintroducing-the-holy-spirit/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/the-whole-church-reintroducing-the-holy-spirit/#comments Sun, 15 Jun 2025 16:41:11 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/d82f74f0-0775-3698-b8f3-8be06a97e19e Depending on your background and experience in faith, talking about the Holy Spirit can be intimidating – and sometimes come with a lot of baggage. In this message, we’re giving our attention to how Jesus understood and lived in the power of the Holy Spirit – and how His promise for us is far better news than we often dare to dream.

]]> Depending on your background and experience in faith, talking about the Holy Spirit can be intimidating – and sometimes come with a lot of baggage. In this message, we’re giving our attention to how Jesus understood and lived in the power of the Holy Spirit – and how His promise for us is far better news than we often dare to dream.

]]> Restoration Church false No 1817 331 full The Whole Church | Pentecost The Whole Church | Pentecost https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/the-whole-church-pentecost/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/the-whole-church-pentecost/#comments Mon, 09 Jun 2025 09:45:33 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/fb62ee4b-4650-37b3-bfb2-d26027b0e7c7 In this special message, Justin unpacks the meaning of Pentecost before interviewing Dr. Ananthi Jebasingh (founder of Friends Of The Good Samaritan) about the Good Samaritan School, how she's seen God answer prayer, and what it takes to sustain our faith for the long haul. 

]]> In this special message, Justin unpacks the meaning of Pentecost before interviewing Dr. Ananthi Jebasingh (founder of Friends Of The Good Samaritan) about the Good Samaritan School, how she's seen God answer prayer, and what it takes to sustain our faith for the long haul. 

]]> Restoration Church false No 2499 330 full Revelation | Come, Lord Jesus Revelation | Come, Lord Jesus https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/revelation-come-lord-jesus/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/revelation-come-lord-jesus/#comments Sun, 01 Jun 2025 17:02:14 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/fbd46809-85de-35ab-82c1-502add1a37b2 Revelation ends with a simple prayer - a prayer that acts as both a cry of defiance and dependence: come, Lord Jesus. How do we live in a world in which His reign sometimes feels absent? And how might we seek this future we pray for in the present?

]]> Revelation ends with a simple prayer - a prayer that acts as both a cry of defiance and dependence: come, Lord Jesus. How do we live in a world in which His reign sometimes feels absent? And how might we seek this future we pray for in the present?

]]> Restoration Church false No 1973 329 full Revelation | Hell, Judgment, And The Heart Of God Revelation | Hell, Judgment, And The Heart Of God https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/revelation-hell-judgment-and-the-heart-of-god/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/revelation-hell-judgment-and-the-heart-of-god/#comments Sun, 25 May 2025 15:32:55 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/4e6d7bb5-0e1c-3d99-bcfe-8c975017e6fd Not many topics have shipwrecked people’s faith more than the idea of hell – and God’s judgment. So how do we understand these difficult passages in Revelation? And how do we understand them through the lens of God’s heart for restoration? (Revelation 21:6-8, 22-27)

]]> Not many topics have shipwrecked people’s faith more than the idea of hell – and God’s judgment. So how do we understand these difficult passages in Revelation? And how do we understand them through the lens of God’s heart for restoration? (Revelation 21:6-8, 22-27)

]]> Restoration Church false No 2372 328 full Revelation | All Things New Revelation | All Things New https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/revelation-all-things-new/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/revelation-all-things-new/#comments Sun, 18 May 2025 15:59:20 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/f15d011e-94a4-3c7a-a018-5ec246504678 It can feel like the only choices we have right now are blind optimism and cynical pessimism. But when we look to the end of history and see the trajectory of our Story in Christ, we find another option: radical, stubborn hope. Our story doesn’t end in ruin, but restoration. (Revelation 21:1-6)

]]> It can feel like the only choices we have right now are blind optimism and cynical pessimism. But when we look to the end of history and see the trajectory of our Story in Christ, we find another option: radical, stubborn hope. Our story doesn’t end in ruin, but restoration. (Revelation 21:1-6)

]]> Restoration Church false No 1781 327 full Revelation | The Diversity Of Heaven Revelation | The Diversity Of Heaven https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/revelation-the-diversity-of-heaven/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/revelation-the-diversity-of-heaven/#comments Mon, 12 May 2025 09:42:34 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/fd54ca37-e524-33a4-a363-265bcc5942e8 In Revelation 7, John sees a vision of the family of God in heaven – a vision marked by the diversity and difference of ethnicities, cultures and nationalities worshiping as one. Not only is this picture of heaven a hopeful encouragement for our future, it’s a calling and challenge for our present. In a world where our differences are often demonized, we’ve been called to a supernatural unity in Christ. (Revelation 7:9-17)

]]> In Revelation 7, John sees a vision of the family of God in heaven – a vision marked by the diversity and difference of ethnicities, cultures and nationalities worshiping as one. Not only is this picture of heaven a hopeful encouragement for our future, it’s a calling and challenge for our present. In a world where our differences are often demonized, we’ve been called to a supernatural unity in Christ. (Revelation 7:9-17)

]]> Restoration Church false No 1978 326 full Revelation | Follow The Lamb Revelation | Follow The Lamb https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/revelation-follow-the-lamb/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/revelation-follow-the-lamb/#comments Sun, 04 May 2025 16:18:38 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/82d66199-95f6-3762-b989-4c3d380fde57 As we continue to read through the book of Revelation, the powers of evil are represented by beasts and dragons. But our God? Our God is… a Lamb. Strange, right? In this message, we’ll unpack why this is so important not only to our understanding of God character and purpose in Christ, but why this vision of our future is so empowering for our present. (Revelation 5:1-14)

]]> As we continue to read through the book of Revelation, the powers of evil are represented by beasts and dragons. But our God? Our God is… a Lamb. Strange, right? In this message, we’ll unpack why this is so important not only to our understanding of God character and purpose in Christ, but why this vision of our future is so empowering for our present. (Revelation 5:1-14)

]]> Restoration Church false No 1894 325 full Revelation | Allegiance To Jesus Revelation | Allegiance To Jesus https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/revelation-allegiance-to-jesus/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/revelation-allegiance-to-jesus/#comments Sun, 27 Apr 2025 16:16:31 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/68326d05-9d6c-3341-8902-7a7cc96f1c90 Revelation is known to be one of the more intimidating and controversial books in the entire Bible. Years of late night televangelists, rapture best-sellers, and strange conspiracies have left many of us unsure about what it really means – and why it matters. This week, we’re tackling not only why Revelation matters to people like us, but why it’s primary message – allegiance to Jesus – has never been more relevant. (Revelation 1:4-8)

]]> Revelation is known to be one of the more intimidating and controversial books in the entire Bible. Years of late night televangelists, rapture best-sellers, and strange conspiracies have left many of us unsure about what it really means – and why it matters. This week, we’re tackling not only why Revelation matters to people like us, but why it’s primary message – allegiance to Jesus – has never been more relevant. (Revelation 1:4-8)

]]> Restoration Church false No 2058 324 full Easter | The Death Of Death Easter | The Death Of Death https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/easter-the-death-of-death/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/easter-the-death-of-death/#comments Sun, 20 Apr 2025 18:51:12 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/ca738878-cc18-38d5-aebd-f3e6defbdd28 He is risen indeed! In this Easter message, we look to why the resurrection of Jesus matters for our lives. The world we inhabit is dark and heavy, and it can feel like death always has the final word. But what we find in the empty tomb is not only a hope for our future, but a promise for our present.

(1 Corinthians 15:19-26)

]]> He is risen indeed! In this Easter message, we look to why the resurrection of Jesus matters for our lives. The world we inhabit is dark and heavy, and it can feel like death always has the final word. But what we find in the empty tomb is not only a hope for our future, but a promise for our present.

(1 Corinthians 15:19-26)

]]> Restoration Church false No 1602 323 full Palm Sunday | A Different Kind Of King Palm Sunday | A Different Kind Of King https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/palm-sunday-a-different-kind-of-king/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/palm-sunday-a-different-kind-of-king/#comments Sun, 13 Apr 2025 17:51:11 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/8863146e-2f26-3554-8af2-7bfa8597e030 As Holy Week begins, we turn our attention to one of the most crucial events in the life of Jesus: Palm Sunday. Met with cries of adulation and praise, Jesus subversively rides into Jerusalem on a humble donkey. The crowds expect a revolution of violence toward their enemies. Instead, they found a Savior who would die for them.

]]> As Holy Week begins, we turn our attention to one of the most crucial events in the life of Jesus: Palm Sunday. Met with cries of adulation and praise, Jesus subversively rides into Jerusalem on a humble donkey. The crowds expect a revolution of violence toward their enemies. Instead, they found a Savior who would die for them.

]]> Restoration Church false No 1535 322 full Lent | All That We Leave Behind Lent | All That We Leave Behind https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/lent-all-that-we-leave-behind/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/lent-all-that-we-leave-behind/#comments Sun, 06 Apr 2025 15:59:35 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/9537873c-f08a-3b6f-93c0-04775a74795e Kierkegaard famously said that “Life can only be understood backwards; but it must be lived forwards.” A great deal of moving forward in our faith requires a reckoning with our past - and the things we need to let go. Sunday, we’re talking about looking back, letting go, and finding healing and wholeness in Christ. (Philippians 3:4-14)

]]> Kierkegaard famously said that “Life can only be understood backwards; but it must be lived forwards.” A great deal of moving forward in our faith requires a reckoning with our past - and the things we need to let go. Sunday, we’re talking about looking back, letting go, and finding healing and wholeness in Christ. (Philippians 3:4-14)

]]> Restoration Church false No 1729 321 full Lent | Freely Receive, Freely Give Lent | Freely Receive, Freely Give https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/lent-freely-receive-freely-give/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/lent-freely-receive-freely-give/#comments Sun, 30 Mar 2025 16:23:02 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/9a5fe30d-8216-3d54-a014-bb13c0201551 Grace is scandalous. It challenges and often upends what we believe to be right and fair in the world around us. This week, we’re looking at one of the most famous passages of Scripture in the entire Bible – a reminder that we are the beneficiaries of God’s radical grace. And the surest way we see it’s work? We offer it to others. (Luke 15:11-32)

]]> Grace is scandalous. It challenges and often upends what we believe to be right and fair in the world around us. This week, we’re looking at one of the most famous passages of Scripture in the entire Bible – a reminder that we are the beneficiaries of God’s radical grace. And the surest way we see it’s work? We offer it to others. (Luke 15:11-32)

]]> Restoration Church false No 1344 320 full Lent | Redeeming Desire Lent | Redeeming Desire https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/lent-redeeming-desire/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/lent-redeeming-desire/#comments Sun, 23 Mar 2025 15:46:10 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/d8bd2eb9-8743-3307-827e-41ad836d1b43 Desire can feel like a "bad word" in the Church. After all, won't listening to the aches and longings within us only lead us astray? Well, Psalm 63 would like a word. What we find is a God whose invitation isn't to remove our desires, but *redeem* them. (Psalm 63:1-4)

]]> Desire can feel like a "bad word" in the Church. After all, won't listening to the aches and longings within us only lead us astray? Well, Psalm 63 would like a word. What we find is a God whose invitation isn't to remove our desires, but *redeem* them. (Psalm 63:1-4)

]]> Restoration Church false No 1745 319 full Lent | Hard Hearts And First Loves Lent | Hard Hearts And First Loves https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/lent-hard-hearts-and-first-loves/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/lent-hard-hearts-and-first-loves/#comments Sun, 16 Mar 2025 22:47:50 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/65bc4e21-a211-37b2-ada8-b72ce6d3b1fd In Psalm 27, David is at the end of his rope. There in the dark, there’s only one thing that he wants: the presence of God. Sometimes on our journey, we lose sight of our “one thing.” So when our hearts grow cold and our love runs dry, how do we recover our hunger for God?

]]> In Psalm 27, David is at the end of his rope. There in the dark, there’s only one thing that he wants: the presence of God. Sometimes on our journey, we lose sight of our “one thing.” So when our hearts grow cold and our love runs dry, how do we recover our hunger for God?

]]> Restoration Church false No 1625 318 full Lent | Tempted And Tried Lent | Tempted And Tried https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/lent-tempted-and-tried/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/lent-tempted-and-tried/#comments Sun, 09 Mar 2025 16:06:23 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/34c79e28-3c61-3e37-8d31-a94d1f0d6631 C.S. Lewis writes: “Wickedness, when you examine it, turns out to be the pursuit of some good in the wrong way.” This is what we learn from Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness – that the essence of our brokenness is the pursuit of *good* desires apart from God. Sunday, as the season of Lent begins, we’re unpacking what this means for us as we pursue wholeness in Christ. (Luke 4:1-13)

]]> C.S. Lewis writes: “Wickedness, when you examine it, turns out to be the pursuit of some good in the wrong way.” This is what we learn from Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness – that the essence of our brokenness is the pursuit of *good* desires apart from God. Sunday, as the season of Lent begins, we’re unpacking what this means for us as we pursue wholeness in Christ. (Luke 4:1-13)

]]> Restoration Church false No 1618 317 full Epiphany | Jesus In A Different Light Epiphany | Jesus In A Different Light https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/epiphany-jesus-in-a-different-light/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/epiphany-jesus-in-a-different-light/#comments Sun, 02 Mar 2025 16:08:23 -0400 restorationlex.podbean.com/4ab6ac6b-3bef-3b2b-9a35-9867b1159592 Jesus doesn’t change. But as we grow, how we see Him does. As we close out the season of Epiphany, we’re focusing on what it means with seeing Jesus with new eyes as we grow in our faith. (Luke 9:28-36)

]]> Jesus doesn’t change. But as we grow, how we see Him does.
As we close out the season of Epiphany, we’re focusing on what it means with seeing Jesus with new eyes as we grow in our faith. (Luke 9:28-36)

]]> Restoration Church false No 1521 316 full Epiphany | The Invitation And The Cost Epiphany | The Invitation And The Cost https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/epiphany-the-invitation-and-the-cost/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/epiphany-the-invitation-and-the-cost/#comments Sun, 23 Feb 2025 21:15:11 -0400 restorationlex.podbean.com/69267799-2eb8-33c1-9e36-be0129bb45fc Everybody is following somebody. So how about you?  In Luke 5, Jesus begins his work not through a series of events, but in and through relationships with ordinary people like us. This Sunday, we’re unpacking what it means to meet Jesus as a disciple in our ordinary lives – and explore our calling to invite others to do the same. (Guest Speaker: Amanda Hubler)

]]> Everybody is following somebody. So how about you? 
In Luke 5, Jesus begins his work not through a series of events, but in and through relationships with ordinary people like us. This Sunday, we’re unpacking what it means to meet Jesus as a disciple in our ordinary lives – and explore our calling to invite others to do the same. (Guest Speaker: Amanda Hubler)

]]> Restoration Church false No 1241 315 full Deep Roots In Desolate Places Deep Roots In Desolate Places https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/deep-roots-in-desolate-places/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/deep-roots-in-desolate-places/#comments Mon, 17 Feb 2025 11:50:47 -0400 restorationlex.podbean.com/b75362ae-799e-3729-8727-65214ec1dc4c These are desolate and often desperate times. In these challenging days ahead, we're either going to wither away in our weariness... or we're going to grow our roots deep. Sunday is about being honest about where we are, what is growing in us, and how we might put down roots in the steadfast love of God. (Psalm 1:1-3) 

]]> These are desolate and often desperate times. In these challenging days ahead, we're either going to wither away in our weariness... or we're going to grow our roots deep. Sunday is about being honest about where we are, what is growing in us, and how we might put down roots in the steadfast love of God. (Psalm 1:1-3) 

]]> Restoration Church false No 1773 314 full Epiphany | Deep Roots In Desolate Places Epiphany | Deep Roots In Desolate Places https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/epiphany-deep-roots-in-desolate-places/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/epiphany-deep-roots-in-desolate-places/#comments Sun, 16 Feb 2025 16:44:54 -0400 restorationlex.podbean.com/fb6309dd-27b8-3981-977f-6d93dab860e8 These are desolate and often desperate times. In these challenging days ahead, we’re either going to wither away in our weariness… or we’re going to grow our roots deep. Sunday is about being honest about where we are, what is growing in us, and how we might put down roots in the steadfast love of God. (Psalm 1:1-3)

]]> These are desolate and often desperate times. In these challenging days ahead, we’re either going to wither away in our weariness… or we’re going to grow our roots deep. Sunday is about being honest about where we are, what is growing in us, and how we might put down roots in the steadfast love of God. (Psalm 1:1-3)

]]> Restoration Church false No 1773 313 full Epiphany | Enemy Love As Resistance Epiphany | Enemy Love As Resistance https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/epiphany-enemy-love-as-resistance/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/epiphany-enemy-love-as-resistance/#comments Sun, 09 Feb 2025 16:21:26 -0400 restorationlex.podbean.com/3ab4b337-690a-36b6-a8e5-e6b2353567b1 Of all of Jesus’ commands, his call to love our enemies might be the most radical - and yet the most needed in a moment like this. Sunday, I’m unpacking why love for our enemies isn’t just a lofty ideal to admire, but a kingdom strategy of resistance to the world as we know it. (Luke 6:27-38)

]]> Of all of Jesus’ commands, his call to love our enemies might be the most radical - and yet the most needed in a moment like this. Sunday, I’m unpacking why love for our enemies isn’t just a lofty ideal to admire, but a kingdom strategy of resistance to the world as we know it. (Luke 6:27-38)

]]> Restoration Church false No 1658 312 full Epiphany | What Love Demands Of Us Epiphany | What Love Demands Of Us https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/epiphany-what-love-demands-of-us/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/epiphany-what-love-demands-of-us/#comments Sun, 02 Feb 2025 22:09:50 -0400 restorationlex.podbean.com/e00a2822-72e5-33c1-a1b4-19f20ed8b74c Known by our theology? Nope. By the superiority of our morality? Nope. By the passion of our activism? Nope. By the allegiance of our politics? Nope. By the depth of our knowledge? Nope. Jesus said the world would know us by agape - steadfast, self-giving love. So what does that look like at ground-level in a moment like this? (1 Corinthians 13:1-7 NIV)

]]> Known by our theology? Nope. By the superiority of our morality? Nope. By the passion of our activism? Nope. By the allegiance of our politics? Nope. By the depth of our knowledge? Nope. Jesus said the world would know us by agape - steadfast, self-giving love. So what does that look like at ground-level in a moment like this? (1 Corinthians 13:1-7 NIV)

]]> Restoration Church false No 2037 311 full 8th Anniversary Service | Growing Up Together 8th Anniversary Service | Growing Up Together https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/8th-anniversary-service-growing-up-together/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/8th-anniversary-service-growing-up-together/#comments Mon, 27 Jan 2025 09:31:49 -0400 restorationlex.podbean.com/c2416c9d-5caa-328c-9337-54ccea7fe2a1 This weeked, our Church family turned 8 years old! This Sunday, we’re going to look back at where we’ve been, celebrate where we are, and talk about the mission we’re seeking as we moved into our future as we "grow up together." (Ephesians 4:11-16)

]]> This weeked, our Church family turned 8 years old! This Sunday, we’re going to look back at where we’ve been, celebrate where we are, and talk about the mission we’re seeking as we moved into our future as we "grow up together." (Ephesians 4:11-16)

]]> Restoration Church false No 1779 310 full Epiphany | When The Waters Rise Epiphany | When The Waters Rise https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/epiphany-when-the-waters-rise/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/epiphany-when-the-waters-rise/#comments Sun, 12 Jan 2025 14:39:17 -0400 restorationlex.podbean.com/b8a98b76-7a12-3cc3-a5cb-bfcae071e55c There is a through line that weaves through the Scriptures around the deep, dark waters of chaos. Disorder. We all try to push back against its power. But here's the question: what if God is not saving from from it, but rather through it? (Isaiah 43:1-7)

]]> There is a through line that weaves through the Scriptures around the deep, dark waters of chaos. Disorder. We all try to push back against its power. But here's the question: what if God is not saving from from it, but rather through it? (Isaiah 43:1-7)

]]> Restoration Church false No 1560 309 full Christmas | Good News Embodied Christmas | Good News Embodied https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/christmas-good-news-embodied/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/christmas-good-news-embodied/#comments Sun, 05 Jan 2025 13:00:41 -0400 restorationlex.podbean.com/913d4496-0e4c-36ce-a04a-b29534882a91 When salvation arrived, it did not come in the form of a new set of rules, a superior philosophy, or a purer religion. No, God gave Himself. This Sunday we begin the new year with perhaps our oldest and dearest hope: that Jesus is what God is saying to us. (John 1:1-18)

]]> When salvation arrived, it did not come in the form of a new set of rules, a superior philosophy, or a purer religion. No, God gave Himself. This Sunday we begin the new year with perhaps our oldest and dearest hope: that Jesus is what God is saying to us. (John 1:1-18)

]]> Restoration Church false No 1319 308 full Christmas | The Vulnerability Of God Christmas | The Vulnerability Of God https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/christmas-the-vulnerability-of-god/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/christmas-the-vulnerability-of-god/#comments Sun, 22 Dec 2024 16:12:08 -0400 restorationlex.podbean.com/dc12fbb4-bae8-3aa8-a8b7-58eb8a02b572 There is a paradox at the heart of Christmas: the God of all glory not only becomes human, but vulnerable.  Jesus arrives in the messy vulnerability of our humanity, taking on not only a human body, but a human life – with all of it’s complexities. Why? Because He’s redeeming all of us – not just our souls. He became like us so we might become like Him. 

]]> There is a paradox at the heart of Christmas: the God of all glory not only becomes human, but vulnerable.  Jesus arrives in the messy vulnerability of our humanity, taking on not only a human body, but a human life – with all of it’s complexities. Why? Because He’s redeeming all of us – not just our souls. He became like us so we might become like Him. 

]]> Restoration Church false No 1310 307 full Advent | Mary's Protest Song Advent | Mary's Protest Song https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/advent-marys-protest-song/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/advent-marys-protest-song/#comments Sun, 15 Dec 2024 22:23:23 -0400 restorationlex.podbean.com/78e1ba7f-2579-3da3-a867-97a0822e2795 Mary wasn’t anything like the serene and sanitized depictions we often see during the Christmas season. This poor, Galilean, teenage girl stepped into the story of God with boldness and trust, and the song she sings while pregnant with the Savior of the world is a reminder that God is turning the world as we know it upside down. 

]]> Mary wasn’t anything like the serene and sanitized depictions we often see during the Christmas season. This poor, Galilean, teenage girl stepped into the story of God with boldness and trust, and the song she sings while pregnant with the Savior of the world is a reminder that God is turning the world as we know it upside down. 

]]> Restoration Church false No 1841 306 full Advent | The Good News Of Judgment Advent | The Good News Of Judgment https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/advent-the-good-news-of-judgment/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/advent-the-good-news-of-judgment/#comments Sun, 08 Dec 2024 14:47:55 -0400 restorationlex.podbean.com/c822425e-be2a-361d-971c-4726ecbde6a8 JUDGMENT.😬 Some streams of Christianity try to gloss it over. Others love to project it onto everyone else – except (conveniently) themselves. So what do we do with these promises of judgment – and how do we understand them through the lens of Jesus? (Luke 3:1-6, Malachi 3:1-4)

]]> JUDGMENT.😬 Some streams of Christianity try to gloss it over. Others love to project it onto everyone else – except (conveniently) themselves. So what do we do with these promises of judgment – and how do we understand them through the lens of Jesus? (Luke 3:1-6, Malachi 3:1-4)

]]> Restoration Church false No 1643 305 full Advent | A Doxology In The Darkness Advent | A Doxology In The Darkness https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/advent-a-doxology-in-the-darkness/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/advent-a-doxology-in-the-darkness/#comments Sun, 01 Dec 2024 18:05:35 -0400 restorationlex.podbean.com/08854349-619b-3160-9619-298de47c2694 Advent begins not in the bright lights of Christmas, but in the darkness of our need. As we wait for the coming of our Savior, we remember that the darkness we face is not a place of God’s absence, but His presence. 

]]> Advent begins not in the bright lights of Christmas, but in the darkness of our need. As we wait for the coming of our Savior, we remember that the darkness we face is not a place of God’s absence, but His presence. 

]]> Restoration Church false No 2007 304 full Feeling | Lonely Feeling | Lonely https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/feeling-lonely/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/feeling-lonely/#comments Sun, 24 Nov 2024 17:27:29 -0400 restorationlex.podbean.com/ef2ff9ea-76b2-3f80-b205-e85e870363ca We all have a need to be seen and known and loved where we are. And no matter how crowded the room we find ourselves in, if we still feel unseen and disconnected, we will feel one of the toughest feelings of all: loneliness. In this message, we unpack what loneliness is, why we feel it, and how to overcome our barriers to deep connection with others. 

]]> We all have a need to be seen and known and loved where we are. And no matter how crowded the room we find ourselves in, if we still feel unseen and disconnected, we will feel one of the toughest feelings of all: loneliness. In this message, we unpack what loneliness is, why we feel it, and how to overcome our barriers to deep connection with others. 

]]> Restoration Church false No 2126 303 full Feeling | Shame Feeling | Shame https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/feeling-shame/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/feeling-shame/#comments Sun, 17 Nov 2024 16:30:48 -0400 restorationlex.podbean.com/e479b861-95f1-3c8f-a5a3-412f2b2a217d Peeling back the layers of our emotions, you’ll often find a feeling that loves to stay in the shadows. But while we may not always see it on the surface, it constantly whispers our worthlessness while simultaneously stirring our wrath towards those we’d rather see condemned in our place. In this message, we’re hitting a big one we ALL need to come to grips with: SHAME.

]]> Peeling back the layers of our emotions, you’ll often find a feeling that loves to stay in the shadows. But while we may not always see it on the surface, it constantly whispers our worthlessness while simultaneously stirring our wrath towards those we’d rather see condemned in our place. In this message, we’re hitting a big one we ALL need to come to grips with: SHAME.

]]> Restoration Church false No 1932 302 full Feeling | Grief Feeling | Grief https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/feeling-grief/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/feeling-grief/#comments Sun, 10 Nov 2024 16:37:59 -0400 restorationlex.podbean.com/9d438c13-9b00-36e2-85a7-8c92337bcf44 Life will upend you eventually. Some sort of crisis, broken relationship, diagnosis, or unexpected heartache will find us. And while we’ve build a world designed to numb us from feeling it, it is almost always the very space where we meet God in a way we would not otherwise. This week, we’re tackling GRIEF: why the Bible honors it, how Jesus redeems it, and why strangely, it’s where joy takes root.

]]> Life will upend you eventually. Some sort of crisis, broken relationship, diagnosis, or unexpected heartache will find us. And while we’ve build a world designed to numb us from feeling it, it is almost always the very space where we meet God in a way we would not otherwise. This week, we’re tackling GRIEF: why the Bible honors it, how Jesus redeems it, and why strangely, it’s where joy takes root.

]]> Restoration Church false No 2163 301 full Feeling | Anxiety Feeling | Anxiety https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/feeling-anxiety/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/feeling-anxiety/#comments Mon, 04 Nov 2024 10:23:01 -0400 restorationlex.podbean.com/10ff57a6-1245-30b6-aa5f-48a9f6dc865e Anyone who struggles with anxiety knows it can be so much more than just a “feeling.” It often makes its home in our bodies, leaving us feeling isolated from God, from the people around us, and even ourselves. In this message, we’re tackling an emotion that hasn’t always been easy to talk about in the Church. We’re aiming to change that – and find healing and hope along the way.

]]> Anyone who struggles with anxiety knows it can be so much more than just a “feeling.” It often makes its home in our bodies, leaving us feeling isolated from God, from the people around us, and even ourselves. In this message, we’re tackling an emotion that hasn’t always been easy to talk about in the Church. We’re aiming to change that – and find healing and hope along the way.

]]> Restoration Church false No 1893 300 full Feeling | Anger Feeling | Anger https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/feeling-anger/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/feeling-anger/#comments Sun, 27 Oct 2024 20:47:30 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/35d35336-3503-3c3c-9ea2-99e18b7bad41 Anger. Maybe you’ve learned to stuff it in. To numb it. Ignore it. Maybe it leaks out slowly in your body language or the way you speak to the people around you. Whatever the case, it’s in there. So let’s face it - and bring it to God. 

]]> Anger. Maybe you’ve learned to stuff it in. To numb it. Ignore it. Maybe it leaks out slowly in your body language or the way you speak to the people around you. Whatever the case, it’s in there. So let’s face it - and bring it to God. 

]]> Restoration Church false No 1982 299 full Special Message | Pursuing Peace In A Troubled World Special Message | Pursuing Peace In A Troubled World https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/special-message-pursuing-peace-in-a-troubled-world/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/special-message-pursuing-peace-in-a-troubled-world/#comments Sun, 20 Oct 2024 15:52:01 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/8bc70813-25ae-32b2-9771-0da44f6b581c As the election nears, the anxiety and animosity in the world around us seems to grow with it. In this special message, we’ll look at the Christian call to peace-making in a violent, vitriolic world. 

]]> As the election nears, the anxiety and animosity in the world around us seems to grow with it. In this special message, we’ll look at the Christian call to peace-making in a violent, vitriolic world. 

]]> Restoration Church false No 2277 298 full Common Threads | Learning To Pray Backwards And Forwards Common Threads | Learning To Pray Backwards And Forwards https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/common-threads-learning-to-pray-backwards-and-forwards/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/common-threads-learning-to-pray-backwards-and-forwards/#comments Mon, 14 Oct 2024 09:10:55 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/e1751117-a987-30ea-b12d-2da9e89052c4 As a community, our commitment to prayer is the foundation of our life together. In this message, we look at a pivital moment in the early church when crisis drives the family of God to prayer – and how we can trust God with the same boldness. 

]]> As a community, our commitment to prayer is the foundation of our life together. In this message, we look at a pivital moment in the early church when crisis drives the family of God to prayer – and how we can trust God with the same boldness. 

]]> Restoration Church false No 2151 297 full Common Threads | The Bible Through The Lens Of Jesus Common Threads | The Bible Through The Lens Of Jesus https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/common-threads-the-bible-through-the-lens-of-jesus/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/common-threads-the-bible-through-the-lens-of-jesus/#comments Mon, 07 Oct 2024 09:45:28 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/9db16592-c219-3983-9af2-d7483fb91f7b Every week, the Scriptures both inform us and form us as a community. But in a world where the Bible is misused and abused in so many ways, how we approach the Bible matters. In this message, Justin shares how we come to the Bible through the lens of Jesus - the Word made flesh. 

]]> Every week, the Scriptures both inform us and form us as a community. But in a world where the Bible is misused and abused in so many ways, how we approach the Bible matters. In this message, Justin shares how we come to the Bible through the lens of Jesus - the Word made flesh. 

]]> Restoration Church false No 1642 296 full Common Threads | The Common Table Common Threads | The Common Table https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/common-threads-the-common-table/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/common-threads-the-common-table/#comments Mon, 07 Oct 2024 09:38:57 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/65358f5c-a9d8-3808-bd31-566a42b5b061 For thousands of years, the Church has gathered around a central sacrement of both our belief and our belonging: the Table of Jesus. Communion is more than a weekly ritual – it’s an opportunity to remember who we are and return to the One who welcomes us home. Join us this Sunday as we continue our series Common Threads!

]]> For thousands of years, the Church has gathered around a central sacrement of both our belief and our belonging: the Table of Jesus. Communion is more than a weekly ritual – it’s an opportunity to remember who we are and return to the One who welcomes us home. Join us this Sunday as we continue our series Common Threads!

]]> Restoration Church false No 1517 295 full Common Threads | The Heart Of Our Worship Common Threads | The Heart Of Our Worship https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/common-threads-the-heart-of-our-worship/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/common-threads-the-heart-of-our-worship/#comments Mon, 23 Sep 2024 13:59:34 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/1db16f3b-ccac-325d-ac2b-48459d0249cb Every week, an eclectic group of people gather at the Lyric – a room full of stories and struggles that are finding their way together in Jesus. Everything we do in these moments matters – serving not just to inform our faith, but to form us as the people us God. 

]]> Every week, an eclectic group of people gather at the Lyric – a room full of stories and struggles that are finding their way together in Jesus. Everything we do in these moments matters – serving not just to inform our faith, but to form us as the people us God. 

]]> Restoration Church false No 2071 294 full Common Threads | The Waters Of Baptism Common Threads | The Waters Of Baptism https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/common-threads-the-waters-of-baptism/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/common-threads-the-waters-of-baptism/#comments Mon, 16 Sep 2024 09:57:27 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/5063570f-3519-3afc-8c7a-1daad55884ee From the very beginning of our faith, baptism has been a public declaration of both our belief and belonging in Jesus. In this message (on a Sunday with 5 baptisms!), Justin shares why this symbol is so central to the journey of our faith, and why it marks our trajectory for our future in Christ. 

]]> From the very beginning of our faith, baptism has been a public declaration of both our belief and belonging in Jesus. In this message (on a Sunday with 5 baptisms!), Justin shares why this symbol is so central to the journey of our faith, and why it marks our trajectory for our future in Christ. 

]]> Restoration Church false No 1496 293 full Restore | Mission At The Pace Of Jesus Restore | Mission At The Pace Of Jesus https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/restore-mission-at-the-pace-of-jesus/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/restore-mission-at-the-pace-of-jesus/#comments Sun, 01 Sep 2024 15:55:38 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/e721dde0-f6d3-357c-832a-cb8570706f76 Being "on mission" is anxious and exhausting in a Church when the underlying belief is that it all hangs on you. At Restoration, we're seeking to make Jesus the model for Jesus' mission - learning to join God instead of trying to frantically do His work for him.

]]> Being "on mission" is anxious and exhausting in a Church when the underlying belief is that it all hangs on you. At Restoration, we're seeking to make Jesus the model for Jesus' mission - learning to join God instead of trying to frantically do His work for him.

]]> Restoration Church false No 2303 292 full Restore | Centering Jesus. Restore | Centering Jesus. https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/restore-centering-jesus/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/restore-centering-jesus/#comments Sun, 25 Aug 2024 17:07:45 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/2673f5f1-8025-369d-bed8-7b7108613f48 Every person - and every organization - has a center. It is the orientation of the whole, the measurement of both what it means to believe AND what it means to belong. In this message, we explore what it means for our Church family to make Jesus our center - and how that impacts the kind of community we seek to build.

]]> Every person - and every organization - has a center. It is the orientation of the whole, the measurement of both what it means to believe AND what it means to belong. In this message, we explore what it means for our Church family to make Jesus our center - and how that impacts the kind of community we seek to build.

]]> restorationlex false No 2077 291 full Restore | Restoring Relationships Restore | Restoring Relationships https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/restore-restoring-relationships/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/restore-restoring-relationships/#comments Sun, 18 Aug 2024 16:13:56 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/86aaad23-dcc5-3dd2-b610-22f20af53eb8 As God restores us, the first place we see the fruit is in our relationships. Sunday we’re unpacking barriers to building healthy relationships - and the kind of community where we can slow down, find healing, and learn to bear with one another in love. (Colossians 3:12-13)

]]> As God restores us, the first place we see the fruit is in our relationships. Sunday we’re unpacking barriers to building healthy relationships - and the kind of community where we can slow down, find healing, and learn to bear with one another in love. (Colossians 3:12-13)

]]> restorationlex false No 1810 290 full Restore | Pursuing Wholeness Restore | Pursuing Wholeness https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/restore-pursuing-wholeness/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/restore-pursuing-wholeness/#comments Mon, 12 Aug 2024 09:39:50 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/08ce682d-6874-318a-9f39-97384aab0ad4 We can’t offer the world around us what we’re not receiving ourselves. To become a community of restorers, we must ourselves receive God’s restoring work in our whole selves. Sunday we’re beginning to unpack what it means for *us* to be restored to wholeness in Christ. 

]]> We can’t offer the world around us what we’re not receiving ourselves. To become a community of restorers, we must ourselves receive God’s restoring work in our whole selves. Sunday we’re beginning to unpack what it means for *us* to be restored to wholeness in Christ. 

]]> restorationlex false No 1914 289 full Restore | The Restoration Of All Things Restore | The Restoration Of All Things https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/restore-the-restoration-of-all-things/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/restore-the-restoration-of-all-things/#comments Sun, 04 Aug 2024 15:14:06 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/fb1206e3-1c59-365a-a8e9-234544176582 7.5 years ago, Restoration Church was born. So what makes us who we are? In this message, Justin shares how the Gospel we believe is bigger than we think – and why it inspires the community we build together. 

]]> 7.5 years ago, Restoration Church was born. So what makes us who we are? In this message, Justin shares how the Gospel we believe is bigger than we think – and why it inspires the community we build together. 

]]> restorationlex false No 1879 288 full On Earth As It Is In Heaven | (Re)constructing Church On Earth As It Is In Heaven | (Re)constructing Church https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/on-earth-as-it-is-in-heaven-reconstructing-church/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/on-earth-as-it-is-in-heaven-reconstructing-church/#comments Mon, 29 Jul 2024 08:27:26 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/2d509544-37ac-3214-b0b5-620fab98c75d What are you building your life on? Peter calls Jesus our cornerstone – a stone rejected by the world. So for a people being built on a Savior who doesn’t fit, we shouldn’t be surprised if we don’t fit either. But that’s good news. (1 Peter 2:4-7)

]]> What are you building your life on? Peter calls Jesus our cornerstone – a stone rejected by the world. So for a people being built on a Savior who doesn’t fit, we shouldn’t be surprised if we don’t fit either. But that’s good news. (1 Peter 2:4-7)

]]> restorationlex false No 1882 287 full On Earth As It Is In Heaven | How And Who We Fight On Earth As It Is In Heaven | How And Who We Fight https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/on-earth-as-it-is-in-heaven-how-and-who-we-fight/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/on-earth-as-it-is-in-heaven-how-and-who-we-fight/#comments Sun, 21 Jul 2024 16:46:39 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/70c0c36e-b6be-3cf1-b119-879296b7db22 We inhabit a world where we are often defined by who we are against. And yet we have an adversary that knows that when we sow division, belittle our enemies, and weaponize our words against one another, we’re fighting his battle for him. In this message, we’re unpacking why we often miss the real enemy – and how we can combat the work of his lies among us. (1 Peter 5:8-9)

]]> We inhabit a world where we are often defined by who we are against. And yet we have an adversary that knows that when we sow division, belittle our enemies, and weaponize our words against one another, we’re fighting his battle for him. In this message, we’re unpacking why we often miss the real enemy – and how we can combat the work of his lies among us. (1 Peter 5:8-9)

]]> restorationlex false No 1964 286 full On Earth As It Is In Heaven | Making Room At The Table On Earth As It Is In Heaven | Making Room At The Table https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/on-earth-as-it-is-in-heaven-making-room-at-the-table/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/on-earth-as-it-is-in-heaven-making-room-at-the-table/#comments Sun, 14 Jul 2024 16:27:48 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/e6c999ec-3928-3d6c-8a46-27fff2bc3ba2 It can often feel like the world is ending - like *our world* is ending. 1 Peter is written to communities that knew that anxiety well, and yet their response wasn't to build bigger walls. It was to build bigger tables. In this message, we explore the centrality of hospitable love to the mission of the Church. (1 Peter 4:7-9)

]]> It can often feel like the world is ending - like *our world* is ending. 1 Peter is written to communities that knew that anxiety well, and yet their response wasn't to build bigger walls. It was to build bigger tables. In this message, we explore the centrality of hospitable love to the mission of the Church. (1 Peter 4:7-9)

]]> restorationlex false No 1962 285 full On Earth As It Is In Heaven | Holiness As Counterculture On Earth As It Is In Heaven | Holiness As Counterculture https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/on-earth-as-it-is-in-heaven-holiness-as-counterculture/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/on-earth-as-it-is-in-heaven-holiness-as-counterculture/#comments Sun, 07 Jul 2024 15:24:22 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/f1291b56-f8cc-3a5b-bc8d-919265424cb1 This week, we're joined by a guest speaker - Pastor Luke Embree of Open Door Church. As we continue our On Earth As It Is In Heaven series through the book of 1 Peter, Luke shares about how holiness is an expression of the abundance of God. (1 Peter 2:11-12, 4:1-7)

]]> This week, we're joined by a guest speaker - Pastor Luke Embree of Open Door Church. As we continue our On Earth As It Is In Heaven series through the book of 1 Peter, Luke shares about how holiness is an expression of the abundance of God. (1 Peter 2:11-12, 4:1-7)

]]> restorationlex false No 1882 284 full On Earth As It Is In Heaven | Wait... Submit? On Earth As It Is In Heaven | Wait... Submit? https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/on-earth-as-it-is-in-heaven-wait-submit/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/on-earth-as-it-is-in-heaven-wait-submit/#comments Sun, 30 Jun 2024 14:54:09 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/fc49d3d8-d438-3099-adbf-a9e8fc584769 Does the New Testament demand the subjegation of women in marriage? For decades, this has been one of the most divisive controversies in the Church. In this message, Justin shares why a deeper look at these difficult passages shows a vision for marriages and relationships that are liberating and empowering for both men and women. (1 Peter 3:1-7)

]]> Does the New Testament demand the subjegation of women in marriage? For decades, this has been one of the most divisive controversies in the Church. In this message, Justin shares why a deeper look at these difficult passages shows a vision for marriages and relationships that are liberating and empowering for both men and women. (1 Peter 3:1-7)

]]> restorationlex false No 1921 283 full On Earth As It Is In Heaven | Set Apart On Earth As It Is In Heaven | Set Apart https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/on-earth-as-it-is-in-heaven-set-apart/ https://restorationlex.podbean.com/e/on-earth-as-it-is-in-heaven-set-apart/#comments Thu, 27 Jun 2024 14:25:27 -0300 restorationlex.podbean.com/fe2ece29-1ffd-3bbb-b5d2-f4b187680323 Let's face it... we're different. In what is considered the thesis statement of Peter's first letter, we find out why we've been set apart - by and for a purpose that goes far beyond ourselves. (1 Peter 2:9-12)

]]> Let's face it... we're different. In what is considered the thesis statement of Peter's first letter, we find out why we've been set apart - by and for a purpose that goes far beyond ourselves. (1 Peter 2:9-12)

]]> restorationlex false No 1354 282 full