Time of Grace With Pastor Mike Novotny
Time of Grace is a Christian ministry that produces media content including television, radio, podcasts, and print publications. The podcast 'Time of Grace With Pastor Mike Novotny' focuses on teaching biblical topics in an approachable and relatable way. It aims to make the Bible clear and understandable for both believers and those exploring faith. The ministry's mission is to point people to Jesus through various media formats.
Episodes
Sneaky Lies Christians Believe: "What Goes Around Comes Around"
“What goes around comes around” sounds fair. But is it true? In this message, Pastor Mike breaks down one of the most common beliefs about justice, karma, and consequences to see how the truth is both deeper and more freeing than we expect.Do you want to know more about God? Or know someone who would like to know God? Get a free download of the book, "The Basics: God. You. Jesus. Faith."
Sneaky Lies Christians Believe: "Happy Wife, Happy Life"
What sounds like smart advice—“happy wife, happy life”—actually oversimplifies what it takes for a marriage to thrive. Pastor Mike unpacks the truth behind this one-sided view. Whether you’re married, single, or somewhere in between, this sermon reveals what leads to a stronger bond—and how seeking God can transform any relationship from the inside out.Do you want to know more about God?
Sneaky Lies Christians Believe: "Boys Will Be Boys"
“Boys will be boys” sounds innocent—until it becomes an excuse for bad behavior. Pastor Mike explores the God-designed differences between men and women, young and old, and how those distinctions can either divide us or strengthen us. He shows us how the Bible invites us to grow into the kind of people who reflect God’s grace through every stage of life.Do you want to know more about God?
Jesus: Extended Cut: Jesus Is Still Here
Most people know that Jesus rose from the dead—but what happened next? He didn’t fade into the background; he stepped into his role as King. This message opens up a part of the story that often gets skipped, showing that Jesus is still active, present, and in charge. If you've ever wondered what Jesus is doing now, this will give you a whole new perspective.Do you want to know more about
Jesus: Extended Cut: Showing God's Love to Others
Believing in Jesus is the starting point—but it’s not the whole story. Grace shapes your everyday life, your purpose, and the way you treat people, especially when it’s hard. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about living real, bold love in a world that needs it. If you've ever wondered how faith makes a difference, this is where it gets real.Do you want to know more about God? Or know so
Jesus: Extended Cut: You're Still Needed
If you’ve ever wondered whether your mistakes disqualify you from God's plans and purpose for you, that question is more common than you think. This message looks at someone who messed up—and still got called back by Jesus to do his work. Jesus doesn’t push you away because of your past—he forgives you and continues to give you value and worth.Do you want to know more about God? Or know s
Jesus: Extended Cut: Wrestling With Doubt
If you’ve ever had real questions about Christianity, you’re not alone. Doubt isn't something to hide but something to explore. Through the story of someone who struggled to believe even after seeing Jesus face-to-face, Pastor Mike shows you how questions aren’t the end of faith—they’re often the beginning.Do you want to know more about God? Or know someone who would like to know God? Get
Jesus: Extended Cut: The Right Way to See Jesus
Most people have an edited version of Jesus—miracles, cross, empty tomb, done. But in the extended cut, Jesus shows you even more truth that will give you confidence to believe. This message gets real about sin and why seeing it through Jesus’ eyes is the only way to understand grace. Because when you see sin clearly, you finally see just how good Jesus really is.Do you want to know more
God's Promises to You: He Will Make Everything New
A new, perfect world where fear, pain, and suffering are gone. That's God's promise in this message that concludes this series. Pastor Mike teaches of how God's promise to make everything new offers both peace for today and a beautiful future beyond this life. Do you want to know more about God? Or know someone who would like to know God? Get a free download of the book, "The Basics: God.
God's Promises to You: He Will Use This for Your Good
"Living my best life" is a phrase thrown around in modern culture. But maybe more often than not, we feel lacking and circumstances keep us from living our best lives. Thankfully, Pastor Mike reminds us, God is with us and will use even our struggles and tough times for our good.Do you want to know more about God? Or know someone who would like to know God? Get a free download of the book
God's Promises to You: He Will Help
Being a Christian is both easy and hard. Jesus lived a perfect life, died for all sin, and rose for us; there's nothing we need to do to earn heaven. That's the easy part. But loving God above everything can seem difficult. In this message, Pastor Mike teaches from the book of Hebrews to remind us of a very important truth: God will help us through the hard parts of being a Christian.Do y
God's Promises to You: He Will Be There
Sometimes we may feel as though we're not blessed financially. Even though we live in a prosperous age, many factors determine the kinds of financial struggles we have. In the first message of this new series, "God's Promises to You," Pastor Mike explains a true and comforting promise of God. Namely, despite any struggle we have, God will be there for us.
Jesus Reels: The Story Doesn't End With Easter
Dead doesn’t stay dead when Jesus shows up—and that changes everything. Whether you need proof in your head or peace in your heart, whether you need something intellectual or emotional, Easter is your day. It gives you all these things AND the most important thing—eternal life with Jesus.
Jesus Reels: Flip the Script on Your Life
Jesus' Palm Sunday ride into Jerusalem wasn't the kind of entrance you'd expect from a king—and that’s the point. Everything about how Jesus showed up flipped the script on power, purpose, and what it means to follow someone worth everything. Jesus showed up in a way that invites us to see him with fresh eyes and rediscover the joy of who he really is. It’s not loud, flashy, or expected—b
Jesus Reels: What You Give Up Is Worth the Cost
What’s the point of gaining everything if it costs you the one thing that matters most? In this message, Jesus challenges the way we think about success, sacrifice, and what we’re really living for. It’s a call to rethink what we chase—and why. If you’ve ever felt torn between the life you want and the one Jesus invites you into, this message will help you wrestle with the cost, the rewar
Jesus Reels: A Steady Foundation
Traditions come and go, styles change, preferences shift, but Jesus points us to something solid—God’s Word. This message reminds us that while church traditions can be helpful, they’re not the foundation of faith. Jesus calls us to hold tightly to truth, not just routines. If you're looking for something real to build your life on, this is your reminder that God's Word is steady, unchang
Jesus Reels: Don't Just Follow; Lock In
“Following” usually means scrolling past someone’s highlight reel. But Jesus calls us to something entirely different. Pastor Mike explores what it really meant when Jesus said, “Follow me”—and why some ordinary guys dropped everything to do it. You’ll see that following Jesus isn’t about casually liking his content but living under his direction. It’s not always easy, but it’s real, it's
Forgotten Blessings
How blessed you feel may depend on what you consider to be blessings, which means you may forget that you have blessings right in front of you every day. Pastor Mike challenges you to shift your mindset and open your eyes to the really good things from God that you often don't think about. In turn, you can become more grateful and feel more blessed.
Lonely Less: The Church Connection
In an age of podcasts, playlists, and on-demand spirituality, it’s easier than ever to engage with faith from afar. But Pastor Mike challenges us to think about what might be missing when we do. This message takes a closer look at what happens when we move beyond consuming content and begin showing up in community. The result is a deeper reflection on presence, connection, and what God de
Lonely Less: The Friend Connection
We live in a world where friendship is both highly valued and surprisingly hard to maintain. This message turns our attention to the kinds of relationships that help us feel known—and why some fall short. It slows us down to consider what builds real connection and what quietly pulls us apart. At the center is a deeper truth: No human friendship can replace the one we were made for first.
Lonely Less: The Family Connection
Family can bring deep connection—and deep complexity. Pastor Mike helps us think about the family relationships that shape us most, for better or worse, and how God speaks into them. This message points us toward a quieter strength that can reshape how we show up humbly at home.
Lonely Less: The God Connection
Loneliness can show up even in the busiest, most connected parts of life. In the first message of the "Lonely Less" series, Pastor Mike teaches about where true connection begins—and what might be missing in the places we often look for it. Drawing from both Scripture and everyday experience, this message gently reframes the way we think about being alone. It invites us to consider a pres
No More Mediocre Me: On Purpose, With Purpose
It’s easy to feel less than when someone else’s strengths seem so much clearer than yours. But Pastor Mike digs into why your unique wiring isn’t accidental or interchangeable. It's designed by God intentionally. With honesty and biblical clarity, this message helps break down the lies that keep us stuck in comparison or frustration. It’s a meaningful invitation to recognize your gifts, n
No More Mediocre Me: Breaking Up With Busy
We often talk about being busy like it’s just a season we're going through, but what if it has become our way of life? Pastor Mike explores the spiritual cost of constantly running at full speed. Drawing from the wisdom in Ecclesiastes, this message offers a clear, thoughtful challenge to the pace we've come to accept as normal.
No More Mediocre Me: Resetting Your Digital Life
Our daily habits are surrounded by screens and technology that shape our lives in ways we rarely stop to notice. Using one of Jesus’ parables, Pastor Mike raises a deeper question beneath the scrolls, streams, and notifications: What are you making space for—and what might you be missing? This message offers time to pause, reflect, and consider what’s quietly shaping the direction of your
No More Mediocre Me: More Than Just "Spiritual"
Pastor Mike launches this new sermon series by taking aim at one of the most accepted spiritual trends of our time—the kind that feels personal, flexible, and easy to control. But is it actually leading you anywhere solid? Rooted in Psalm 16, this message challenges you to consider who holds the authority in your life—and whether that’s bringing the peace and purpose you’re hoping for.
Tackling Tough Topics #3
Pastor Mike is back with the annual special episode where he tackles tough questions from people like you. Hear what the Bible says about today's difficult topics.
God's Kind of Christmas: More Than a Holiday
Christmas is filled with moments of joy—family, gifts, traditions—but there’s always something that keeps it from being perfect. No matter how much you love the season, it never fully satisfies. That’s because Christmas was never meant to be the ultimate source of joy. The story of the wisemen reminds you that true joy and peace aren’t found in a holiday but in a Savior who is worthy of y
God's Kind of Christmas: Can I Really Trust God?
Promises are easy to make but hard to keep. We’ve all experienced disappointment when people let us down. But what about God? Does he actually follow through on what he says? The Christmas story isn’t just a tradition; it’s proof that God keeps his promises. What about the promises he has made to you? Pastor Mike explores why Christmas can give you real confidence that God is trustworthy,
God's Kind of Christmas: Following When It's Hard
Mary and Joseph’s first Christmas wasn’t picture-perfect. It was confusing, costly, and filled with uncertainty. Yet instead of resisting God’s plan, they embraced it, even when it changed everything. What about you? When life doesn’t go as planned, when faith asks more of you than you expected, how do you respond? This message explores what it means to trust God, even when it’s difficult
God's Kind of Christmas: Real Hope for Real People
Christmas isn’t just a heartwarming tradition—it’s history. But is it really for you? Many wonder if God’s love extends to people who feel unworthy, overlooked, or weighed down by the past. As you explore the very first page of the New Testament in this message, you’ll discover that Jesus came from a long line of nobodies and notorious sinners—proof that Christmas is for the broken, the s
Behind the Series: God's Kind of Christmas
What if Christmas isn’t just about what we’ve made it—but about something deeper, more human, and more hopeful? In this sneak peek at the upcoming sermon series "God's Kind of Christmas," Pastor Mike and Amber explore the tension between cultural expectations and the surprising heart of the original Christmas story. They speak candidly about the honest questions many people have—especiall
How Do I Fix My Relationship With God?
Most religions teach that if we mess up a relationship with the divine, we have to fix it. If our karma is bad or our scale shows more bad deeds than good or if we've broken a few too many commandments, we'd better make up for it. And that's what makes Christianity different: God reconciled us. But what does that actually mean? Pastor Mike digs deep into one of the most emotional words in
Why Does God Allow Evil?
How can a good God allow suffering and evil in the world? Pastor Mike confronts that very objection, diving into the painful realities many face daily, from personal loss to global tragedies. But while it can feel overwhelming, Pastor Mike encourages a fresh perspective: Perhaps your struggles could lead to deeper faith and understanding.
War Zone: Fighting to Share the Faith
In our spiritual war, it's not just important to know the gospel—but to share it. But for many of us, fear keeps us silent. What if we say the wrong thing? What if it ruins a relationship? Even the apostle Paul, one of history’s boldest evangelists, asked for prayers to share the gospel fearlessly. In this message, Pastor Mike helps you learn how to overcome fear, seize the right moments,
War Zone: Using the Greatest Weapon -- Prayer
Spiritual battles aren’t won with willpower alone—they’re won on our knees in prayer. Yet for many of us, prayer feels like a struggle. We forget, we feel unworthy, or we simply don’t know where to start. But in Ephesians 6, the apostle Paul reminds us that prayer isn’t just a part of the Christian life—it’s essential to standing firm against the enemy. In this message, you’ll discover wh
War Zone: Gearing Up for Victory
No soldier walks into battle without the right gear, and no Christian can stand strong without the armor of God. The enemy isn’t just attacking—you’re in a spiritual war whether you realize it or not. But God has provided everything you need to stand firm. In this message, Pastor Mike breaks down each piece of the armor of God from Ephesians 6 and shows how to “fit check” your faith daily
War Zone: Standing Strong in Your Fight
Spiritual warfare isn’t always obvious. Temptation doesn’t always look like something terrible. Often it’s disguised as something good taken too far. So how do you stand firm when the battle comes to you? In this message, Pastor Mike teaches you that one powerful verse from Ephesians 6 reveals how to prepare for “the day of evil” so that when it comes—not if, but when—you’ll be ready to s
War Zone: Winning the Battles You Can't See
Every day you wake up in the middle of a battle. The enemy isn’t firing bullets but lies, temptations, and distractions—scheming to pull you away from faith, hope, and the truth of God’s Word. The good news? You don’t have to fight alone. God gives you his strength, his armor, and his power to stand firm. In this kickoff to our series on spiritual warfare, you’ll learn why the key to vict
Behind the Series: War Zone
Spiritual warfare is real. As Pastor Mike and Amber Albee Swenson preview the new sermon series, "War Zone," they dive into spiritual warfare, unpacking what it means to fight daily battles that most of us can't even see. They open up about the unseen forces working against our efforts to love God and love others—and the practical ways we can push back. They unpack how staying anchored in
How Can I Resist Temptation?
So much of life hinges on this single thing we call self-control—because there are so many temptations that can overcome us. So how do we get more self-control? Pastor Mike zeroes in on two big ways that God helps us have more self-control.
Not So Scarlet Letters: L - Laziness
Some of us never stop working; some of us struggle to start. In a world that glorifies both hustle and comfort, how do we find the right balance? Today we dive into God’s design for work and rest—why doing too much can drain us, why doing too little can burden others, and how the cross of Jesus gives us both the motivation to work and the freedom to rest.
Not So Scarlet Letters: S - Slander
Words are everywhere—spoken, texted, posted, whispered. And yet for all the words we use, some have the power to build while others quietly destroy. Slander isn’t just a legal term or a political tactic; it’s what happens when our words assume, exaggerate, or tear down. Why do we do it? How does it affect our relationships? And what does God want to replace it with? Pastor Mike helps us s
Not So Scarlet Letters: I - Idolatry
Everyone worships something. Whether it’s success, relationships, comfort, control, or even our own opinions, there’s always something fighting for first place in our hearts. That’s what the Bible calls idolatry—not just statues and shrines but anything we fear, love, or trust in more than God. Today's message looks at how idols promise fulfillment but leave us empty and how only Jesus ca
Not So Scarlet Letters: G - Gluttony
Some sins are obvious, marked by shame and confession. But what about the ones we don’t think twice about—habits so ingrained in our lives that they no longer feel like sins at all? That's the premise of this new sermon series. The first message hones in on gluttony, where it’s not about the number on a scale but the posture of our hearts toward food. Could it be that our overindulgence,
Behind the Series: Not So Scarlet Letters
They may not make headlines, but gluttony, idolatry, slander, and laziness quietly shape our lives more than we’d like to admit. Pastor Mike and Amber preview the new sermon series, "Not So Scarlet Letters," and explore why these “less scandalous” sins can be just as damaging to our souls—especially when they become habits we justify, ignore, or even celebrate. Through humor, vulnerabilit
What if I Don't Understand the Bible?
The Bible is challenging to read. There are weird words and weird names in it. There’s an Old Testament and a New Testament. There are prophecies and prophets. And if you’re new to the Bible, if you’ve never deeply studied it, it can leave you confused. That's why in this message, Pastor Mike helps us learn how to approach the Bible. Spoiler: It's okay if we don't understand it right away
Almost Honest Christians: Still Need to Admit You Don't Understand
We all want to grow in faith, but sometimes pride gets in the way. When you don’t understand something about God, the Bible, or faith, it’s easier to fake it than admit it. But real growth happens when you're honest about what you don’t know. In this message, you'll see why God doesn’t want you to pretend—you grow stronger when you admit your questions and seek understanding. Because hone
Almost Honest Isn't Honest Enough: Still Need to Speak Up
Most of us don’t like confrontation. It’s awkward, uncomfortable, and there’s no guarantee it will go well. But when a fellow Christian is caught in sin, looking the other way isn’t love—it’s avoidance. In this message, you'll see how Jesus calls you to speak the truth in love, not to tear people down but to help them turn back to him. Because honest Christians don’t just confess their ow
Almost Honest Isn't Honest Enough: Still Need to Confess
You likely think of yourself as honest. So why is there that one struggle you keep to yourself? Here's the problem with that: Unconfessed sin doesn’t go away—it grows. In this message, you'll see why God calls you to confess—not just to him but to others—so you can find the freedom, healing, and grace he wants for you. Because almost honest isn’t honest enough.
Behind the Series: Almost Honest Isn't Honest Enough
Pastor Mike and Amber Albee Swenson explore the vital roles of honesty, vulnerability, and courage in the Christian journey, as they preview Pastor Mike's upcoming sermon series, "Almost Honest Isn't Honest Enough." They candidly discuss why confessing sins, engaging in thoughtful confrontation, and asking sincere questions are essential steps for spiritual growth and community health. To
ME on Team Jesus? : Even if I'm Broken?
What if you feel too broken with too much baggage? Can you still be saved? Pastor Mike walks us through the account of one of Jesus' closest female friends and shows us that no matter our stories, our struggles, or our secrets, it doesn’t matter how broken we might be—because the broken belong with Jesus.
ME on Team Jesus? : Even if I'm Angry?
Anger can do real damage to our relationships and our lives. So, Pastor Mike says, we need to ask ourselves: how are we going to deal with our anger? Or more important, what is God going to do with us before we blow up his blessings with our anger issues? Pastor Mike looks at the story of two brothers and how Jesus dealt with their anger—and how he can help us with ours too.
ME on Team Jesus? : Even if I'm Stressed?
We all know a highly organized person who loves checking boxes, planning everything, and getting things done, and we are blessed to have them in our lives. Maybe we ARE that person. But what happens when these strengths of organization and productivity are turned up too high? Diving into the account of two sisters in the Bible, Pastor Mike gives us three takeaways to help stressed overach
ME on Team Jesus? : Even if I'm Prideful?
We often have to be among the best to be chosen. But what if we're not the best? Or even close to it? Good thing for us that Jesus isn't like that. He didn't choose the best and the brightest. Instead, he picked people just like us: sinful, complicated people who sometimes aren't even considered good. Or, in the case of the apostle Peter, Jesus picked proud people who talked too much. WHY
Money: Generosity Changes Lives
The impact of generosity can transform your life and those around you. Pastor Mike concludes the series on money, teaching about the power of giving—whether through financial support, your time, or acts of kindness. By being generous, you become a reflection of God's own generosity to you.
Money: It's Not the Root of All Evil
We're facing a "generosity crisis." There's a staggering decline in charitable giving despite an increase in wealth. Why are people consumed by getting instead of giving? Pastor Mike looks at the famous verse from 1 Timothy 6 that talks about the love of money being the root of all kinds of evil, warning us of what happens if greed gets to our hearts.
About "Taboo Questions With Pastor M
Money: The Bible Says It's Not Yours
The Bible talks about money. A lot. So should we. Pastor Mike delves into the vital yet often overlooked conversation about money, exploring its dual nature as both a blessing and a potential challenge to your faith. Understanding the key principle of stewardship—everything you own is ultimately God's on loan—can transform your relationship with money.
About "Taboo Questions With Pastor M
Behind the Series: Money
Money. It's a topic many would rather avoid. But Pastor Mike and Amber Albee Swenson tackle it head on, addressing the fears and challenges many face in managing finances. They emphasize the spiritual nature of money struggles, encouraging listeners to view money as a tool entrusted by God rather than personal property. They also highlight practical steps like budgeting, generosity, and h
World Gone Mad: Obeying God = Blessings AND Hardships?
What kind of life do you expect God to give his most faithful followers? In Pastor Mike's last message from the book of Daniel, he explores your expectations of God through the story of Daniel in the lions' den. Drawing from Daniel's story, he helps you understand the importance of having unwavering faith—because you can expect both blessings and hardship when obeying God.
About "Taboo Qu
World Gone Mad: Faith Over Fear
What happens when you have to choose between pleasing others and staying true to your biblical faith? In Pastor Mike's second message from the book of Daniel, he uses the story of the three men in the fiery furnace to encourage you as you face your own tough decisions: What happens when you disappoint people by choosing to prioritize your faith? Learn how putting God first can reshape you
World Gone Mad: Stand Firm in Faith; Don't Conform
The societal pressures to conform to the way the world does things can be overwhelming. But Jesus calls us to be in the world, not of it. In this first message from Pastor Mike's new series from the book of Daniel, he encourages you to stand firm in your faith against the pressures to go along with cultural beliefs and behaviors that are not biblical. Using the story of Daniel and his fri
Behind the Series: World Gone Mad
Pastor Mike and Amber Albee Swenson preview the next sermon series that looks at the book of Daniel. They explore how Daniel faced immense challenges—from assimilation pressures to standing firm against idolatry. They highlight Daniel’s unwavering faith, humility, and courage as powerful examples for Christians today living in a world that often feels chaotic and hostile to truth. The dis
Revelation: A Perfect Ending for You
For those who are sick of something—sick of sins, sick of aches and pains you can't fix, sick of the worry in your life, sick of the injustice in the world—Pastor Mike's final message from the book of Revelation gives you the Bible's final promise: There's a whole new world at the end for the people of God where everything is good and perfect. Where do you turn to overcome feelings of wo
Revelation: Spoiler Alert—Jesus Wins!
The struggle seems real. Surveys show a growing disconnect from the church, and there's a stark decline in spiritual leaders, all while more people identify with no religion. You also wonder why you struggle so much with your own personal challenges. But instead of letting you live with the tension and suspense of what will happen amidst all this struggle, Jesus, who has a clear view of t
Revelation: When the World Hates You
How far would you go for Jesus? In a world where you will always be tempted to compromise, to sell out, and to cut theological corners, Pastor Mike's message today from the book of Revelation encourages you to stand firm in your faith so you know you are not marked by the beast and this world, but instead you are marked by God.Where do you turn to overcome feelings of worthlessness, fear,
Revelation: How to Defeat the Devil
Here's a hard truth: Satan knows you. The father of lies knows what tempts you and what will lead you astray. How do you combat him? In this new series that looks at the book of Revelation, Pastor Mike teaches that though the devil will attack you in various ways, you can overcome him. Uncover practical insights on how to protect your spirit and embrace the peace that comes from Jesus.Whe
Behind the Series: Revelation
Pastor Mike and Amber Albee Swenson are back with a preview of the new upcoming sermon series, "Revelation." They dive into the book of Revelation, a book many Christians avoid out of confusion or fear. But instead of avoiding it, Pastor Mike and Amber discuss how you should approach it: with the end in mind. Be comforted by how your story ends so you'll know how to begin each day and liv
Jesus Can: Give You Everlasting Life
What does Easter mean for your life? It's not just a story. It's an event, Pastor Mike says, that changes you—regardless of your baggage or brokenness. Seeing how Easter changes you starts with seeing how Jesus has always shown up for you.Where do you turn to overcome feelings of worthlessness, fear, depression, or anxiety? Your self is the last place you should look. But God’s help . .
Jesus Can: Give You the Greatest Gift Ever
Why should you celebrate Communion? What is Communion? For starters, Jesus gave us two miracles in Communion, or the Lord's Supper. And, Pastor Mike says, if you realize what these two miracles are, you will see and understand the greatest gift the universe has ever known.Where do you turn to overcome feelings of worthlessness, fear, depression, or anxiety? Your self is the last place yo
Jesus Can: Give You Confidence
Are you a confident person? Actually, the more important question according to Pastor Mike is: Do you consider yourself a spiritually confident person? Becoming a confident follower of Jesus starts with understanding the needs of your body and your soul.Where do you turn to overcome feelings of worthlessness, fear, depression, or anxiety? Your self is the last place you should look. But
Jesus Can: Give You Peace in Times of Trouble
What do you do when life gets scary? Do you question God and wonder if he’s working for your good? Can your faith withstand the trials? Pastor Mike teaches that if you know who Jesus is, you can have a peace that goes beyond understanding, even in your troubles. And knowing Jesus starts with recognizing these four keys about his identity. Do you feel out of place in this world, wondering
Behind the Series: Jesus Can
In this Behind the Series episode, Pastor Mike and Amber Albee Swenson give you a glimpse at the new sermon series, “Jesus Can.” They talk about the big idea—how you can't, but Jesus can—by looking at the real-life implications of Jesus’ miracles and teachings, diving into topics like finding peace in chaos, building confidence amid uncertainty, and understanding the significance of the L
Trends vs. Truth: "God Told Me"
How do we know if God is speaking to us or if it's just us feeling and thinking what our own hearts want to hear under the guise of "God told me"? Throughout the Bible, God spoke in different ways to different people, using a burning bush, a whisper, visions, even a talking donkey. How does God speak to us today? Pastor Mike teaches how God promised to speak personally to each of us.To he
Trends vs. Truth: "Self-Care"
"Self-care" simply means to care for one's self. And in today's world where so many people deal with burnout, self-care has become a trending topic. But how do we care for ourselves without falling into the danger zone of thinking of ourselves too much and not honoring God? What does God say about work and rest and how to find a balance? Pastor Mike teaches two big ideas that can help us
Trends vs. Truth: "Who Am I to Judge"
"Do not judge" is one of the most quoted passages in modern times. Because, culture tells us, who are we to judge others when we're not perfect either? But, Pastor Mike says, as counterintuitive as it seems, the Bible actually tells us to judge. Pastor Mike walks us through the Bible's teaching on judgment, giving us four parts on how to judge the right way. To help you stay rooted in God
Trends vs. Truth: "Love Is Love"
Just because we feel something doesn't make it right. So when we say that "love is love," what we're really doing is instinctively applying the terms and conditions of what we think love should be. But, Pastor Mike challenges, are we really qualified to define and impose those limits? Pastor Mike opens up the Bible to see what God says about love—to straight people, to gay people—and abou
Trends vs. Truth: "Be You"
Our modern culture proudly tells us to "be you"—because we're all different from one another and should embrace our uniqueness. But what does God think about "be you"? Does he want us to be true to ourselves? To look inside and to live that out? Pastor Mike says according to the Bible, God says, "Be you!" — but with an asterisk.To help you understand how to love like God, we have a new bo
Love Well: No Matter Who
Everyone loves someone. The challenge is loving everyone—that means not limiting your love to just those in your inner circle or who treat you well. Jesus calls you to that standard—to imitate the God who loves different people—and to serve your friends, enemies, and everyone in between.To help you understand how to love like God, we have a new book called A Better Love: God's Love Transf
Love Well: And Do What Needs to Be Done
Love is costly and sacrificial—that's why it's often difficult to experience and give love. So if you want more love in your relationships, Pastor Mike says, there are three important things you need.To help you understand how to love like God, we have a new book called A Better Love: God's Love Transforms You by Dr. Paul Kelm. This book cuts through the confusion on how the world views l
