Church of the City New York

Pastor Sam Gibson dives into the profound significance of the heart as the altar for desiring God's presence. He highlights how spiritual hunger can catalyze personal and communal renewal. Discussing common heart afflictions like deadness and distraction, he emphasizes the importance of surrendering to divine healing. Listeners are encouraged to maintain their 'altar' through practices like remembering Scripture and creating space for God. This journey is about transforming hearts in desperate dependence, not through self-effort.

Pastor Jon Tyson dives deep into the true meaning of Christmas as he addresses the profound need for salvation in a broken world. He critiques the superficiality of holiday sentimentality, emphasizing the urgency of divine intervention through Jesus. Exploring themes of human suffering and false hopes in leaders, he illustrates how Christ embodies dignity, mercy, and transformation. The discussion highlights the importance of narrative identity and the uplifting hope brought by embracing a redemptive story. Listeners are urged to look beyond despair towards the gifts of comfort, forgiveness, and new vision.

Pastor Suzy Silk dives into the significance of Jesus as the Messiah, highlighting God's unwavering faithfulness during Advent and Hanukkah. She contrasts the chaotic reality of Jesus' birth with idyllic nativity images, illuminating the Biblical prophecies fulfilled through Him. With a focus on the long view of history, she teaches that trusting in Jesus is the antidote to anxiety. Practical advice on prayer and gratitude is woven in, encouraging listeners to reshape their perspective and cling to hope amid challenges.

Pastor Jon explores the true meaning of greatness through Jesus' teachings. He contrasts modern culture's obsession with success against the humble, self-giving nature of Christ. By examining historical views of greatness, he highlights Jesus' descent from glory as the ultimate act of humility. The discussion challenges listeners to embrace childlike dependence and serve others without fear, while warning against spiritual pride. Overall, it’s a call to prioritize love and humility over recognition in today's competitive world.

Ralph Castillo, a member of the Church of the City care team, delivers an Advent sermon emphasizing Jesus as Immanuel, or "God with us." He explores how Jesus meets our core longings during the holiday season, addressing loneliness, grief, and anxiety. Ralph shares personal stories about mourning and joy, while citing research on the rising loneliness in society. He illustrates that Jesus' presence is the ultimate Christmas gift, inviting listeners to embrace this truth and find hope and comfort in God's tangible presence.

Pastor Sam Gibson delves into the metaphor of the Body of Christ, emphasizing unity through the Holy Spirit regardless of our backgrounds. He challenges the idealization of church, stressing the importance of engaging in the messy reality of community. The conversation covers sins that harm the Body and highlights the pathways to restoration, including love and humility. Emphasizing personal accountability, Sam invites communal confession, urging everyone to align under Christ's headship for true transformation.

Explore the powerful intersection of prayer and the workplace as leaders from major companies share their experiences. Discover why workplace prayer is crucial for fostering a positive mission. Hear firsthand how prayer gatherings began at Goldman Sachs, NBC, and The New York Times and the cultural changes that followed. Get practical tips for initiating prayer in your work environment and learn the importance of mentoring younger professionals in their faith journey. Join in a brief group prayer to invoke blessings for your workplace.

Pastor Jon Tyson delves into the concept of the 'new humanity' as envisioned by Paul in Ephesians. He contrasts the divisive traits of the 'old humanity' with the grace and unity found in Christ. Tyson discusses the challenges posed by modern polarization and proposes three practices to embody this new identity. By emphasizing the significance of baptism and communion, he calls for a church that reflects reconciliation and transformative love, positioning it as a necessary alternative in today's world.

The discussion highlights the church's commitment to the arts and its vision to nurture redemptive artists in New York City. Metrics reveal a thriving community with monthly gatherings of 250 creatives and 40 commissioned artists contributing to local culture. The impact of two creative conferences, bringing together 600 attendees, showcases a vibrant movement focused on mission and calling. A heartfelt thank you is extended for the generous support that has raised over six million dollars, translating into a flourishing artistic community.

Guest Guy Mason, founding pastor of City on a Hill in Australia, shares his inspiring journey to faith and ministry. He delves into the profound meaning of being 'the light of the world' and emphasizes the importance of undivided worship. Guy challenges believers to engage deeply with their community, highlighting unity as a powerful witness. He also discusses practical ways to shine Christ’s light through everyday acts and encourages self-examination for spiritual growth. Listeners are invited to embrace their calling and sow love and compassion in the world.