Never Never Never - Guest Speaker Pastor Jeremiah Sims

Guest Speaker Pastor Jeremiah Sims shares lessons from the life of Joseph son of Jacob. God will Never Never Never leave us alone and God is in the pits with us. We don't have to be anxious for anything, we know the Prince of Peace.

Peace Has Come - Prince of Peace Series

Even Atheists and Agnostics celebrate Christmas each year. They set up trees, give gifts, gather with family, and some even set up nativity sets! Baby Jesus in the manger is cute, cuddly, and manageable. Although He came as a baby, He didn't stay a baby. One day He will return to establish His Kingdom, to which all are invited to join.

Peace Has Come - Prince of Peace Christmas Series

Many parents will tell their kids this Christmas that "it's not about the gifts." That's only partially true. Christmas is not about the billions of dollars spent at malls and on candy canes, but it is about one gift in particular: the gift of God's Son. Jesus creates peace between God and man, but like any gift, it's only yours if you receive it.

Emergency Response System - In Our Day Series

Don't expect something from someone if you haven't told them you expect it. Unvoiced expectations aren't fair. Similarly, it's unrealistic to expect something from God that you rarely - if ever - ask for. Our need for revival is glaring and blatant, which means that our prayers for revival should be faith-filled and persistent. God moves when His people pray.

This Is An Emergency - In Our Day Series

Like a fire alarm or pepper spray, the phrase, "This is an emergency!" is reserved for only extreme circumstances. However, as we take inventory of our current spiritual state (personally and nationally), we are clearly in a state of emergency. God's intervention requires that we own up to what we've done and ask Him to get us back on track.

The End... Or Is It?

Obituary, funeral, afterlife - all those words describe your future. The reality is that just like we were all born, we will all die. Like Elijah & Elisha, with our final dying breaths, we should be speaking in faith and leaving a legacy of faith that will outlast our time on earth. The end of your life on earth doesn’t have to be the end of the impact your life will have.

Silence Is Not An Option - Troublemakers Series

Fire insurance isn't something you get real excited about. You purchase it so your stuff can be replaced in case of a fire - no big deal. Unfortunately, many people treat salvation similarly. They do it for themselves so they won't burn, but they don't see a need to be real excited about it. If you really understand it, you'll realize that silence is not an option.

One God Fits All - Troublemakers Series

What is stressing you out? Maybe it’s something small like paying rent or fixing your car; or it could be something big like a disease or death. Regardless of the size or seeming level of impossibility, rest in the fact that nothing is beyond the sovereignty and sight of God. He sees all and knows all.

Guest Speaker Steve Dirks

Shoot, Get a Friend! - Guest Speaker Pastor Frank Ramseur

Suicide Prevention - Troublemakers Series

Sin is slow suicide. Left unchecked, it’s like a deadly disease eating you from the inside out. Whether your sin is visible to others or hidden from sight, God sees it and is able to cure it. However, your pride can prevent the cure. Humble yourself and come to God on His terms, not yours – He is the cure!

The Great Exchange - Troublemakers Series

Gift exchanges can be fun if you end up on the receiving end of a generous giver, but disappointing, if not. God is the most generous giver. The Bible says that all good gifts come from God, and He has proven that throughout history by taking the little that we offer and exchanging it for something of eternal value.

Empty is the New Full - Troublemakers Series

When you buy groceries, you want the containers to be full of food, not empty. However, in contrast, God wants empty people. It’s only when we recognize our spiritual poverty and allow God to empty us that He can fill us and provide for us. Whatever you’re lacking, God can provide. Trust Him.

In His Grip - Troublemakers Series

“Sovereignty” is defined as “supreme and unrestricted power.” The sovereignty of God is seen in many ways. Whether it comes through miraculous intervention or a dramatic display of justice, we’re reminded that God is in control. Nothing escapes His notice or ability, which is all the more reason to trust Him!

Not Ready, But Willing - Topical Teaching

“I’ll do what God is calling me to when I have    [insert needed resource here]    and when I feel    [insert desired emotion here]   . Fill in those blanks however you want, but remember this: the things you think you need may be what stop you from glorifying God. God doesn’t need you to feel ready; He wants you to be willing.

Awaken Year 4 - Change Is Everywhere

Some people like change; many hate it. However, throughout Jesus’ ministry, when He stepped into a city, a house, a crowd, or someone’s life, everything changed: from death to life, blind to seeing, sinful to righteous… Faith in Christ isn’t just about a different eternal destination; it’s about a new way of living.

Writing Your Eulogy - Troublemakers Series

Like it or not, the way you are living, the people you are investing in, and the person or things you are worshiping are creating the content for your eulogy. One day when you’re gone, all that will be left is what you did while on earth. Learn from Elijah & Elisha what it looks like to live a life that leaves an impact.

Death Valley - Troublemakers Series

Being on the peak is fun, but a valley accompanies every mountaintop. The journey through the valley isn’t an option, but your response to it is. Elijah, a great man of faith, dealt with discouragement after a victory, but as we should learn, the answer is found in taking our eyes off of us, and placing them on God. 

Stop the Dance! - Troublemakers Series

Vomit. It’s a very graphic word that describes the motion sickness you give God by dancing back and forth between God and the world (Revelation 3:16). Elijah challenged Israel to stop the dance between God and Baal, and the same is true today. Don’t try to live for the world and God – choose one and commit. 

Expect the Unexpected - Troublemakers Series

What do ravens, a widow, and a resurrection have to do with obedience and prayer? More than you may think. Elijah’s obedience and prayers unlocked supernatural provision and power from unexpected sources. Since the Bible says Elijah was “a man with a nature like ours,” the same can be true for you!

Praying with a New Perspective - Topical

When you understand that God is your Father, it will transform the way you pray. Since God is our Father, we can approach Him with confidence knowing that He has our best in mind. He may not always answer how you want, but His way is best!

The Context of Community - Topical Teaching

The parts of a statement that surround a word influence its meaning – it’s called “context.” The idea is similar for a Christian. The context of the community you are surrounded by greatly impacts how and why you function. Don’t neglect the power of Christ-centered community: it defines and helps fulfill your purpose.

Worthy - Topical Teaching

Worship, in its most basic form, is saying that something or someone is worthy of what you are offering to them. As Christians, there are a few basic things that should form the foundation of our worship of God. Although some do these things out of obligation or religious duty, our real motivation should simply be that God is worthy of whatever we give to Him. So worship Him with joy, because... He's WORTHY!

Leaving Love For Lust - LoveJoySex

Although Solomon began marriage well, he didn’t finish well. He traded love for lust and riches. Throughout the life of your marriage, temptations and distractions will fight for your attention, and against your loyalty. Stay focused on Jesus and remember that regardless of how you started, you can finish well!

I Love You To Death - LoveJoySex

“I love you to death” is a phrase people toss around, but it accurately describes the love God intended for marriage. Love and marriage weren’t intended to start and stop multiple times, but to be unquenchable flames that last a lifetime. In that case, guard your purity and prepare to give yourself to your spouse only.

Never Stop Dating - LoveJoySex

Dating can be exhilarating, but it can also be exhausting. You may have thought your dating days were over when you got married, but they’re just beginning. For the rest of your marriage, you need to pursue romance and friendship with your spouse in creative ways. Each day is a new day to demonstrate your love.

The Marriage Bed - LoveJoySex

Sex is a God-given gift, reserved for marriage, to strengthen an already-existing bond. However…sex isn’t only for the honeymoon. As the marriage grows, so should sex, continuing to deepen and strengthen the relationship. “Marriage is honorable…and the bed undefiled,” so indulge your appetite! Bon Appétit!

When The Dust Settles - LoveJoySex

Disagreements are part of marriage. Sometimes differing personalities cause the conflict; sometimes it’s selfishness. If selfishness wounds, forgiveness can bandage it up. When conflicts arise, strengthen your marriage and bring depth to your love by being quick to forgive and reaffirm your love.

Happily Ever After? - LoveJoySex

Typical movie weddings end as the couple rides into the sunset with the words “Happily Ever After.” Although dating, engagement, and the wedding night were exhilarating, there’s a lot more that goes on after that…and it’s not all happy. All marriages have conflict. Be prepared for it, and learn to quickly resolve it.

Naked and Unashamed - LoveJoySex

Sex scenes in the Bible are different than sex scenes on TV. In the Bible, there’s no need to turn the page, change the channel, or feel guilty. They were included as examples for us. Sex is mutually pleasurable and God-glorifying when done within marriage. So start slowly, drink deeply, and glorify God!

"I Do" - LoveJoySex

The wedding is an exciting day filled with anticipation, nerves, and celebration. However, many couples make the mistake of preparing more for the wedding than for the marriage. Be filled with integrity and prayer as you pursue a spouse, then make sure the wedding, honeymoon, and marriage are unforgettable!

For Better or For Worse - LoveJoySex Series

Small talk is fine for a stranger you just met, but when it comes to the person you’re committing your life to, you must go deep. A maturing relationship will require time together, full disclosure of who you are, and a commitment to work together to overcome obstacles. Are you committed? Prove it to them.

Love is in the Air - LoveJoySex Series

Dating and courtship should be a rush…but they shouldn’t be rushed. Attraction can masquerade as attachment and commitment, causing some people to dive in too quickly. Take time to get to know someone in and out, as you prayerfully consider God’s direction and timing for your relationships. His way is best.

Looking For Love - LoveJoySex Series

Everywhere you look from “reality” TV to romantic comedies, and from Disney princesses to pop culture, people are looking for love. Unfortunately, most people go about it wrong. Attraction is natural, but you need to be prayerful, patient, and Godly in your approach. Don’t rush, and definitely don’t settle.

Sex Ed - LoveJoySex Series

SEX. It was God’s idea. He created it for our pleasure and His glory. However, like humans do, we’ve perverted what He intended for good, resulting in deep, long-lasting consequences. It’s time to turn to God’s Word to educate ourselves on how far we’ve strayed from God’s plan and how to get back to it.

FRAMEWORK: Recap and Q&A

The Awaken Church Pastors have a roundtable discussion and Q&A time as they go over the 10 different Framework Series topics: Salvation, God, The Bible, Prayer & Fasting, God's Will, Grey Areas, Family, Church, Possessions, Evangelism.

EVANGELISM: Rescued People Rescue People

If you won the lottery, everyone would know it – you wouldn’t be able to keep quiet. With Jesus, we’ve won a lottery of eternal proportions, and we can’t afford to keep quiet. We were rescued from sin so that we can help rescue others. Swallow your pride, speak up, and give the world what they need: JESUS!

POSSESSIONS: The Joy of Re-Gifting

Re-gifting may be looked down on in pop culture, but God encourages it. We’re not talking about the sweater from your grandma, but about spiritual and financial gifts from God. They were given to us so we can re-gift them to others for their benefit and God’s glory! Don’t be stingy – giving is a joy and an honor!

CHURCH: Planted in the House of God (Psalm 92:12-15)

Many people have turned "church shopping" into an ongoing way of life. Church is often a commodity that is consumed instead of a community they are committed to. Let's change that! The house of God exists for your growth and God's glory, but that can only begin by getting rooted and staying committed.

FAMILY: Relatives, Not Roommates

"Do I have to obey my mom?" "Should I spank my kids?" "What do I do if my husband is a jerk?" Believe it or not, our faith in Christ deeply impacts our family relationships. You are related to them, so you should strive to relate well with them! The Bible is our guideline for all things family, so dive in, then live it out.

Awaken Easter 2013: Of First Importance

Everywhere we look, we are bombarded with messages: save the dolphins, trees, whales, and the ozone layer. Buy this. Rent that. Lease these. Billboards, commercials, previews - they're everywhere. Don't let the clutter drown out the message that is of first importance: Jesus died for your sins so that you could live! That truth changes everything.

Gray Areas: Honoring God When It's Not Black & White

Many of God's commands for us are in black and white, which are easy to enforce; but what about the gray areas? Can I smoke? Should I get a tattoo? Is drinking a little ok, if I don't drink too much? PG-13? R? NC-17? They may not be directly mentioned, but God gave us the tools honor Him, even in the gray areas.

God's Will: It's Not A Scavenger Hunt

Too many people have turned the pursuit of God’s will into a cosmic scavenger hunt, aimlessly bouncing from one task to the next. Good news: God has His will for your life mapped out. It’s not lost, and it’s not complicated, but it might not be what you expected. Get saved, get in the Word, and get to it!

PRAYER & FASTING: Shake The Gates of Hell

Whether you realize it or not, there is a spiritual battle being waged all around us. God has given us weapons for the battle, but instead of using prayer and fasting to communicate with God, people use them to be seen by men. It’s time that we harness the power of prayer and fasting to shake the gates of hell!

The Bible - It's Worth It

Guest Speaker Andy Deane about about the Bible and that "God's word is WORTH IT." It's worth out time; our energy; our thoughts; our conversation; and anything that it requires to help us discover the precious treasure that God wants to give us in His word.

GOD: Personal & Profound

We serve ONE God who exists in THREE Persons. People have tried to illustrate His 3-in-1 nature by using an egg (shell, white, and yolk) or water (liquid, solid, steam), but all illustrations fall short. His Trinitarian nature reminds us that He is personally acquainted with us and profoundly inexplicable!

Salvation: The Starting Line

Salvation is a one-time event, but also an ongoing lifestyle and a future reward. It’s not just something you did once, but it’s something God is still doing in you. He is preparing you for glory, but to get there, you have to begin at the starting line: salvation by grace through faith. God begins it and He will complete it.

1. A One-Time Event – vs. 13

2. A Life-Long Process – vs. 13

3. A Long-Lasting Reward – vs. 14

God's Final Words - Revelation 22:18-21

If you began painting on sculptures and canvases in an art gallery, you’d be arrested for vandalism. Who are you to add or take away from the art? The final words of Revelation remind us that God’s Word is exactly the way He wants it to be – no more, no less. You can’t pick and choose. Believe it all and live by it.

The End is Near - Revelation 22:6-17

Many people use the book of Revelation as a platform for discussion and debate. However, Jesus Himself said that those are not the reasons it was written. Revelation should inspire us to repent, obey, and evangelize more than ever before. The end is near; time is short; hell is hot. Do not delay!

Happily Ever After - Revelation 22:1-5

Regardless of the plot or the characters, it seems that most Disney movies and chick flicks end the same way: happily ever after. The only time that will really be true though, is when we finally enter heaven. Creation will be restored, the curse will be lifted, and we will be enabled to live for Jesus like never before!

There's No Place Like Home - Revelation 21:9-27

Although there will be many familiar things about heaven that are similar to earth, everything including the walls and streets get an upgrade! Heaven is a glorious, eternal reminder of God’s grace that He lavishes on His people. When we get to heaven, we can really say, “There’s NO place like home!''

The City of Cities - Revelation 21:1-8

Imagine a place where death, pain, and tears are never experienced again. Sound too good to be true? It’s not. Jesus is preparing a place for us to live with Him for eternity, where sin and its consequences are non-existent. It’s free to us because it cost Jesus everything. Give your life to Jesus to join the party!

Stir It Up

As we bing the new year of 2013, Pastor Kevin Miller gives a challenge to stir up our city, out church and start a revival that starts with a personal revival in our own hearts first