Church of the City New York

Explore the birth of the church at Antioch and its groundbreaking role in spreading the Gospel beyond Jewish communities. Discover the transformative impact of Barnabas and Saul on the early believers and how they navigated adversity with compassion. The discussion highlights the importance of ordinary people in church leadership and collective faith over charismatic figures. Engaging stories illustrate the power of encouragement and mentorship, while emphasizing the potential of urban churches to empower individuals and renew their communities.

This Sunday, Pastor Suzy Silk continued our series through the Book of Acts, The Fifth Act, with a message from Acts 10 and 11 on the radical, history-altering gift of the Holy Spirit for all believers. In one of the most pivotal moments in the Early Church, we witness the Spirit of God falling not only on the Jewish believers, but also on Gentiles, revealing that salvation through Jesus is truly available to all. We are living in the fulfillment of what generations of believers only hoped for: the Spirit poured out on all flesh, making the unclean clean, and drawing people from every nation into the household of God.

Pastor Keithen Schwahn dives into Acts 9:36-43, sharing the remarkable story of Tabitha, a beloved disciple whose resurrection exemplifies risk-taking in faith. The discussion touches on the struggle for identity and reputation in New York City, highlighting mental health issues linked to social validation. Inspiring stories of healing and faith emerge, showcasing the power of divine intervention. Emphasizing the role of women in early Christianity, the conversation encourages overcoming disappointment and advocating for the marginalized through acts of generosity.

Tim Brown, a passionate pastor at Church of the City New York, dives deep into the powerful conversion of Saul. He explores Saul's dramatic transformation from a persecutor of Christians to a devoted apostle through his encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus. The discussion delves into the importance of personal journeys of faith and the dangers of creating a God that fits our ideals. Brown emphasizes divine intervention, community support, and the pivotal role of the Holy Spirit in facilitating real transformation.

Discover the transformative story of Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch, emphasizing guidance and faith. Hear powerful modern testimonies from New York City that mirror biblical encounters. Explore how the Holy Spirit empowers ordinary believers to cross cultural divides while sharing the gospel. Gain insights on engaging in meaningful faith conversations and the importance of community mentorship in understanding Scripture. Embrace a missional approach to discipleship and witness the inclusivity of the Christian faith.

Pastor Jon Tyson shares insights from his trip to the Hebrides, calling for a renewed sense of hope based on Psalm 126. He discusses the powerful themes of restoration and joy, emphasizing the importance of community in faith. Personal stories highlight the liberation from past traumas leading to renewed identities. Challenges of building a church community in New York City and the engagement of youth are explored. The conversation also touches on miraculous healings and the revival of dreams, inspiring listeners to seek divine transformation.

Annie F. Downs, a New York Times bestselling author and teaching pastor, dives into the early church's pivotal moments in Acts 6. She highlights the importance of spirit-filled leadership, sharing how prayer and community can transform challenges into opportunities. With personal anecdotes, she explores the fruits of the Spirit, emphasizing love and patience in daily interactions. Annie also reflects on the value of discerning feedback and cultivating relationships, encouraging listeners to embody hope and kindness in their lives.

Explore the powerful concept of witnessing in the Book of Acts as early believers demonstrate unwavering commitment to the Gospel. Discover how the Holy Spirit empowers individuals to boldly proclaim their faith and share Jesus' teachings. Reflect on the importance of making life choices that align with spiritual convictions rather than societal expectations. Delve into the transient nature of earthly existence and find inspiration from Christian martyrs who faced adversity with courage. Embrace the call to witness and ignite a transformative journey of faith.

Pastor Keithen Schwahn delves into the story of Ananias and Sapphira, serving as a cautionary tale about honesty in the church. He explores the early church's radical generosity and the importance of community. The discussion highlights the cultural shifts in faith, particularly among younger generations, and the need for vigilance against hypocrisy. The deeper meanings of the second commandment challenge listeners to reflect on their relationship with God's character. Ultimately, the conversation encourages embracing a transformative faith for genuine community living.

Discover how the Early Church, led by Peter and John, responded to threats with unified prayer, standing firm in their faith. Explore the journey of William Carey, whose missionary work in India exemplified resilience amid hardships. The discussion also highlights the significance of prayer in confronting spiritual resistance, particularly in modern workplace challenges. Gain insights into maintaining faithfulness over fear and the transformative role of the Holy Spirit in personal growth and community support.