NewCity Orlando Sermons

This uplifting message dives into Thomas' story, showcasing Jesus' compassionate response to doubt and skepticism. Rather than shaming him, Jesus invites Thomas to explore his wounds, highlighting the grace found in vulnerability. The discussion emphasizes that faith is not just blind belief but a journey rooted in love and community. Listeners are encouraged to confront their struggles and embrace the invitation to deeper belief, leading to personal restoration and joy in the presence of the risen Christ.

Explore the powerful imagery of Jesus as the Good Shepherd, emphasizing His intimate knowledge of His flock and sacrificial love. Reflect on the importance of confidence when approaching God and the deep connections within community. A compelling personal story about familial bonds showcases advocacy and support across challenges. Learn about overcoming shame through prayer and scripture, while the value of gathering to strengthen faith and encourage one another emerges as a vital theme in navigating hardships.

Pastoral Resident Kenny Dyches explores the inadequacies of the Old Testament sacrificial system compared to modern life's reliance on various systems. He highlights the futility of self-reliant spirituality and emphasizes resting in Jesus' ultimate sacrifice. The discussion also touches on personal battles with anxiety and the importance of surrendering control for peace. Lastly, listeners are encouraged to create life-giving systems that reinforce their relationship with God, paving the way for genuine connection and spiritual renewal.

In this sermon from Hebrews 8, Pastor Benjamin Kandt explores the profound truth that God doesn't just manage the gap between heaven and earth—He closes it through Jesus. Drawing from the imagery of the tabernacle, Pastor Ben shows how God's desire has always been to dwell with His people. Just as Moses was commanded to build a tent patterned after heaven, we too are called to “heavenize” earth by following Jesus and forming communities of disciples who embody God’s presence. The church, made up of living stones, becomes the spiritual house where heaven meets earth—not through bricks and rituals, but through Spirit-formed lives.The sermon also unpacks the better promises of the new covenant: new hearts, new belonging, new intimacy, and new mercy. Unlike the old covenant, which revealed the gap but couldn’t bridge it, the new covenant transforms us from the inside out by the Holy Spirit. This indwelling presence of God is the ultimate gift, empowering us to reflect heaven in our workplaces, relationships, and communities. Pastor Ben reminds us that we’re not just attending church—we are the church, the dwelling place of God Himself, being formed into a palace where He desires to live.

In a heartfelt farewell sermon, the speaker reflects on humanity's quest for status, security, and significance. Drawing parallels between ancient priests and modern life, he highlights the fragility of earthly pursuits. The figure of Melchizedek is explored, revealing Jesus as the perfect, eternal High Priest. The discussion touches on the fleeting nature of status, using Queen Elizabeth II as an example. Ultimately, the message emphasizes that true security and significance can only be found in Jesus, who offers unwavering support and love.

Assistant Pastor Ryan Gawrych continues our Hebrews series, preaching from Hebrews 5:11-6:20. Pastor Ryan challenges listeners to confront barriers that hinder spiritual maturity, identifying complacency, empty religious practices, isolation, self-reliance, and skepticism as significant obstacles. He encourages the congregation to move beyond spiritual infancy and complacency by actively engaging in their faith through practice and community involvement.The sermon underscores that spiritual maturity comes from active discipleship, not passive familiarity with religious rituals. Pastor Ryan emphasizes that true faith involves fully placing one's hope in Jesus, overcoming barriers that keep believers from fully trusting Him. Jesus is presented as the steadfast anchor for the soul, who overcomes every spiritual barrier—complacency, religion, isolation, self-reliance, and skepticism—ultimately securing believers' eternal hope through His unchangeable promise and priesthood.

Pastor of Formation & Mission Benjamin Kandt continues our sermon series on Hebrews, preaching from Hebrews 4:14-5:10, emphasizing two main commands: "hold fast" and "draw near." He highlights that believers facing trials and cultural pressures should firmly hold onto their confession of faith, openly affirming Jesus as their Savior, even when it's difficult. Jesus, as our "great high priest," uniquely qualifies for this role because He is sinless, fully human, and has personally experienced trials and temptations. Jesus learned obedience through suffering, showing believers how to faithfully endure their own hardships by trusting, honestly expressing their desires, and ultimately surrendering their will to God.Furthermore, believers are invited to confidently "draw near" to God, trusting Jesus’ sympathy and gentleness toward human weakness. Unlike humans who often respond harshly or critically, Jesus responds with compassion. This gentle, sympathetic posture invites Christians to approach God's "throne of grace" freely, expecting mercy and timely help in their moments of need.

Kenny Dyches explores how Jesus brings freedom, family, and a hopeful future using the freediving analogy. Fear can drag us down like gravity, but clinging to Jesus is our lifeline. He emphasizes that faith needs to be applied actively in our lives. Community support is crucial in overcoming isolation and fear, just like mangrove trees thrive together. The sermon encourages embracing our identity as God's children while recognizing Jesus' unique role as our leader and high priest, inviting us all back into a full and rich life.

In this sermon, Pastor of Formation & Mission Benjamin Kandt explores Hebrews 2, presenting a four-part framework to explain the gospel: God made it all, we lost it all, Jesus gave it all, and we get it all. He begins by reflecting on the Psalm 8 reference in Hebrews, highlighting the profound truth that humanity was created with glory and honor, entrusted with God’s authority over creation. However, Pastor Kandt contrasts this biblical view with secular perspectives, arguing that while secularism offers a diminished view of human worth, Scripture presents humanity as divinely endowed with purpose and dignity.He then addresses the fall of humanity, explaining how sin led to humanity losing its authority, effectively handing power over to the devil. This brokenness is visible in the fear, anxiety, and shame that permeate human experience. Yet, the heart of the message is the redemptive work of Jesus, who took on human flesh to destroy the power of sin and death. Pastor Kandt emphasizes that Jesus’ sacrifice restores what was lost, offering believers unshakable confidence in God’s love and authority. The sermon concludes by reminding listeners that Jesus is not ashamed to call believers His brothers and sisters, freeing them from fear and shame so they can live boldly, fully embracing the victory and glory granted through Christ.

In this opening message of NewCity Orlando’s spring sermon series on Hebrews, Pastor of Formation & Mission Benjamin Kandt lays a foundation for understanding the book’s central theme: Jesus over everything. Preaching from Hebrews 1:1–2:4, he highlights seven ways Christ is superior—He is the heir, creator, radiance, imprint, sustainer, savior, and Lord.Through vivid illustrations, historical context, and deep theological insights, Pastor Benjamin unpacks how the supremacy of Jesus calls us to draw near rather than drift away. He challenges us to see Jesus not merely as useful, but as beautiful—worthy of our highest love and devotion. Drawing on themes of perseverance, worship, and trust, he reminds us that in a world constantly vying for our attention and allegiance, Christ alone is unshakable. Whether you feel close to God or find yourself drifting, this sermon calls you to reorient your heart and life around the One who holds all things together.Whether you're familiar with Hebrews or exploring it for the first time, this sermon will encourage you to fix your eyes on Christ, who reigns over all.For more resources, visit newcityorlando.com.