NewCity Orlando Sermons

Kenneth Dyches, a Pastoral Resident at NewCity Orlando, explores the powerful contrasts in Hebrews 12:18-29 between Mount Sinai and Mount Zion. He highlights the shift from fear to joyful access to God through Christ, emphasizing the significance of living as citizens of an unshakeable kingdom. Kenneth encourages listeners to approach worship with reverence and gratitude, illustrating how divine grace transforms our relationship with God. His reflections invite a deeper understanding of faith, resilience, and the hope found in Jesus' sacrifice.

In this theologically rich and pastorally grounded sermon on Hebrews 12:1–17, Rev. Dr. Michael Allen explores the discipline of the Lord as a key marker of our identity as beloved children of God. Drawing from the great “cloud of witnesses” in Hebrews 11 and the example of Jesus, Dr. Allen calls the church to run the race of faith with perseverance, eyes fixed on Christ, who endured the cross for the joy set before Him. He unpacks how God’s discipline is not punishment but a fatherly training that forms us in holiness, shaping us to share in His righteousness and peace.Throughout the message, Dr. Allen urges believers to resist discouragement and spiritual complacency, reminding us that our trials are not meaningless—they are signs of divine sonship. With pastoral clarity, he challenges us to lift our drooping hands and strengthen weak knees, pressing forward in grace and striving for peace and holiness in community.

A powerful exploration of faith unfolds, showcasing biblical heroes like Gideon and Abraham, who embody unwavering belief in God's promises. The sermon emphasizes that true faith isn't about immediate outcomes but is a daily commitment to trust in the unseen. It delves into the longing for a heavenly home and how this perspective can inspire transformative change in our lives. Additionally, the narrative contrasts redemption with contamination, highlighting the hope found in God's stories despite our struggles. Faith is portrayed as a journey of identity transformation grounded in divine grace.

In this sermon from NewCity Orlando’s Hebrews: Unshakeable series, Associate Pastor Benjamin Kandt explores Hebrews 11:1–6, focusing on the nature of true faith. He unpacks how faith is not merely wishful thinking but a confident trust in the unseen promises of God, grounded in His character. Drawing on examples from the early chapters of Genesis, Pastor Benjamin highlights that a life pleasing to God is rooted in faith — a trust that shapes how we live, worship, and relate to God daily.This message challenges listeners to examine the foundation of their faith, encouraging them to move beyond cultural assumptions about belief toward a biblically anchored, enduring trust in God's Word. Pastor Benjamin calls the church to live by faith, holding fast to the unseen realities promised by God, and to draw near to Him with full assurance.

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.