Church of the City New York

John Mark Comer, a best-selling author and pastor well-versed in spiritual formation, shares profound insights on cultivating gentleness and humility in our lives. He discusses the cultural burnout many face and how the gentle heart of Jesus offers true rest. Comer highlights the significance of knowing the Father through the Son, encouraging listeners to embrace Jesus' meekness. He also warns against modern societal pressures that promote anger and pride, urging a deeper spiritual formation through inward change. His message invites all to meditate on Jesus' character for transformation.

Pastor Jon delves into the concept of forming a unified community from diverse, divided backgrounds. He emphasizes the transformative power of Jesus in reshaping identity and belonging. Using Ephesians, he reveals how the church can redefine status through inclusion. Jon shares his personal story of alienation, illustrating the comfort of belonging. He urges Christians to prioritize their faith-based identity, providing practical steps for unity. Ultimately, he calls for the church to shine as a beacon of peace in a fractured world.

Pastor Suzy Silk explores the Church as the Family of God, highlighting the invitation for everyone to join, regardless of background. She breaks down how one enters this family through receiving, rebirth, and adoption, emphasizing faith over bloodline. Suzy discusses the profound identity and benefits believers gain, such as intimate access to God and heavenly inheritance. The culture of love, care, and responsibility within this diverse family is stressed, along with the imperative to welcome all new and returning members with open arms.

Pastor Jon explores the Church as the Bride of Christ, revealing the Bible as a profound love story. He discusses the deep longing for love underlying New York City's ambition, contrasting cultural ideas of earning love with the truth of divine affection. The conversation touches on Israel's betrayal and God's relentless pursuit, leading to Christ as the sacrificial bridegroom. Jon emphasizes sanctification as preparation for a union with Christ, inviting listeners to respond to God's love by embracing their identity as His beloved.

Pastor Jon explores Jesus as the Good Shepherd, highlighting the importance of true leadership in the church. He critiques the role of leaders in a shifting culture, emphasizing the need for moral conviction and biblical grounding. The conversation includes challenges from false teachers and the dangers of isolation, advocating for a supportive community. Furthermore, the speaker underscores the genuine responsibilities of church leaders, drawing parallels to Christ-like care. Ultimately, the dialogue calls for accountability and compassion in church dynamics.

Pastor Jon addresses the relevance of the church amid modern critiques, emphasizing its role as a vital community. He shares personal insights into the struggles and beauty of faith within a dysfunctional family. The podcast dives into the essence of the church as a covenant community dedicated to God's mission, highlighting key principles like faithful preaching. It also honors the quiet influence of saints and the transformative power of church engagement, encouraging listeners to actively participate and cultivate hope in a challenging world.

Pastor Ralph Castillo, a dedicated leader in the Church of the City, delivers profound insights on finishing well, drawing from the Apostle Paul's experiences in Acts. He emphasizes the importance of commitment and endurance amidst life's challenges. Ralph reflects on Paul's unwavering dedication to his mission, urging listeners to anchor themselves in Christ and embrace selflessness in service. The conversation also touches on the spiritual connection of Jesus within the church, reminding us of His presence and support in our journeys.

This week, Pastor Suzy Silk continued our Summer sermon series, The Fifth Act, with a sermon on Acts 18 and the ministry of Priscilla and Aquila in the Early Church. By studying their twenty year ministry journey with Paul and other disciples, God shows us that we are not meant to do life or ministry alone. We must ask God to help us be fruitful disciples that lay down our lives to see Him glorified, and faithfully carry the Gospel wherever we go. 

This week, guest pastor, Ben Stuart, continued our sermon series on The Fifth Act by preaching on Acts 19 and the impact of Paul’s ministry in Ephesus. Paul’s time in Ephesus invites us to ask: how does the Gospel take root and expand in a powerful and influential city—and how can we mirror that in New York? When we give God our unrivaled affections, His Gospel goes out in power. Pastor Ben encouraged us to release idols we cling to for comfort and control through confession and repentance, and allow our delight in God to transform our lives and impact the world around us.

Tim Brown, a passionate pastor, dives into Paul's experience in Athens, drawing intriguing parallels to New York City’s vibrant yet fractured culture. He tackles the challenges Christians face today, such as secularism and technological distractions. Brown advocates for compassionate evangelism, emphasizing authentic connections and respectful conversations. He also explores modern idolatry, warning against elevating good pursuits to ultimate status. Ultimately, he highlights the transformative power of the Gospel and the importance of viewing the city through God’s eyes.